Cost Estimator Job Description

Estimators predict the costs of future construction projects. The cost of a project is important because several contractors often submit bids or price quotes on a construction job. Usually the contractor who submits the lowest bid is asked to do the work. Without a good estimate, a contractor could either bid too high and lose a potential project or bid too low and lose money after the work is completed.

Estimators usually make several cost estimates as a bid is being prepared. After a site visit, they begin with a general figure even before the architect completes A cost estimator visits a site to gather information that will be used to produce the project estimate. (© Martha Tabor/Working Images Photographs. Reproduced by permission.) the drawings of the proposed project. When all the plans and details are complete, a final estimate is made.

Estimators consider many things when preparing an estimate. They take into account previous projects that are similar; access to the site; availability of water, electricity, and other services; the costs and quantities of almost every material to be used; whether special machinery will be needed; and the productivity and pay of the various workers involved. After these and other details have been added together, estimators add a certain amount to cover unforeseen or emergency expenses, overhead, and a percentage of the total to make a profit.

Estimators have a very important job. Once a bid or price quote is submitted and accepted, a contractor must build the project for that set amount. If the contractor spends more than was estimated, he loses money or does not make a profit. On the other hand, if the estimate is originally too high, the contractor may not be awarded the job. In many cases, the success or failure of the contractor depends on the estimator.

Cost Estimator Job Description, Career as a Cost Estimator, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job