JOB SUMMARY:

The Lead Cost Estimator is the lead project estimator who is responsible for preparing general and/or discipline estimates for capital cost projects. This position uses, develops and oversees the maintenance of estimating database development while providing technical and operational collaboration with a project team.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully. It is not an exhaustive list:

• Advanced knowledge of estimating large complex Engineering and Construction projects.
• Understands estimate types, classifications, and components.
• Knowledge and experience in quantity takeoffs, statistical analysis, life cycle analysis and management of personnel.
• Advanced understanding of current market pricing in related areas and knowledge of construction practices in the local work region
• Knowledge of construction methods and techniques in areas of specialization and have a general understanding of other disciplines.
• Generally familiar with engineering and construction codes and standards.
• Thorough understanding of cost index and escalation projection sources.
• Understands and contributes to risk and contingency assessments.
• Skilled in oral and written communications, including presentation skills and ability to address a group of supervisors.
• Capable of developing conceptual through detail cost estimates and leads estimate reviews and presentations.

Required Experience

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree with minimum of 5 years of related professional experience

  OR

• High School Diploma/GED with a minimum of 10 years of related professional experience

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Airport/aviation projects, including Alternative Delivery Projects, such as Design-Build, Design-Bid-Build, and/or Progressive Design-Build

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This is largely a sedentary role; however, some filing is required
• May involve extended periods of time in seated position and at a keyboard or workstation
• This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets and bend or stand as necessary

As the Lead Cost Estimator, you will:

• Plan, develop and present capital cost estimates for projects as defined by an agreed-upon scope that will be used to make key management decisions.
• Draft estimate plans through evaluation of scoping, pricing, quantification, changing order estimates, desired estimate type / quality and time / resources available.
• Conducts capital cost estimates that may be order of magnitude (OOM), conceptual or full detail estimates.
• Prepare cost studies utilizing historical data, statistical analysis, and cost and quantity comparisons.
• Innovate and develop new techniques as required to meet specific needs.
• Review design scope criteria and develop quantities for undefined scope assumptions in coordination with others.
• Participate in establishing pricing structures, valuation estimating, appraisal estimating to be applied to quantities for estimates.
• Obtains vendor information and lead the development of estimating databases for economic analysis which include operating costs, bid award analysis.
• Evaluate productivity and develop probable construction cost based on crew craft productivity.
• Prepare estimate basis and assumption documentation for cost-controlled budget.
• Perform cash flow analysis and extrapolate cost curves based on experience of scheduled-activities and cost correlation analysis.
• Perform and review escalation calculations.
• Identify risk items and assigns risk levels to portions of the project work,
• Identify measures to mitigate risk to the overall project.
• Establish format and content of summaries and reconciliations, including segregation of costs according to levels of confidence.
• Review estimates for completion and technical accuracy ensuing quality and alignment with project scope, schedule and execution plan.
• Take a lead role in estimate reviews and presentations.
• Interface with designated management personnel on specific sections of estimate presentations.

Required Skills