Principal Estimator

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA); New York (NY); On-site; USD 149,000 - 187,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Commuting transportation pass

Comprehensive health coverage

Pension plans / retirement savings

Employee discounts

Job summary

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) seeks a Principal Estimator (DSO) to lead estimating strategy within Delivery/DSO, reporting to the Chief Estimator.

The role directs the development of estimating standards, leads the implementation and update of computerized estimating tools, and manages staff performance across bid analysis and cost estimation for large capital projects. Telework is allowed one day per week.

Qualifications

• Develops and implements estimating standards and procedures.
• Provides direction and methodology to estimating personnel.
• Maintains and updates computerized estimating tools.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements estimating standards and procedures, provides direction and methodology to all estimating personnel, administers and plans organization and control of all bid estimates.
• Formulates policy and directs the implementation of all estimating tools, their maintenance and updates.
• Reviews the market to evaluate the latest estimating system and its applicability.
• Tracks progress of Senior Estimators and other staff in estimate preparation, bid analyses, and evaluations.
• Ensures estimates detail for all design stages and accurate pricing data from contractors and suppliers.
• Reviews design documents to receive accurate pricing and ensure value.
• Ensures complete plan review and full project scope in estimates.
• Provides training and career development for senior and junior estimators.

Skills

Estimating standards

Communication skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Finance/Statistics/Math/Construction or related field

Tools

Computerized estimating tools

Job description

Hours Of Work

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or as required (7.5 HR/ DAY)

Description

JOB TITLE: Principal Estimator (DSO)

Agency

Construction & Development

Dept/Div

Delivery/DSO

Reports To

Chief Estimator

WORK LOCATION

2 Broadway

Hours Of Work

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or as required (7.5 HR/ DAY)

JOB FAMILY

CON

GRADE

007

Salary Range

$149,247 to $186,559

Deadline

Open Until Filled

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

MTA Construction & Development reserves the right to remove this posting before the application deadline.

Agency Mission

MTA Construction & Development (C&D) is responsible for the planning, development, and execution of all capital construction projects across the MTA region. Through centralized oversight and management of the MTA’s $64 billion Capital Program, C&D ensures the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure projects that support the region’s vast transportation network. As part of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the largest transportation network in North America, C&D plays a key role in modernizing and expanding services that support 15.3 million residents across New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. C&D is committed to delivering safe, innovative, and cost-effective capital projects that enhance the customer experience and strengthen the reliability and resilience of the MTA system.

Telework

This position is eligible for telework, which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Job Summary

The Principal Estimator has broad authority for the decision-making, staffing, and budget for the estimator's functional area of responsibility. The incumbent has decision-making authority over the estimator's functional area of responsibility within broadly defined policies and objectives, including wide latitude in considering plans, priorities, and processes to achieve goals. The person in this role makes policy and procedural changes for their functional area of responsibility in consultation and has responsibility for the overall strategy and approach made in consultation with the Chief Estimator.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements estimating standards and procedures, provides direction and methodology to all estimating personnel, administers and plans organization and control of all bid estimates.
• Formulates the policy and directs all computerized estimating tools' implementation, maintenance, and update.
• Review the market to evaluate the latest computerized estimating system and determine its applicability.
• Tracks Senior Estimators and other estimator staff progress and estimate preparation, bid analyses, and consultant estimate evaluations.
• Ensure the staff prepares estimates with the proper level of detail for all design stages, such as conceptual, schematic design, design development, and construction documents, including detailed take-offs and estimated costs of all materials, labor, and equipment.
• Charged with reviewing design documents for pertinent information to receive accurate pricing from contractors and suppliers and ensure acceptable value.
• Ensures the complete review of plans and drawings, identifies omissions, and ensures appropriate accounting in the overall estimate packages represents the full scope of the project.
• Provide training and career development for senior and entry-level estimators.

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Statistics, Mathematics, Construction or Project Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

Must have a minimum of sixteen (16) years of related experience.

Must have a minimum of ten (10) years in a management or supervisory role and/or project manager role in a large, multi-faceted organization.

Competencies

• Certified Professional Estimator - ASPE or Associate Estimating Professional Certification desirable.

Alternative Delivery Experience Preferred.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated building relationships and working collaboratively with stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
• Must have focus and ability to deliver results, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Must be a proven leader as a change agent and creative/innovative thinker with the ability to align business goals with solutions to drive process improvements.
• Must possess excellent team-building, listening, problem-solving, and prioritization skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction costs and budgets and assisted in developing a project schedule.
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction practices, techniques, and equipment.
• Familiarity with analyzing requirement data to develop material and cost estimates for large projects.
• Proficiency in mathematics, statistics, and data analysis.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents.

Comprehensive Benefits & Total Rewards Package

Transportation & Financial Benefits

• Commuting Made Easy – Enjoy a complimentary MTA transportation pass, plus access to tax-advantaged commuter benefits to maximize your savings.
• Premium Health Coverage at Low Cost – Access high-quality individual, family, and domestic partner healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Secure Your Future – Build long-term financial security through pension plans and retirement savings accounts designed for eligible employees.

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous Time Away – Recharge with substantial paid time off and comprehensive holiday schedules that support your personal and family commitments.

Holistic Support Services

• Access our dedicated Work Life Services team and Office of the Chaplains unit for personal guidance and support when you need it most.

Professional Growth & Development

• Learning & Development Program – Advance your career through structured professional development opportunities, skills training, and leadership programs tailored to support your growth within the organization.
• Educational Investment – Pursue your career goals with in-house training and professional development, tuition reimbursement support, and partnerships with educational institutions.

Employee Experience & Community

• Employee Assistance Programs – Comprehensive support services to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and resources.
• Discounts & Perks – Take advantage of MTA employee discount programs offering savings on products and services.
• Connect & Belong – Join our vibrant Employee Resource Groups to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and contribute to an inclusive workplace culture.

Additional Information

Final salary is determined by experience, skill set, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve.

To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct.

Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are equal opportunity employers, including those with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.