Lead Estimator - Capital Projects

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating execution through Pre-FEED, FEED, detailed design, construction support, and startup/commissioning phases.
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, procurement, and finance to ensure estimates align with technical scope, execution strategy, and current market conditions.
• Support Project Managers in developing schedules, milestones, and end date forecasts.
• Review and interpret project drawings, specifications, contracts, RFPs, and owner-provided documentation.
• Analyze engineering documents, vendor quotations, and historical benchmark data to develop comprehensive cost estimates.
• Perform quantity take-offs across civil, mechanical, and electrical disciplines and develop detailed material, labor, and equipment take-offs to support cost estimates and procurement activities.
• Prepare and coordinate conceptual through detailed cost estimates (Class 3 to Class 4).
• Establish estimating strategies for large and complex projects, overseeing multiple scopes within a single estimate.
• Apply construction means, methods, sequencing, and execution constraints to develop realistic, scope-specific estimates.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, contingencies, and alternative solutions within cost estimates.
• Develop geographic pricing strategies reflecting regional labor, material, and market conditions.
• Utilize cost estimating software and spreadsheets to develop detailed, itemized cost estimates.
• Leverage AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD P&ID, Bluebeam, Navisworks, and related tools for quantity verification and constructability reviews.
• Manage multiple estimating and continuous improvement initiatives simultaneously.
• Clearly communicate estimate assumptions, risks, cost drivers, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Adapt estimates in response to changing scope, schedule, cost, or quality constraints.
• Identify cost-optimization and value-engineering opportunities to support budget and capital efficiency.
• Evaluate and assist in qualifying contractors and equipment vendors.
• Participate in peer reviews of drawings, estimates, and technical documentation to ensure accuracy and constructability.
• Provide economic input during project scoping and early feasibility evaluations.
• Mentor, coach, and provide technical guidance to estimators and junior team members.
• Promote estimating best practices, standards, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Actively support organizational culture and professional development efforts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related technical/business field with 8–10 years of experience in a chemical, petrochemical, or similar industrial environment.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%, as required.
• WE VALUE ASPE, AACE Certified Estimating Professional (CEP), or other recognized estimating certifications.
• Strong understanding of construction techniques, sequencing, and estimating methodologies.
• Working knowledge and/or familiarity with Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, SAP, EcoSys, and estimating platforms such as AspenTech Icarus.
• Demonstrate expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced cost modeling and analysis.
• Ability to analyze drawings, specifications, WBS structures, and cost data.
• Advanced problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
• Strong attention to detail with a mindset focused on cost optimization and value creation.
• Demonstrate expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced cost modeling and analysis.
• Proven ability to influence across disciplines and organizational levels.
• Self-starter with a results-driven mindset and strong bias for action.