Chief Estimator

Chief estimator positions are classified as construction management jobs. Individuals in this position are responsible for managing and directing the organization's estimating functions. The chief estimator also directs all activities within the estimating department, including budgeting, staff scheduling and development, training, performance evaluations, and departmental goals. Additionally, they are responsible for the creation and implementation of department standard operating procedures and performance metrics. The chief estimator creates the bid schedule each week and delegates estimation jobs to other employees in the estimating department.The day-to-day responsibilities of the chief estimator include creation and review of requests for estimate evaluations, preparation of the weekly bid schedule, maintenance of bid estimates to ensure they are completed, review of all completed estimates prior to submission, cost analysis, and the creation and communication of departmental reports. Additionally, the chief estimator manages the schedules of the estimating team. Individuals in this position typically work full time in a business setting, although some overtime may be required depending on project and departmental workload.Chief estimator jobs usually require a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management or a related field, as well as five to seven years of relevant experience. Experience in management or supervisory positions is strongly preferred. Chief estimators must be familiar with government policies and regulations related to the industry. Excellent written and oral communication skills and attention to detail are a must. Good organizational and multitasking skills are required, and chief estimators should be familiar with basic office software.

As a Chief Estimator with 9+ years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

• Lead and manage the estimating team, overseeing the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and architects to review project plans, specifications, and contracts, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of estimates.
• Conduct comprehensive material takeoffs, analyze labor and equipment requirements, and apply industry-standard cost databases to determine project costs.
• Prepare detailed cost breakdowns, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor bids, and overhead expenses, to support project bidding and negotiation processes.

For a Chief Estimator, the following qualifications are required:

• The candidate should have a strong background in estimating for construction projects, including a deep understanding of various estimating techniques, cost analysis, and bidding processes.
• The candidate should possess a comprehensive understanding of construction materials, building codes, and industry standards.
• The candidate should be well-versed in using industry-standard estimating software, such as RSMeans, PlanSwift, or PriEst.
• The candidate must have excellent communication and negotiation skills to effectively interact with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

The role of Chief Estimator is crucial in overseeing the estimation process for construction projects in Australia. With over 9 years of experience, professionals in this field have several alternative career paths to consider. Here are four options:

• Construction Project Manager: A role that involves overseeing the entire construction process, including planning, budgeting, and coordination of resources.
• Quantity Surveyor: A position focused on assessing and managing costs related to construction projects, including estimating, budgeting, and cost control.
• Construction Contracts Manager: A role that involves managing contracts, ensuring compliance, and resolving any contractual issues that may arise during the construction process.
• Construction Cost Consultant: A position focused on providing expert advice and analysis on construction costs, including estimating, cost planning, and value engineering.

According to Google, the projected growth of the Chief Estimator position in Australia is promising. Market analysis indicates a consistent increase in demand for this role over the past 10 years. The job's expansion is evident in various sectors of the economy, such as construction, engineering, and infrastructure development. With Australia's booming construction industry and ambitious infrastructure projects planned for the future, the employment opportunities for Chief Estimators are expected to grow substantially. Based on current trends, the role of Chief Estimator is predicted to experience steady growth and secure a significant number of job openings in the coming years.