Cost Estimator - security clearance required

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

About the role

The Cost Estimator will support related construction, design/build, and architecture and engineering projects in Washington, DC. Responsibilities include reviewing technical requirements, drawings, plans, and materials to provide detailed cost estimates.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes drawings and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Assesses cost effectiveness of products, projects, or services, tracking actual costs relative to contract award costs as the project develops.
• Consults with clients, vendors, personnel in other departments, or construction foremen to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues.
• Confers with engineers, architects, owners, contractors, and subcontractors on changes and adjustments to cost estimates.
• Prepares estimates used by management for planning, organizing, and scheduling work.
• Prepares estimates for use in selecting vendors or subcontractors.
• Identifies and quantifies cost factors, such as production time, raw material, equipment, and labor expenses.
• Travels to job sites to gather information on materials needed, labor requirements, and other factors.
• Reads drawings and technical documents to prepare estimates.
• Collaborates with engineers, architects, owners, and contractors on estimates.
• Uses sophisticated computer software to calculate estimates.
• Evaluates a product’s cost effectiveness or profitability.
• Recommends ways to make a product more cost effective or profitable.
• Prepares estimates for the government agent and other Program Managers.
• Assists in developing cost documents such as project management plans for the duration of the project.
• Responds to cost needs for the duration of the project.
• Accurately predicts the cost, size, and duration of future construction and manufacturing projects.
• Analyzes inputs to determine how much time, money, and labor a project needs and its profitability.
• Uses computer software, including databases, to simulate building construction.
• Calculates the cost of the construction phase for which the contractor is responsible.
• Identifies direct costs, such as raw materials and labor, and sets a project timeline.

Requirements

• Active TOP SECRET clearance.
• Bachelor’s degree in economics, mathematics, building science, statistics, construction management, production management, accounting, finance, or engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a planner/scheduler on construction projects.
• Industry-recognized certification such as Certified Cost Professional (CCP), Earned Value Professional (EVP), Planning and Scheduling Professional (PSP), or Project Management Institute-Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP).
• Excellent IT and math skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong project management skills.
• Keen sense of business acumen and awareness.
• Understanding of data confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to organize work and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of regulations, price trends, and exchange rates in building construction and associated trades.
• Experience using industry software products for cost estimating, including TS Means and CTC.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company stock purchase options at a discount.
• Deferred compensation plan or Executive Deferral Plan (for eligible employees).
• Unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) for full-time salaried/exempt employees.
• Seven paid holidays and caregiver leave.
• Additional rewards for certain roles, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonuses, and stock.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $115,000.00 to $170,000.00. Individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Job posted on May 08, 2025. Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.