The job of a construction estimator involves first compiling a variety of information. This may include:
- Materials lists
- Cost of labor estimates
- Circumstances related to accessing to the location
- Duration of the project
- Specialized machinery needed for the project
With the information from the site visit in hand, the construction estimator compiles the materials list and labor requirements, and then begins the actual estimation process. This is called the quantity survey, or “takeoff”, and includes completing estimating forms, filling in dimensions, and completing any other required additional information. If someone with a construction estimator career is working for a general contractor, the costs of all of the items the contractor requires must also be estimated. Subcontractors on a project will estimate their own costs as a part of their own bids, but the general contractor's construction estimator will often double-check these sub-estimates in order to make sure they are in line with industry standards.
The construction estimator is also responsible for decisions concerning equipment needs, crew size, the sequence of operations, and any physical constraints at the job site. Furthermore, the estimate developed by the construction estimator must also include allowances for problems that may occur while completing the job, such as wasted material, bad weather, shipping delays, and other unknowns.
After completing the takeoff, the construction estimator prepares a cost summary for the entire project — including subcontracts, the costs of labor, equipment, taxes, insurance, materials, overhead, markup, and other costs unique to the project — and then prepares the bid proposal for submission to the general contractor, developer, or homeowner.
Construction estimators may also be employed by an architect to estimate costs or track costs relative to bid specifications as the project goes forward. In large construction companies, estimators often specialize in an individual trade, such as electrical engineering or plumbing. The company will employ a number of estimators in order to allow multiple bids to be worked on at once.
Launching a Career as a Construction Estimator
Architects, contractors, and developers are increasingly looking for construction estimators who have degrees in building science, construction management, or construction science — all of which include taking several courses in cost estimating. Most construction estimators also have extensive experience in the trades, having worked from assistant to journeyman and sometimes all the way to master within their field of specialization. Having a thorough knowledge of all phases of the trades, such as electrical, plumbing, and masonry, will give one a definite edge if one is applying for a job as a construction estimator.
A construction estimator must have an aptitude for mathematics and be able to quickly analyze, compare, and interpret detailed, but often poorly defined, information. Estimators will, however, learn a great deal once they are on the job and receive valuable on-the-job experience that cannot be taught in a classroom. Every company has its own way of doing things, so newcomers are usually paired with an experienced estimator, who familiarizes the new hire with company techniques.
