How to become A Construction Estimator

• Construction Cost Analyst

What do Construction Estimator do?

A Construction Estimator would typically need to:

• Analyse available data to accurately estimate and determine the cost of a building project
• Manage and coordinate construction projects
• Use company-approved software to prepare estimates of probable costs of material, labour, production time and equipment
• Analyse additional data such as currency exchange rates and the company’s productivity rates for their impact on costs
• Draw up subcontracts for construction projects based on contract bids, quotations, schematic drawings and specifications
• Recommend beneficial tendering procedures, study and analyse tenders, assist in choice of tenders and conduct negotiations to get the best prices and quotes
• Initiate, sustain and complete tendering procedures after studying the financial, technical and operational risks of the project
• Establish cost monitoring and reporting systems; prepare construction progress schedules
• Document total material need, including codes, brands and contact information necessary to process orders
• Draft periodic expenditure statements and forecasts during the execution of a project to confirm it is within pre-determined limits
• Work with owners, engineers, architects, contractors and subcontractors in preparing economic feasibility studies on changes to cost estimates
• Maintain an updated directory of reliable suppliers, contractors and subcontractors
• Preserve records and prepare regular reports of estimated and actual expenditure

Construction Estimators spend the better part of the work day in an office but may need to visit construction sites and factory assembly lines, which necessitates travel. You will work with a team but may need to take independent decisions at times. Close collaboration with clients and suppliers is essential.

A full-time Construction Estimator’s standard workweek comprises 40 hours, except during peak periods when they work overtime to prepare bids and meet deadlines. The number of additional hours per week will vary according to the specific job, construction sector and region they work in.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Construction Estimators can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Construction Estimators are generally employed by:

• Construction Contractors & Subcontractors
• House Builders
• Construction & Property Development Companies
• Civil Engineering Firms
• Engineering Firms
• Infrastructure Groups
• Facilities Management Organisations
• Public Sector & Local Housing Associations
• Consultancy Firms
• Rail Track Construction Companies
• Specialist Highway Services
• Mechanical, Engineering & Plumbing Service Providers
• Carpentry & Joinery Subcontractors
• Architects
• Interior Fitters

Professional associations and organisations, such as The American Association of Cost Engineering international are crucial for Construction Estimators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Inaccurate estimates due to lack of adequate time to study all the factors and work on the estimate
• Working with fixed budgets and schedules
• Unrealistic expectations of an owner, designer or contractor
• Creation of accurate estimates in the face of constantly changing prices and availability of materials, equipment and labour
• Increase in prices due to shortages in supplies or labour

Employers prefer applicants who undertook an internship or industrial placement as part of their academic program. 

You will gain optimal benefit from your tasks outside of the classroom when they line up perfectly with your lessons inside it. You may get to hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they manage to turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

Prior experience in the industry they seek a job in or significant experience in managing construction projects, construction design (engineering or architecture) or manufacturing will also prove useful.

Quite a few Construction Estimators begin their careers as surveying assistants, administrators, craftspersons, technicians or trainee estimators or as apprentices in a building or engineering firm. At least three years of experience as an assistant to a estimator or quantity surveyor will help your promotion to an estimator position.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in construction estimation to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

A bachelor’s degree in construction/civil/structural/mechanical engineering,  construction management or mathematics is the most common qualification employers seek in applicants for the position of Construction Estimator.

A professional diploma, HNC (Higher National Certificate) or an HND (Higher National Diploma) in the subjects mentioned above may also be acceptable in specific locations.

Focus on math, business and English in high school.

Certification in construction estimation from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and allow you to become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

A combination of education, experience, and testing is generally required to gain certification, though requirements differ from region to region. Check with your local education providers for exact prerequisites.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Construction Estimators who may be promoted as Project Team Leaders, Quality Assurance Inspectors or Contracts Managers. 

You can also choose to specialise in residential or utilities or a particular type of construction package or discipline such as civils, groundworks, mechanicals or interiors. Movement into related professions such as quantity surveying, supply chain or general management is also common.

Candidates with a relevant bachelor’s degree, certification and experience in construction-related fields have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Construction Estimator build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Your employer may have on-the-job training in place to make sure all new hires gain familiarity with their operations. In addition, you can take advantage of the different professional development courses in cost budgets, risk analysis, estimating and organising resources, as well as contract and legal work offered by various private training providers. 

Your employer may also be willing to sponsor additional formal training and certifications in project control, construction contracting operations and site management.

A Level 3 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) and significant experience can make you eligible to seek membership in a professional association for cost engineers in specific locations. 

Although not mandatory, some Construction Estimators undertake postgraduate study in construction project and cost management, quantity surveying or construction management.

CPD will also allow the regular renewal of desirable certifications and help you stay abreast of the latest construction technologies as well as regulatory and legislative requirements.

What Constitutes A Good Construction Estimator?

Reliable construction estimation requires particular attention to detail and accuracy along with excellent mathematical, analytical, time-management and oral and written communication skills.  

The Current Scenario

There may be fewer entry-level job opportunities at major construction companies, but maintenance companies offer an excellent deal to Construction Estimators who are willing to be flexible and work on different types of projects. 

In addition, the number of individuals who wish to take up estimating as a career is relatively low and augurs well for those who decide to do so.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Construction Estimators have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Construction Estimator has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Construction rentals, including temporary chain fences, landscaping equipment and portable toilets and storage, average around six days and make up 47% of current industry revenue.

As simple as it may sound, construction estimation is no walk in the park. It is tedious, time-consuming, stressful and requires considerable skill. And yet, every time they successfully pull through a project as per plan, Construction Estimators have the inimitable satisfaction of a job well done.

A systematic and organised approach to work and a calm attitude will work wonders in surmounting the inevitable issues in construction estimation.