Procurement Cost Estimator (Department of State)

ZipRecruiter; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm is seeking a Procurement Cost Estimator to support the Department of State. This role involves cost estimation, vendor evaluation, and budget management, requiring strong analytical and communication skills. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in government projects and a relevant degree.

Benefits

Paid leave

Flexible work

Tuition reimbursement

Qualifications

• At least 7 years of experience as a cost estimator, financial analyst, or similar role.
• Experience with IT procurement, cost estimation, and price evaluation.
• Understanding of federal procurement, budget structures, and compliance regulations.

Responsibilities

• Building Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs) for procurements.
• Reviewing vendor estimates and evaluating proposed prices.
• Preparing cost analysis reports and documenting estimates.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Management, Engineering, or related field

Master’s degree or certifications in cost estimation, project management, or related areas

Tools

CFCM (Certified Federal Contract Manager)

CCEA (Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst)

CGFM (Certified Government Financial Manager)

DAWIA Cost Estimating Certification

Job description

Procurement Cost Estimator - Department of State

The Position:

We are looking for eager, driven candidates with experience in people management, communication, facilitation, problem-solving, and analysis to guide our teams in developing impactful solutions for our Federal clients at the Department of State. The Procurement Cost Estimator will play a key role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of budget estimates, reviewing and validating vendor cost proposals, and supporting the management of budgets. Initially, this individual will work on IT products and services but may expand to other procurement types. Key responsibilities include:

1. Cost Estimation & Analysis:

• Building Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs) for procurements and analyses.
• Conducting cost estimations and providing recommendations for projects within the scope of federal initiatives.
• Analyzing cost proposals, vendor estimates, and budget reports for accuracy, completeness, and reasonableness.
• Ensuring cost data aligns with project objectives and operational goals.

Vendor Cost Review & Evaluation:

• Reviewing vendor estimates, evaluating proposed prices against market benchmarks.
• Collaborating with vendors and internal teams to clarify pricing and ensure costs reflect scope, quality, and standards.

Budget Support:

• Supporting budget development, monitoring, and management by providing cost estimates.
• Identifying potential cost overruns and proposing strategic solutions to stay within budget.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Preparing cost analysis reports, insights on financial trends, and cost-effective recommendations.
• Documenting all estimates transparently for stakeholders and clients.

Collaboration & Consultation:

• Working with project managers, finance, procurement teams to align estimates with project goals.
• Engaging with senior leadership to review and adjust cost strategies.

The Ideal Candidate:

At Censeo, we value unique perspectives, enthusiasm, and a passion for shaping client insights and workplace culture. Our team’s success is rooted in innovation, creative problem-solving, and collaboration. Qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Management, Engineering, or related field.
• Master’s degree or certifications in cost estimation, project management, or related areas.
• At least 7 years of experience as a cost estimator, financial analyst, or similar role, preferably in government or large projects.
• Experience at the Department of State is strongly preferred.
• Experience with IT procurement, cost estimation, and price evaluation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Understanding of federal procurement, budget structures, and compliance regulations.

Certifications:

• CFCM (Certified Federal Contract Manager)
• CCEA (Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst)
• CGFM (Certified Government Financial Manager)
• DAWIA Cost Estimating Certification

The Company:

Censeo Consulting Group, based in Washington D.C., specializes in management consulting for public sector and non-profit clients. We focus on operational excellence, better outcomes, and cost reduction. Our culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a flat organizational structure where everyone’s voice matters.

The Location:

Our office is in downtown Washington D.C., with a hybrid work model offering flexibility for remote work and in-office collaboration. The city provides a vibrant environment for professionals, with easy access to meetings, social events, and city amenities.

The Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: $120,000 - $160,000 based on experience.
• Travel: 0-10%, may increase.
• Full-time, exempt position.
• Hybrid work schedule in Washington, D.C.

We offer competitive benefits including paid leave, flexible work, and tuition reimbursement. More info at our careers page.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.