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A cost estimator calculates the cost for labor, time, and materials by collecting and analyzing information that is needed to construct a building or product other products. They visit work sites to review the manufacturing process and usually have expertise in a particular area of product or industry. They prepare the cost estimates to assist management, products, or industries in price determination or bidding. Cost estimators work in a variety of industries but all are skilled at estimating the cost of a project. Watch this video to see a day in the life video of a construction cost estimator.
How to Become a Cost Estimator
A cost estimator usually needs a bachelor’s degree in accounting and/or similar field to be considered for a position. Experience in mathematics history, on-the-job training, and/or vocational school would aid you to securing a position.
A cost estimator is knowledgable in engineering and technology, mathematics, accounting, economics, and design. In addition, knowledge of building and construction experience is also required of a cost estimator works for a construction company.
Benefits of a Cost Estimator
You have learned what a cost estimator does and how to become one, and now we want to tell you about the benefits. A career as a cost estimator has numerous benefits to know about. First, those in this career field are crucial to companies that want to expand their business and need to know the costs, advantages, and disadvantages. Because of the importance of this position, cost estimators like knowing they make a difference.
Cost estimators can also help drive better business decisions. For example, they list the pros and cons on the business should a large purchase be made and are key when bidding for a project to ensure the bid is not too high or too low. Cost estimators are widely recognized and respected for their work, which benefits job growth and because they are needed in all industries, they often enjoy job security as they can land a job nearly anywhere and can even work from home. They also like forming relationships with businesses, clients, and co-workers.
Job Description of a Cost Estimator
A cost estimator helps a construction, manufacturing, or other services management team determine the cost estimate for bidding. They would help resolve issues and formulate estimates by consulting with construction Forman, vendors and clients. This would include reading and analyzing documentation and blueprints in order to give accurate material, cost, time and labor estimates.
During the length of a project, they are expected to update and prepare cost estimates and updated documentation for management. This way, the client is always aware of any changes in scheduling or estimated expenditures. They should analyze whether it is more cost effective to purchase or produce labor and materials for a project. He or she may be required to train others, supervise, or coordinate people in this job.
Cost Estimator Career Video Transcript
For every great product that’s been made, from the tiny cameras in smartphones to the Golden Gate Bridge, the close scrutiny of a cost estimator helped make sure it could be built. Cost estimators estimate the time, money, materials, and labor needed to manufacture a product, construct a building, or provide a service. Because of the detailed knowledge they gain through continual data collection and analysis, cost estimators usually specialize in a particular product or industry.
Construction cost estimators calculate total costs of building major projects such as a shopping center, or sports arena, or the cost of one element, such as a building foundation. Besides accounting for raw materials and labor costs, estimators factor in bad weather, shipping delays, and other variables that affect a project’s costs and timeline. Manufacturing estimators calculate the costs of producing or redesigning products, such as a dishwasher, or new software.
Though estimators mostly work in offices, they may need to visit construction sites and factory floors to gather information. They typically work for engineering or construction firms, and frequently collaborate with teams of engineers and architects as well as with clients and contractors. A bachelor’s degree is generally required, although highly experienced construction workers may qualify without a degree. Strong math and analytical skills, and detail orientation are essential.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Cost Estimators.
National Center for O*NET Development. 13-1051.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.