Senior Cost Estimator

ZipRecruiter; California; On-site; USD 220,000 - 227,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction management firm is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator with extensive rail and transit project experience. The role involves providing expert cost estimation, overseeing junior staff, and collaborating with project teams to ensure accurate financial assessments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction estimating and excellent decision-making skills.

Benefits

Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance

401k retirement plan with company matching

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Annual tuition assistance allowance

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years of professional experience in construction project cost estimating.
• Expertise in estimating architectural, heavy civil, structural, and utility elements for rail and transit projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed quantity take-offs across diverse construction systems.
• Develop comprehensive contractor-style cost estimates and prepare basis of estimate reports.
• Supervise and mentor assigned staff.

Skills

Leadership

Decision Making

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

On-Screen Takeoff

Microsoft Office

Primavera P6

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

https://kkcsinc.com/

Program Management | Construction Management

Kal Krishnan Consulting Services, Inc. (KKCS), a California Corporation, is a full-service construction management and program management organization. The firm has grown steadily in size and capability since its founding in 1987, and today employs more than 95 professionals in our regional offices. KKCS has attracted a full complement of highly experienced, talented, and dedicated professionals to its staff who bring a collaborative, integrated team approach to our clients’ projects.

KKCS experience includes work on rail, airports, ports, freeways, schools, universities, facilities, water, wastewater, bridges, and roadways. Our client list includes federal agencies, state agencies, regional agencies, and private clients. KKCS has broad experience and expertise in engineering design, project management, and project controls services.

The KKCS culture is rooted in the ideals of integrity, safety, , and ethical business practices, which is a commitment shared by all KKCS employees throughout our offices and project sites around the country. We have a positive impact on the communities we serve by not only improving infrastructure, but also providing service at a relatively low cost to the taxpayer. This allows more money to be available to the agencies we serve, which will inevitably be reinvested in the community. At KKCS, we value the individual employee and the importance of their contributions toward quality improvement.

Senior Cost Estimator – Rail & Transit

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary Range: $220,000 - $227,000 annually
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees
• 401k retirement plan with company matching contribution
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Company-paid life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) benefits
• Company-paid long-term (LTD) insurance
• Annual tuition assistance allowance for employees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

KKCS is seeking a seasoned Senior Cost Estimator with extensive experience supporting rail and transit projects in Downtown Los Angeles, CA. This full-time, project office-based role requires an individual capable of providing expert technical insight, resources, and guidance in cost estimation efforts under the supervision of the project’s Deputy Executive Director. The selected candidate will produce accurate cost estimates by analyzing financial requirements, materials, labor, and timelines for complex projects delivered via alternative procurement methods. Additionally, the Senior Cost Estimator will oversee, and review cost estimates prepared by junior team members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assess project scope using drawings, specifications, and existing site conditions throughout design and construction phases.
• Conduct detailed quantity take-offs across diverse construction systems and materials.
• Determine and apply applicable labor rates, taxes, and insurance expenses for precise cost assessments.
• Develop comprehensive contractor-style cost estimates and prepare clear, well-documented basis of estimate reports.
• Ensure cost estimates are thorough and account for potential risk factors and uncertainties.
• Review designs and specifications for budget efficiency and recommend cost-effective alternatives where applicable.
• Generate detailed, market-driven owner’s cost estimates addressing scope modifications, delays, and budget impacts.
• Collaborate with Engineers and Project Managers to analyze change orders and validate control budgets.
• Maintain ongoing awareness of contract details, project issues, and stakeholder involvement.
• Engage in contract discussions with clients, contractors, and other parties to address adjustments and claims.
• Supervise and mentor assigned staff, ensuring development and performance benchmarks are achieved.
• Facilitate client and third-party reconciliations for cost estimates.
• Prepare technical reports, project status updates, and detailed proposals.
• Manage and coordinate the preparation of estimates for various project sizes to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Offer proactive leadership for the Project Controls – Cost Estimating team, driving strategic process improvements.
• Administer and oversee the cost estimating processes and procedures to ensure consistency and quality.
• Fulfill additional duties and contribute to special assignments as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Applied Science, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of professional experience in construction project cost estimating.
• Extensive background in estimating architectural, heavy civil, structural, and utility elements for rail and transit projects.
• Expertise in alternate delivery methods such as CMGC, CMAR, Progressive Design-Build, and Design-Build.
• Proven experience supporting complex, multi-year, and high-budget programs and projects.
• Proficiency in producing estimates from conceptual design through bid documents utilizing tools such as HCSS HeavyBid and/or Sage Timberline.
• Strong proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff software and Microsoft Officetools.
• Demonstrated competence in Primavera P6 for scheduling and project tracking.
• Ability to manage complex estimating assignments with minimal oversight and deliver accurate results.
• Effective decision-making capabilities, ensuring responsible management of company resources.
• Previous experience in contract negotiations is advantageous.

Qualifications:

• Familiarity with HCSS HeavyBidor comparable estimating platforms.
• Certification in estimating through AACEI or ASPE.
• Previous experience in a construction contractor estimating role is highly desirable.

KKCS is an equal opportunity employer encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.