The job profile as well as the nature of functions that a chief estimator is required to perform makes him a crucial asset to any organization or firm. Amongst the various job responsibilities included in the profile of a chief estimator, the first one is looking after the performance of various functions associated with the management of a firm. The major ones amongst these include managing staffing functions, taking care of wage reviews, completion of work assignments in a proper fashion, efficient evaluation of performance, and many more. He also needs to deal with bids. He jots down advantageous strategies of placing bids so that they enable a firm to acquire more and more business. He is an effective medium for promoting coordination between project management teams as well as the corporate staff, in order to effectively decide the best and the most lucrative projects to bid upon. He sometimes is required to work as a technical lead in providing assistance in many technical aspects such as effective negotiations, any alterations in orders, and many more. Sometimes public relation functions also fall into the work domain of a chief estimator. These may require the chief estimator to be a part of presentations or dialogues with the top management of the organization, or even the client. There are some firms which require chief estimators to perform various functions related to sales closing as well. Another important job responsibility of a chief estimator is to provide proper assistance in making suitable estimates in the organizations. He assists in preparation of studies, materials and methods, recommendations, and cost estimates as required. He reviews all final estimate packages to ensure accuracy and completeness, prior to formal quotation.
He might also have to perform certain other tasks as directed by your immediate senior. Being in the top management, a chief estimator is also responsible for maintaining a congenial work atmosphere in the organization.
A Chief estimator's job is one that requires a sound knowledge base in regard to the technical aspects of the field. Hence, some kind of a degree or certification suggesting technical proficiency is required. Generally, a bachelor's degree in engineering or some other technical certification proves ideal.
Apart from the technical aspect, the chief estimator's job requirements also need him to perform managerial functions. As a result of this, it is desired that some level of first hand experience or hands on into the various managerial functions and operations is necessary for stepping into the shoes of a chief estimator. A management degree or a certificate of experience at some managerial tasks could surely brighten your chances of being a proficient chief estimator. Most professionals in this field acquire on the job training.
A strong communication skill is one of the major capabilities required in a chief estimator. He needs to be active and quick as one has to be fast to hold such a top-notch position. A sales manager has to be welcoming as to invite all his subordinates to work for the smooth functioning of the organization. He should have supervisory skills so as to train, guide, and monitor his juniors. He should also be attentive to the problems of his team. He should be familiar with the business process of his organization to do his job smoothly.
The job prospects of a chief estimator are bright as their services are required in all organizations.
The chief estimator's service is really crucial and important to any organization. A chief estimator is paid an average of 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 US dollars. Besides they are also offered competitive compensation, challenging career growth opportunities, and comprehensive benefits like medical, dental, and vision plan, prescription drug program, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment Insurance, 401k plan, annual Bonus Plan, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays, vacation, and many more. But such schemes will depend on educational qualifications, years of experience, job location, and the employing organization.
All the estimates which are made and taken into consideration during the working of any organization are to be reviewed and monitored by a chief estimator. So the job holds a good deal of responsibility and is rewarding too. So opting for it as a career is a good choice.
