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Construction Cost Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bristol Bay Services

$100 - $125/hr

Projects may include MILCON, new construction, renovations, demolition, maintenance, and facility improvement projects. Duties/Responsibilities: * Provide cost engineering support for the planning ...

Bristol Bay Services

Cost Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Projects may include MILCON, new construction, renovations, demolition, maintenance, and facility improvement projects. Duties/Responsibilities: * Provide cost engineering support for the planning ...

Neorsd

$100 - $125/hr

Compiles financial cost information for large project contracts. Analyzes and evaluates costs for ... ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Collaborates with Engineering and Construction (E&C Team) to execute ...

Neorsd

Construction Cost Engineer III

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Compiles financial cost information for large project contracts. Analyzes and evaluates costs for ... ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Collaborates with Engineering and Construction (E&C Team) to execute ...

BB&E Inc.

Cost Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Participate in planning, budgeting, designing and construction of substantial new construction ... Professional knowledge of cost engineering concepts, theories, principles, practices, and ...

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Construction Cost Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$97K

$139.5K

How much do construction cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for construction cost engineer in the United States is $97,048.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a construction cost engineer do?

A Construction Cost Engineer is responsible for estimating, monitoring, and controlling costs associated with construction projects. They analyze project plans and specifications, prepare cost estimates, and track expenses throughout the project lifecycle to ensure budgets are maintained. Cost Engineers work closely with project managers, architects, and contractors to identify cost-saving opportunities and manage financial risks. Their expertise helps keep projects financially on track and supports decision-making for successful project completion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction cost engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Cost Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a background in civil engineering or construction management, and proficiency in cost estimation and budgeting. Familiarity with cost management software like CostX, Primavera, or SAP, as well as certifications such as AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP), are typically important. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you manage project costs and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills ensure accurate cost control, minimize financial risks, and contribute to the successful delivery of construction projects.

How does a construction cost engineer typically collaborate with project managers and site teams during a project?

Construction Cost Engineers work closely with project managers, site supervisors, and procurement teams to monitor budgets, track expenditures, and assess financial risks throughout the project's lifecycle. They regularly attend project meetings to provide cost updates, discuss potential overruns, and suggest value engineering solutions. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as cost engineers often reconcile estimates with real-time progress and negotiate with subcontractors or vendors to keep the project financially on track.

What is the difference between Construction Cost Engineer vs Construction Estimator?

AspectConstruction Cost EngineerConstruction Estimator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in construction management, civil engineering, or related field; certifications like AACE or CMAA are commonOften holds similar degrees; certifications like CPC or RICS may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks on project budgets, cost control, and financial planning during construction phasesPrepares cost estimates during project bidding and proposal stages
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by construction firms, project management companies, or as consultantsHired by contractors, subcontractors, or clients during project bidding

The main difference is that Construction Cost Engineers focus on managing and controlling costs throughout the construction process, while Construction Estimators primarily prepare initial cost estimates for project bids. Both roles require similar credentials and often work closely, but their responsibilities differ in project lifecycle stages.

More about Construction Cost Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Construction Cost Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Construction Cost Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Construction Cost Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Construction Cost Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Construction Cost Engineer jobs?

For Construction Cost Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Construction Cost Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Cost Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,048 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Construction Cost Engineer / Estimator

LRS Federal LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
LRS Federal is seeking an experienced Construction Cost Engineer to support multiple construction
programs across both public and private sectors. The successful candidate will provide estimating, cost
engineering, quantity takeoffs, constructability support, proposal pricing, and cost analysis throughout the
project lifecycle.
This position will support active construction projects, business development efforts, and future proposal
opportunities while working closely with Project Managers, Design Managers, QA personnel, and
executive leadership.
The ideal candidate possesses strong estimating experience across multiple project types and delivery
methods and is capable of developing accurate conceptual through definitive estimates while providing
practical construction insight during project execution.
This is a fully remote position with occasional travel as required.
Primary Responsibilities
Construction Cost Engineering
  • Prepare conceptual, budgetary, detailed, and definitive construction cost estimates.
  • Develop detailed quantity takeoffs from construction drawings and specifications.
  • Review contractor estimates for completeness, accuracy, and reasonableness.
  • Develop independent cost opinions throughout design and construction.
  • Support value engineering evaluations from a cost perspective.
  • Prepare cost comparisons and life-cycle cost analyses.
  • Assist with change order evaluations and cost negotiations.
  • Analyze cost impacts associated with RFIs, design revisions, substitutions, and scope changes.
  • Maintain historical cost databases and benchmarking information.

Project Support
  • Participate in multidisciplinary design reviews.
  • Review drawings for constructability from a cost and execution perspective.
  • Identify cost risks and opportunities early in design.
  • Support schedule and sequencing discussions where they impact project cost.
  • Assist Project Managers with forecasting, budgeting, and cost tracking.
  • Provide independent cost opinions to support owner decision-making.

Proposal Support
  • Develop pricing for competitive proposals and negotiated procurements.
  • Prepare labor, equipment, subcontractor, and material estimates.
  • Coordinate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
  • Support proposal narratives and pricing strategies.
  • Assist with capture planning and proposal reviews

Required Experience
Candidates should possess estimating experience supporting one or more of the following project delivery methods:
  • Design-Build (DB)
  • Design-Bid-Build (DBB)
  • Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR)
  • Construction Management Agency (CMa)
  • Progressive Design-Build (PDB)
  • Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)
  • EPC / Engineer-Procure-Construct
  • Job Order Contracting (JOC)

IDIQ Task Order Contracting Experience estimating projects within one or more of the following markets is preferred: Healthcare, Industrial Manufacturing, Mission Critical / Data Centers, Heavy Civil Infrastructure, Commercial, Government Facilities, Municipal, Water / Wastewater, others
Qualifications Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
  • Minimum five years of construction estimating and cost engineering experience.
  • Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
  • Strong knowledge of CSI Master Format and construction assemblies.
  • Experience preparing estimates from conceptual through construction document level.
  • Strong analytical and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently in a remote environment.

Not required but nice to have:
  • Ten or more years of estimating or cost engineering experience.
  • Experience supporting large commercial, industrial, healthcare, infrastructure, or institutional projects.
  • Experience working collaboratively with Owners, Designers, Contractors, and Construction Managers.
  • Professional certifications such as: • Certified Cost Professional (CCP) • Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) • Professional Engineer (PE) • Certified Construction Manager (CCM) • Project Management Professional (PMP)

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