Cost Estimators
Career Snapshot
ABOUT COST ESTIMATOR CAREERS
Predicting the cost of future projects accurately is critical to the sustainability of any firm, which is why a smart cost estimator is a valued employee. Estimators examine costs such as materials, labour, location, and machinery. The information is then reported to firm management.
Most cost estimators have a bachelor's degree, but many have years of related experience. Construction accounts for 60% of all positions, with managers preferring degrees in building construction, construction management, civil engineering, or architecture. Another 26% work in manufacturing, with the remainder in fields such as design or consultancy.
Employers in the manufacturing industry prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in mathematics, business administration, operations research, or engineering. Cost estimators must have quantitative skills as well as the capacity to quickly assess specific information, as well as communication and interpersonal skills. They use computer software to perform sophisticated computations and organise data.
Despite the fact that estimators typically work a 40-hour week, overtime and deadline pressure are prevalent. They may visit unclean work sites in construction and the factory floor in manufacturing. Frequent travel is the norm. Talented estimators are company heroes who win new clients, make profits, and are rewarded with increased salary and status.
Characteristics
Dealing and handling conflicts
Leadership
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Exposure to job hazards
Physical demands
Communication with others
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Comfort of the work setting
Competition for this position
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making
Activities
Analyzing Data or Information
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
Getting Information
Interacting With Computers
Processing Information
Areas of Study
Administration and Management
Building and Construction
Computers and Electronics
Customer and Personal Service
Economics and Accounting
Engineering and Technology
English Language
Mathematics
Degrees
Colleges
Top Skills
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Judgment and Decision Making
Management of Financial Resources
Mathematics
Reading Comprehension
Speaking
Writing