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Construction Cost Estimator

Role overview

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 3-5 years of experience in construction or cost estimating
  • Proficiency with cost estimating software (e.g., RSMeans, CostWorks, Sage Estimating)
  • Strong understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and labor requirements

Responsibilities

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for construction, renovation, demolition, and infrastructure projects
  • Review architectural, civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical plans to develop accurate quantity takeoffs
  • Analyze historical cost data, market trends, and contractor pricing to refine estimates
  • Develop cost models for conceptual, preliminary, and final design phases

Key facts

  • Remote from: United States
  • Full time
  • Mid-level (2-5 years)
  • English

Other skills

  • Analytical Thinking
  • Detail Oriented
  • Communication
  • Time Management

About the company

SWCA Environmental Consultants logo

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Environmental Services

SWCA is a 100% employee-owned environmental firm that offers comprehensive environmental planning, regulatory compliance, and natural and cultural resources management services. Our expanding team of professionals combines scientific expertise with in-depth knowledge of permitting and compliance protocols to achieve technically sound, cost-effective solutions for a full spectrum of environmental projects throughout the U.S. and its territories.

Company details

Company typeLarge
IndustryEnvironmental Services
Company size1001 - 5000

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Job description

Overview:

Please note that this position is contingent upon the successful award of a contract currently under bid.

 

Global in service but local in approach, Nisga'a Tek is committed to high-quality service to those who defend us. Nisga'a Tek ensures mission assurance and execution for customers and warfighters. Providing intelligence, IT, cyber security, training, logistics, administrative, acquisition, and background investigation services. 

 

Summary:

The Construction Cost Estimator provides professional cost estimation services for construction, renovation, and maintenance projects. The role ensures accurate, defensible cost projections that support planning, budgeting, and procurement decisions. The estimator analyzes drawings, specifications, facility data, and site conditions, and prepares detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and contingencies. This position directly supports project managers, engineers, and leadership by delivering reliable financial assessments for strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities:

Essential Job Functions:

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for construction, renovation, demolition, and infrastructure projects.
  • Review architectural, civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical plans to develop accurate quantity takeoffs.
  • Analyze historical cost data, market trends, and contractor pricing to refine estimates.
  • Develop cost models for conceptual, preliminary, and final design phases.
  • Assist in developing independent government cost estimates (IGCEs) for acquisitions.
  • Maintain cost databases, unit price references, and estimating tools.
  • Coordinate with engineering, maintenance, and project management staff to identify scope requirements and constraints.
  • Perform risk assessments and create cost contingencies and escalation factors.
  • Support budget planning by providing cost inputs, alternatives, and value‑engineering options.
  • Evaluate contractor proposals to validate pricing, identify discrepancies, and recommend adjustments.
  • Assist with scheduling inputs such as phasing, critical path considerations, and resource allocation.
  • Prepare written reports summarizing assumptions, methodologies, and cost conclusions.
  • Ensure all estimates comply with federal, agency, and industry standards.
Qualifications:

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

  • Ability to interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, building codes, and engineering reports.
  • Strong understanding of construction means, methods, materials, and labor requirements.
  • Proficiency with cost estimating software (e.g., RSMeans, CostWorks, Sage Estimating).
  • Skill in quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, parametric estimating, and comparative pricing.
  • Ability to communicate technical cost information clearly to non‑technical audiences.
  • Attention to detail and strong analytical reasoning.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Understanding of federal IGCE requirements and basic acquisition principles (helpful but not mandatory).

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • At least 3–5 years of experience in construction or cost estimating.
  • Experience reviewing construction documents and producing independent estimates.
  • Primarily office‑based, with occasional site visits as needed.
  • Ability to work on a computer for extended periods and review technical drawings.
  • Works under the general supervision of a project manager, engineering supervisor, or facilities/utility program manager.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) – International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association
  • Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) – American Society of Professional Estimators
  • Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE) Certifications:
  • Cost Estimating Professional (CEP)
  • Certified Cost Technician (CCT)
  • Certified Cost Professional (CCP)
  • RSMeans Cost Estimating Certification
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • OSHA 30 Construction

 

Pay and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $100,000.00 to $130,000.00 annually. 

 

At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

 

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Marcus Rivera

Chief Revenue Officer

m.rivera@company.com
linkedin.com/in/marcusrivera
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