Chief Estimator

The positions of Chief Estimators are classified as construction management positions. The individuals in this position are accountable for directing and managing the estimating function of their organization. The chief estimator is also responsible for all the activities of the department of estimating, which includes budgeting, scheduling staff and development, training, evaluations, and goals of the department. In addition, they are accountable for the development and implementation of the department's standard operating procedures and performance indicators. The chief estimator develops the weekly bid schedule and delegates estimation tasks to employees of the department of estimation.

The day-to-day duties for the chief estimator are the creation and review of request for evaluations of estimates, the preparation for the bidding schedule each week, the maintenance of bid estimates to make sure they are complete, review of all estimates that have been completed before the submission date, cost analysis and the preparation and distribution of reports for the department. In addition the chief estimator is responsible for managing his or her schedule for the estimation team. The people in this position generally are employed full-time in a corporate setting however some overtime might be necessary based on the the workload of the department and project.

The jobs of chief estimator usually require an undergraduate degree in construction management, civil engineering or another related field along with between five and seven years' experience in the field. Experience in supervisory or management jobs is highly preferred. Chief estimators should be acquainted with the policies and regulations of the government in the field. Effective oral and written communication skills as well as focus on detail are essential. Excellent multitasking and organizational skills are essential chief estimators to have a basic understanding of office software.

As a Chief Estimator with 0-3 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

• Conducting cost analysis and preparing estimates for construction projects.
• Collaborating with project managers and architects to review project plans and specifications.
• Gathering and analyzing data to determine material, labor, and equipment costs.
• Assisting in the preparation of bid packages and proposals for potential clients.

For a Chief Estimator job role, 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. This knowledge is necessary to accurately estimate project costs and identify potential risks or challenges.
• The candidate should be well-versed in using industry-standard estimating software, such as RSMeans, PlanSwift, or ProEst. This proficiency enables efficient and accurate cost estimation, resource allocation, and project scheduling.
• The candidate must have excellent communication and negotiation skills to effectively interact with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

The role of a Chief Estimator is crucial in driving accurate cost estimations for construction projects. For professionals with 0-3 years of experience in the United Kingdom, here are following alternative roles to consider:

• Junior Quantity Surveyor: A role that involves assisting in cost estimation, budgeting, and contract management for construction projects.
• Project Coordinator: A position focused on supporting project managers in coordinating schedules, resources, and budgets for successful project execution.
• Estimating Assistant: A role that entails providing support to senior estimators by collecting project data, analyzing costs, and preparing estimates.
• Cost Engineer: A position centered around analyzing project costs, monitoring budgets, and implementing cost control measures to optimize project financials.

The role of Chief Estimator in the United Kingdom is expected to experience significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a strong upward trend in demand for professionals in this position. The increasing complexity of construction projects and the need for accurate cost estimation drive this growth. The employment opportunities for Chief Estimators are expected to rise steadily in the future, thanks to ongoing investment in infrastructure development and a thriving construction industry. With these positive trends, the job outlook for Chief Estimators in the United Kingdom is highly promising.