Chief Estimator

The positions of Chief Estimators are categorized as jobs in construction management. 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 routine 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 making the bid calendar for 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 reports for the department. In addition the chief estimator is responsible for managing his or her schedule with 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 attention to the smallest details are essential. Excellent multitasking and organizational skills are essential and chief estimators must have a basic understanding of office software.

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

• Analyzing project plans, specifications, and requirements to determine project costs and timelines accurately.
• Collaborating with project managers and engineers to develop accurate cost estimates for labor, materials, and equipment.
• Conducting quantity takeoffs and preparing detailed cost estimates for bidding purposes.
• Assisting in the preparation of project budgets and cost control measures to ensure profitability and adherence to client requirements.

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 Chief Estimator is crucial in overseeing and managing the estimation process within the construction industry. For individuals with 0-3 years of work experience in the United States, several alternative roles are available to consider. Here are following options to explore:

• Project Coordinator: An entry-level role supporting project managers in organizing and coordinating construction projects, including scheduling, documentation, and communication.
• Cost Engineer: A position focused on analyzing and estimating project costs, including labor, materials, and equipment, to ensure accurate budgeting and cost control.
• Junior Quantity Surveyor: A role involved in measuring and estimating quantities of materials, preparing cost estimates, and assisting with contract administration and cost management.
• Estimating Technician: An entry-level position supporting senior estimators by gathering and analyzing data, preparing project estimates, and assisting in bid preparations.

The role of Chief Estimator in the United States has shown steady growth in the market over the past decade. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for Chief Estimators is projected to increase significantly. This can be attributed to the growing construction industry and the need for accurate cost estimates in various sectors. With the increasing number of infrastructure projects and the emphasis on cost-effective planning, the employment opportunities in this field are expected to multiply. As per Google's latest data points, the projected growth of this position remains strong, making it a promising career choice for individuals with expertise in estimating and construction management.