Description
Prepare detailed cost estimates for building and infrastructure projects to support bidding, budgeting, and project planning. Analyze plans and site conditions, solicit and level subcontractor pricing, and update estimates and cost reports throughout the project.
- • Analyze construction drawings, specifications, and addenda to develop quantity takeoffs and labor, material, equipment, and time estimates.
- • Track actual costs versus estimates during construction and recommend adjustments to maintain budget.
- • Collaborate with owners, vendors, project managers, and field superintendents to clarify scope and resolve estimate issues.
- • Coordinate with architects, engineers, and subcontractors on scope changes and estimate revisions.
- • Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates to support budgeting, scheduling, and bid strategies.
- • Develop trade packages and estimates to qualify and select subcontractors and suppliers.
- • Evaluate self-perform versus subcontract options and buyout strategies.
- • Produce cost reports, estimate summaries, and cash flow projections throughout the project.
- • Maintain a current database of subcontractors, suppliers, unit prices, and production rates.
- • Establish cost control, quantity tracking, and reporting procedures for preconstruction and construction phases.
- • Manage the bid process, solicit and level proposals, and lead pricing negotiations.
- • Perform value engineering and productivity studies to refine unit costs and reduce project costs.
- • Conduct site visits to verify conditions, logistics, utilities, and constraints affecting pricing.
- • Collect and analyze historical cost and production data to improve future estimates and benchmarks.
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Construction
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
