Estimator

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator with deep experience leading and developing construction cost estimates across all phases of design and construction. This role is suited for an independent professional who can quickly integrate into an established estimating team, take ownership of complex estimates, and effectively leverage existing tools, databases, and workflows with minimal onboarding. The position offers a hybrid work schedule with the potential to transition to fully remote.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and prepare construction cost estimates from conceptual design through bid-level documents.
• Develop high-level conceptual and schematic estimates based on limited or incomplete design information.
• Prepare detailed, bottoms-up estimates incorporating production-based labor, material unit costs, equipment costs, crew compositions, defined production rates, and fully built-up unit pricing.
• Develop estimates grounded in construction means and methods rather than reliance on historical unit costs alone.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor pricing in support of detailed estimates and bid submissions.
• Develop, review, and reconcile change order and modification estimates.
• Perform cost reconciliations between internal estimates, subcontractor pricing, contractor bids, and third-party or independent estimates.
• Interface directly with clients, owners, subcontractors, and project teams to review estimates, resolve cost issues, and support cost-related decision-making.
• Provide quality control review of estimates prepared by other estimators across all trades.
• Utilize and adapt existing cost databases, historical data, workbooks, and estimating software.
• Independently manage assigned estimates while coordinating with support estimators.
• Review drawings, specifications, and scope narratives to identify risks, gaps, and constructability concerns.
• Clearly document estimate assumptions, exclusions, methodologies, and areas of uncertainty.
• Support value engineering, risk assessment, and cost optimization efforts.
• Support construction scheduling efforts by developing detailed, man-hour-based labor estimates to support resource-loaded schedules.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• BA/BS plus eight years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent relevant industry experience.
• Ten years of experience in Construction and or Estimating.
• Hands-on field experience or direct experience in construction trades.
• Practical understanding of construction means and methods gained through field exposure.
• Working knowledge across major construction divisions and trades, with the ability to validate estimate components prepared by others for quality control.
• Expert-level estimating knowledge in at least one discipline (e.g., civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, or specialty trades).
• Experience estimating large-scale transportation, infrastructure, or complex federal programs.
• Familiarity with multiple estimating formats and classification systems (e.g., CSI, UniFormat).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work on Federal and Military projects and meet background check and clearance requirements.

Additional Information

• Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
• Sponsorship for US employment authorization is not available now or in the future for this position.

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.