Cost Estimating Analyst

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. Our 2,000+ employees tackle important national challenges, delivering successful and usable solutions in areas such as military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering. Our multidisciplinary teams work in a collaborative environment that fosters innovation through cross-fertilization of ideas.

About the role

The Cost Estimating Analyst 2 will support estimating and pricing activities, reporting to the Estimating and Pricing lead while also assisting the proposal team. This role involves understanding customer solicitations, gathering accurate cost estimates, and supporting the proposal team through the management review process. You will collaborate closely with functional teams including Engineering, Procurement, Program Management, and Contracts.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, evaluate, coordinate, prepare, and support cost proposals for government and commercial customers.
• Coordinate the collection and accumulation of cost input from cross-functional departments.
• Support consolidation and pressure-testing of basis of estimates (BoEs) across all elements of cost (Labor, Material, Travel/Other Direct Costs, Subcontracts) for accuracy and completeness.
• Research and analyze historical data, developing cost models to support proposal efforts and validate functional estimates.
• Assess estimating techniques and historical actuals documentation.
• Evaluate Bill of Materials (BOMs), select appropriate pricing methods (e.g., purchase order history, vendor quotes), and ensure all quotes are recent.
• Consolidate cost estimates in pricing tool/ERP system.
• Generate cost volume, financial analyses, and ad hoc support as needed.
• Ensure adherence to Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), certified cost and pricing compliance (TINA), and internal policies for estimating, proposal preparation, review, compliance, submission, and updates.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, finance, or a related discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in cost estimating or a related field.
• Ability to communicate and present cost estimating information to leadership.
• Experience bidding on different contract types (FFP, FPIF, CPFF, CPIF, T&M).
• Excellent communication and analytical skills.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to ensure bids are completed on schedule.
• Proficient in handling multiple projects simultaneously.
• Self-starter capable of working independently and in a team environment.

Security Clearance

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret government security clearance.

Pay

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $75,000.00–$156,000.00. Individual pay is determined by work location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Benefits

Draper supports work-life balance through workplace flexibility, employee clubs (e.g., photography, yoga), health and finance workshops, off-site social events, and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.