Senior Lead Estimator (Cost Estimator V)

ASLPM; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading estimating firm is seeking a highly experienced Senior Lead Estimator to manage estimating functions for large-scale infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have over 20 years of experience, particularly in aviation-related mega projects, and be adept at cost management, team leadership, and negotiations. This onsite role in Los Angeles offers the chance to lead a dynamic team and drive successful project outcomes through effective estimating practices.

Qualifications

• 20 years of estimating experience, particularly in mega projects over $1 billion.
• Proven track record in aviation and large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of Progressive Design-Build and Construction Manager at Risk methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate cost estimates for various scopes of work.
• Lead and mentor estimating teams, ensuring quality and accuracy.
• Coordinate reporting cycles and communicate changes to stakeholders.

Skills

Estimating for mega projects

Change order negotiation

Leadership and mentorship

Cost reporting

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Senior Lead Estimator (Cost Estimator IV)

Location: Los Angeles, CA (Onsite)

Industry: Aviation and Airport / Construction

Area of Specialty: Program Controls / Infrastructure Projects / Aviation and Airport

We are seeking a highly experienced and accomplished Senior Lead Estimator to oversee and manage all estimating functions for complex, large‑scale mega projects, with a strong preference for aviation infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in all phases of project delivery, particularly Progressive Design‑Build and Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), and will be instrumental in developing, reviewing, and reconciling detailed cost estimates to ensure cost certainty and control. This role requires exceptional leadership, negotiation skills, and a proactive approach to cost reporting and change management.

What You’ll Do

Estimate Development and Management

• Develop and validate conceptual and detailed cost estimates across various scopes of work, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and completeness in all work products.
• Reconcile contractor, internal, and third‑party estimates, proactively establishing the basis for the owner's acceptance or rejection of proposals and documenting all negotiation records.
• Lead and manage other estimators and estimating teams, providing mentorship and training to subordinate personnel as needed.
• Accumulate, evaluate, and document historical cost data to continuously refine and improve future estimates.

Cost Review and Negotiation

• Review and analyze construction and design cost proposals, including change order requests, to assist with the determination of merit and equitable cost allowance for scope changes.
• Validate proposed material pricing against industry standards (e.g., R.S. Means) and other relevant pricing references.
• Scrutinize labor rates, markups, quantities, and labor productivity to ensure conformance to contract specifications and fair, reasonable representation of the scope.
• Review contract documents and modifications to accurately determine the scope of work and its associated costs.

Reporting and Coordination

• Establish and maintain a routine reporting cycle that clearly and proactively communicates estimate changes, the underlying causes, and their impact to stakeholders.
• Provide coordination and liaison with project management personnel and other estimating resources throughout the estimate development lifecycle.

What You’ll Bring

Experience and Expertise

• Twenty (20) years of general estimating experience, with a significant background in mega projects (projects exceeding $1 billion in value).
• Proven experience specifically on aviation and/or large‑scale infrastructure projects is highly preferred.
• In‑depth knowledge of alternative project delivery methods, including Progressive Design‑Build (PDB) and Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR).
• Demonstrated experience with complex estimate reconciliations and successful change order negotiations.

Technical Skills

• Expert proficiency with large‑scale, industry‑standard estimating software, databases, sources, and tools.
• Demonstrated proficiency in various estimating formats and standards.
• Proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Professional and Leadership Attributes

• Effective oral and written communication skills, capable of presenting complex cost data clearly to diverse audiences.
• Possess a self‑starter attitude with a results‑oriented focus.
• Demonstrate a proactive, firm, and respectful approach in estimate reconciliation efforts and change order processing.
• Ability to train, mentor, and lead estimating teams.