Manager, Aviation Program Controls Cost Estimating

Applications will be reviewed regularly, with the first review on August 10, 2026. Interviews may be conducted prior to the close date.

About the role

As the Manager, Aviation Program Controls Cost Estimating, you will develop estimates, manage processes, and ensure resources are available to provide estimating services. You are responsible for the quality and timely delivery of cost estimates, which serve as the basis for capital planning, tracking project budgets, and developing construction costs for bidding work and change orders.

You will oversee departmental operations by supervising and mentoring staff, managing estimating processes and budgets, assigning tasks, administering consultant contracts, coordinating and comparing independent estimates, and leading review meetings to resolve scope differences. You will provide final recommendations to design and planning teams for various airfield, landside, terminal, and infrastructure programs.

You will coordinate with key stakeholders to review scope, examine differences, and provide final recommendations. You will review project estimates for quality and accuracy prior to distribution, including pricing, soft costs, contingencies, scope, design documents, schedules, project logistics, and operational impacts.

You will support project managers and project controllers by assisting in approval presentations, reviewing design team and in-house estimates, and developing bid estimates. You will also determine appropriate advertisement ranges for upcoming project opportunities.

You will develop work packages for major trades with detailed labor productivity and rates, material, and equipment costs to ensure current pricing. You will contact contractors and material suppliers to verify market prices and trends, and assist in negotiating construction contracts on General Contractor/Construction Manager (GCCM) and Tenant Reimbursement Agreement (TRA) contracts.

You will update and maintain cost databases reflecting bid results from Port of Seattle projects and similar projects in the Northwest.

Requirements

• Four (4) years of estimating experience in pre-construction and/or construction projects.
• Two (2) years of supervisory, lead, or mentor experience, including leading a project or process.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, construction management, architecture, or engineering (desired).
• Commitment to equity, applying shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work.

Skills

• Cost Estimating: Skilled in producing accurate, comprehensive cost estimates by analyzing scope, schedules, and operational impacts. Able to compare estimates, resolve differences with stakeholders, support bid development, and maintain up-to-date cost databases.
• Relationship Builder: Ability to work with diverse staff at various organizational levels to resolve problems while providing excellent guidance and customer service.
• Effective Communicator: Advanced communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and strong, credible relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Problem Solver: Skilled in effective decision-making and prioritizing projects and timelines based on immediacy.

Schedule

• Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (40 hours per week).
• Slightly flexible start and end times are available.
• Hybrid/in-office work environment at management’s discretion.

Additional Information

• Employees must establish a residence in Washington state within 30 days of their first day of employment and maintain it during their employment. Work performed while teleworking must be in Washington State.
• Must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check and a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Employment is contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle ID badge upon clearance.

Benefits

• Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision care options for you and your family.
• Paid Vacation: Approximately four weeks per year, increasing with tenure.
• Paid Sick Leave: At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
• Holidays: More than ten days per year.
• Pension/Retirement Plans: A pension and additional savings plans.
• Getting to Work: Subsidized parking, low-cost public transit card, and alternative work arrangements.
• Parental Leave: Six weeks of paid leave for new additions to your immediate family.
• Development: Tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments, and internal internships.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Actively working to create a culture where all employees succeed and reach their fullest potential.
• Work-Life Balance: Resources to help create healthy and balanced habits.
• Mission Driven: Focused on promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region through trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.

Pay

Minimum Salary: $143,338.00

Maximum Salary: $193,930.00