CSA Cost Engineer
This position will be based at the project site and reports directly to the Cost Manager or Project Manager, collaborating closely with Construction Managers and Superintendents.
About the role
The Cost Engineer will analyze project design and construction documents to determine project needs, review cost proposals, and prepare cost estimates for scope changes. While not discipline-specific, competency and expertise in both CSA and MEP are highly desired.
Responsibilities
- Setup and maintain job cost reports, including budgets, commitments, forecasts, yet-to-buys, contingencies, and spends.
- Track costs by bid package, field order, and specific category of change as defined by the client.
- Setup and maintain project indicators, including visual graphics.
- Work with subcontractors and equipment/material vendors to validate cost proposals.
- Monthly reconciliation of project cost reports.
- Interpret design documents, construction documents, and technical manuals to quantify materials required for construction.
- On-screen take-off of material quantities.
- Prepare and manage cost authorization packages.
- Summarize quantities of materials in an orderly fashion.
Requirements
- Minimum of two (2) years construction estimating experience.
- Specific experience in industrial and/or hi-tech semiconductor manufacturing projects is preferred.
- High School diploma or GED required.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent degree and/or equivalent field work experience required.
- Education background in materials and methods of construction.
- LEED Accredited Professional, or the ability to become accredited within eighteen (18) months preferred.
- Work schedule must be flexible to allow extended hours or off-shift work to accommodate changing construction schedule and sequences.
Skills
- Proficient in Windows and Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Teams), with a general understanding of working within a computer network.
- Experience with project management software such as Prolog, Procore, E-Builder, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, and Primavera Project Planner (P6).
- Experience with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks.
- Training in design and construction document reading, design specifications, survey theory, and techniques.
- Experience in organizing technical data in a neat and accurate method.
- Familiar with CSI specification system for construction.
- Thorough understanding of all aspects of construction.
- Highly developed visual observation and interpretation skills.
- Ability to work well and maintain a cooperative attitude through high-pressure situations.
- Excellent time-management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize work while frequently interrupted by phone calls and questions on work in progress.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills with an ability to develop strong interpersonal relationships.
- Ability to work closely with a variety of trade and craft people in a field work situation; patience and professionalism are essential.
- Strong team player with the ability to collaborate with various personnel within and across departments and at all levels of leadership.
Physical and Mental Requirements
- Standing/Walking/Sitting: Workday is a combination of standing, walking, and sitting. Must be able to climb stairs: 5% of day.
- Hands/Arms: Constant use of hands/fingers for mouse/keyboard/computer use.
- Sight: Visual acuity in near, mid, and far-range vision. Color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, hand/eye coordination.
- Hearing: Sufficient to hear conversational levels in person and over the telephone.
- Speech: Sufficient to make oneself heard in person, speak in front of groups, and be understood over the telephone.
- Lift/Carry: Up to 20 lbs. (e.g., computer/drawings).
- Bending/Twisting: Minimal.
- Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling: Minimal.
- Constant mental alertness, accuracy, and attention to detail required.
- Ability to work independently, make decisions, and follow through on all assignments.
- Use of creativity, independent judgment, and organizational and problem-solving skills to determine the best method to accomplish desired results.
- Ability to plan and organize work.
- Strong organizational and computer use skills.
- High level of competency to read/write/speak English, interpret construction-related documentation, and communicate with coworkers.
Pay
$85,000 - $120,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Competitive pay and advancement opportunities.
- Ongoing professional training and development.
- Comprehensive benefits, including free primary care for you and your family through dedicated clinics, health insurance, paid time off, and a generous retirement plan.
- A culture rooted in inclusion, collaboration, and respect.
About Us
Hoffman Construction is a forward-thinking, self-performing builder specializing in technically complex, sustainable projects across advanced technology, mission critical, life sciences, healthcare, higher education, and commercial markets. Since 1922, we’ve grown from entrepreneurial roots into a multi-billion-dollar, employee-owned enterprise—now a dynamic family of companies with a national presence and a legacy of excellence. At Hoffman Construction, your potential has room to grow. Whether you're on a jobsite or in a corporate office, you’ll be empowered to take initiative, explore new paths, and shape the future of construction. We believe in building opportunity together—by unlocking talent, inspiring innovation, and driving forward the ideas that make a difference.