Cost Estimator

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Work Tasks

• Predict the cost of projects
• Find out which products are making money and predict if new products will make money
• Look at all of the things which can affect costs, such as materials, workers needed, and necessary equipment
• Make reports to show findings
• Work for construction companies, plants, engineering and architectural firms, businesses, the government, and themselves as self-employed
• Work with architectural drawings, specifications, engineering designs, blueprints, surveys, parts lists, project cost summaries, bid proposals, and computers

Salary, Size & Growth

• $59,500 average per year ($28.50 per hour)
• A large occupation (183,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.5% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 2-year degree in engineering or a construction-related field and work experience in the field
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree in engineering, construction management, or architecture
• Skills/Courses: Extensive knowledge of construction materials, costs, and procedures in electrical systems, plumbing systems, or masonry
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is available after at least 2 years and passing a test.