An Construction Estimator, helps businesses and individuals determine the cost of projects and whether they have enough funds in their budgets. Their duties include predicting the costs of labor, supplies, and materials, getting estimates from subcontractors, and preparing detailed reports for clients.

Estimator duties and responsibilities

Estimators compile and analyze information about the materials and labour needed for a project. Estimators also remind their clients about safety regulations, building codes, and other laws. Duties and responsibilities in an Estimator job description may include:

• Recording and comparing bids from multiple vendors and subcontractors.
• Finding ways to reduce costs of equipment and supplies.
• Advising people about the most cost-effective ways to construct a home or business.
• Creating bills and invoices, and receiving payments from customers.
• Preparing changes to costs estimates when customers change their plans, or when the availability of materials or labour changes.
• Preparing schedules for construction progress to let customers know how long projects will take.
• Making reports about expenses for the duration of the project.
• Visiting job sites and analyzing blueprints and plans.

What does an Estimator do?

Estimators often visit construction sites and speak with customers to learn about the scope of future projects. They create estimates by considering material costs and the complexity of the project. Estimators also predict overtime and staffing costs by thinking about project deadlines and explaining the reasons for costs to customers. Estimators allow companies to expand their facilities and build new ones without exceeding their budgets. They help reduce costs by researching average prices or pay rates, and they build relationships with vendors and subcontractors so they can give accurate price estimates to customers.

Estimator Skills and qualifications

Successful Estimators are friendly, polite, and professional. They must be able to work under pressure, meet strict deadlines, work independently, and pay attention to a variety of complex details. Estimators also need to deal with many different types of customers. Some skills and qualifications for Estimators include:

• Outstanding customer service skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to unforeseen situations.
• Understanding of basic math, how to keep track of expenses, and how to follow a budget.
• Good sense of direction and the ability to use maps or smartphone apps to find job-sites.