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.