Cost Estimator

Cherokee Federal

About The Position

This position requires a secret clearance or the ability to obtain a secret clearance A cost estimator is a professional who analyzes and determines the projected expenses associated with a particular project, product, or service. Their role is to assess various factors such as materials, labor, equipment, and overhead costs to provide accurate estimations of the total expenditures involved. Cost estimators utilize their expertise and industry knowledge to evaluate project specifications, create detailed cost breakdowns, and identify potential risks and cost-saving opportunities. Their work is essential in helping businesses and organizations make informed decisions regarding budgeting, pricing, and resource allocation, ensuring projects are financially viable and successful.

Requirements

A minimum of 7-10 years’ experience in cost estimating for design and construction facility projects.
Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.
Provide demonstrated performance of work in the following areas:
At least 5 years of relevant government facility design/construction cost estimating experience
Knowledge and familiarity with related fields of work such as electrical, mechanical, structural, environmental, and civil engineering sufficient to create either high-level budgetary estimates or specific line-item estimates.
Knowledge of cost estimating software (e.g. PACES, MCASES MII or MCASES Gold)
Strong mathematical skills are essential for cost estimators, as they perform complex calculations involving quantities, measurements, and unit costs. They should be comfortable with formulas, equations, and statistical analysis to provide precise cost estimates.
Effective communication is vital for cost estimators to interact with clients, project managers, and other stakeholders. They should be able to clearly articulate their estimates, explain cost breakdowns, and present their findings in a concise and understandable manner.
Cost estimators often encounter challenges and uncertainties during the estimation process. They need to be adept at problem-solving, finding creative solutions, and adapting their estimates based on changing circumstances or constraints.
Cost estimators must be skilled at managing their time efficiently to meet project deadlines. They need to balance multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and deliver accurate estimates within the required timeframes.
Cost estimators often collaborate with other professionals, such as architects, engineers, and contractors. They should possess strong teamwork skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, share information, and integrate input from various stakeholders.
A cost estimator should have a mindset focused on cost optimization. They should actively seek opportunities to identify potential cost-saving measures, propose alternative options, and suggest value engineering ideas to ensure projects are completed within budgetary constraints.
Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal
Must be a US citizen
Must be able to pass a National Agency Check Investigations (NACI)/SF85 background check and drug screen

Responsibilities

Creates detailed line-item (Class 3) cost estimates, reviews work orders, programming documents, design documents, or similar project documentation.
Knowledge of cost estimating software. (e.g. PACES, MCASES MII or MCASES Gold)
Performs economic analyses as required for FSRM projects, or works with AF Lifecycle Management Center or Architect/Engineer contractor staff on data required to complete an EA.
The primary responsibility of a cost estimator is to provide accurate cost estimates for a project. They use their expertise and knowledge of industry standards to calculate the anticipated expenses, including material costs, labor costs, equipment costs, subcontractor fees, and overhead expenses. They may utilize cost estimating software or create detailed spreadsheets to break down costs item by item.
Cost estimators conduct research to gather data on material prices, labor rates, equipment costs, and other relevant factors. They stay updated with market trends, supplier prices, and industry benchmarks to ensure their estimates reflect current market conditions.
Cost estimators determine the quantities of materials, equipment, and labor required for a project. They read and interpret architectural and engineering drawings, perform take-offs, and use measurement tools to quantify the amount of resources needed accurately.
Cost estimators evaluate potential risks and uncertainties that may impact the project's cost. They consider factors such as market volatility, unforeseen circumstances, and changes in regulations to incorporate appropriate contingencies in their estimates.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned