Getting a Career as a Construction Estimator

One of the most prospective and lucrative jobs around is that of a construction estimator. Quite a few industries use cost estimators but the construction industry employs more than half of them. The primary role of a construction estimator is to evaluate the cost of a construction project based on analysis of facts and figures.

The main responsibility of a construction estimator is to analyze and compile available data. The primary job activities are:

• Quantitative survey, a process to determine the quantity of material and labor required
• Analyzing the cost of equipment, labor and plants
• Calculating the total cost by adding overhead expenditures and profit
• Preparing a summary report of the total cost.
• Monitoring the costs during actual execution of the project to keep on file for future use.
• Reviewing the project specifications and also visiting the construction site.
• Gathering important information like site accessibility electricity availability, etc.
• Making notes and doing examination of topography, drainage etc.
• Listing all materials needed to complete a project based on specifications

Depending on employers, there are three types of estimators. They can be employed by construction companies to estimate if project expenditures fit into the budget or not. The second type of estimator is employed by general contractors to determine the bid amount of a project. Once a project is awarded to a contractor, the plans and blueprints are sent to subcontractors where a new estimator determines costs of specific tasks. An estimating job is office based but at times a person in this position may need to travel to construction sites or client locations to gather data.



An estimator should have strong mathematical and analytical skills. As most of the information to be analyzed is in the form of engineering drawings, it is desirable for the estimator to read and understand blueprints. Today, most of the mathematical calculations for estimation are done using computers. Also, many office software tools like word processors, presentations and spreadsheets are used. Hence, basic computer literacy is a must for a construction estimator. Other skills that will help in a day-to-day estimator's job are intelligence and the ability to think quickly. Since estimators need to present reports at the end of the day, they need to be assertive and confident with good interpersonal and communication skills.

Companies who employ construction estimators prefer candidates with an education in construction building, construction science, construction management or architecture. Previous experience is sometimes necessary but will depend on the employer's requirements. There are also certification courses available from several trade organizations.

As with most jobs, a construction worker's salary is also determined by education, work experience and size of the company. The salary of an estimator varies in the range of $35,000 to $90,000. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a construction estimator is $60,870. The salary of a construction estimator increases dramatically after a few years of experience in the industry. Of course, salary ranges vary depending on location, qualification and employment terms. With growing construction all over the globe, construction estimation jobs too are growing at a rapid pace.