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Contractor Estimator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Cost Estimator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Collaborate with applicants, engineers, architects, contractors, and program staff to define eligible work and project requirements. Cost Estimating * Prepare conceptual, parametric, and detailed ...

Tri-City Group

Industrial Estimator

Davenport, IA · On-site

The Industrial Estimator will be responsible for preparing detailed estimates for Industrial ... Professionally interacting with customers, other trades, general contractors, and internal staff

Tri-City Group

Industrial Estimator

Davenport, IA · On-site

The Industrial Estimator will be responsible for preparing detailed estimates for Industrial ... Professionally interacting with customers, other trades, general contractors, and internal staff

Tri-City Group

Industrial Estimator

Davenport, IA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

The Industrial Estimator will be responsible for preparing detailed estimates for Industrial ... Professionally interacting with customers, other trades, general contractors, and internal staff

Tri-City Group

Industrial Estimator

Davenport, IA · On-site

The Industrial Estimator will be responsible for preparing detailed estimates for Industrial ... Professionally interacting with customers, other trades, general contractors, and internal staff

Coreandmain

Estimator

Grimes, IA · On-site

Completes detailed and itemized material quantity estimates from owner or contractor furnished plan sets. * Determines accurate quantities related materials as measured from provided plan sets.

Core and Main LP

Estimator

Grimes, IA · On-site

Completes detailed and itemized material quantity estimates from owner or contractor furnished plan sets. * Determines accurate quantities related materials as measured from provided plan sets.

Weitz

Estimator II or Estimator III

Des Moines, IA · On-site

The Estimator III prepares complete estimates for construction projects under guidance and ... EPI Power, LLC ("EPI") is a licensed electrical contractor and subsidiary of The Weitz Company that ...

Baker Group

Estimator - Electrical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Support bid leveling and scope alignment with Owners, General Contractors, and other clients ... Utilize and maintain estimating software including database updates and assemblies. * Develop and ...

Baker Group

Estimator - Electrical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Support bid leveling and scope alignment with Owners, General Contractors, and other clients ... Utilize and maintain estimating software including database updates and assemblies. * Develop and ...

Contrack Watts, Inc.

Senior Estimator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We are a full-service construction company, general contractor, design-builder, and construction ... Review all estimates for accuracy, detail, and expectations * Review project plans, requirements ...

The Weitz Company

Senior Estimator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We are a full-service construction company, general contractor, design-builder, and construction ... Review all estimates for accuracy, detail, and expectations * Review project plans, requirements ...

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Contractor Estimator information

What is a contractor estimator?

Contractor estimators are professionals who assess the costs associated with construction projects. They analyze project plans, materials, labor, and timelines to develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for clients, contractors, or developers. Their work is crucial for budgeting, bidding, and ensuring projects stay within financial constraints. Estimators often use specialized software and must have a strong understanding of construction methods and industry pricing. Their estimates help guide project decisions and prevent costly overruns.

How does a contractor estimator typically collaborate with project managers and engineers during the bidding process?

Contractor Estimators work closely with project managers and engineers to ensure that all aspects of a project are accurately costed and feasible. This collaboration often involves reviewing blueprints and specifications together, discussing materials and labor requirements, and clarifying any technical details that could impact the estimate. Regular meetings and open communication are key, as estimators rely on input from the project team to produce accurate bids that reflect current market conditions and project scope. This teamwork helps minimize risks, avoid costly errors, and increase the chances of winning profitable contracts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractor estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contractor Estimator, you need a solid background in construction principles, mathematics, and project management, often supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with cost estimation software like Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or ProEst, as well as proficiency in reading blueprints and using Microsoft Excel, is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, negotiation skills, and effective communication help estimators excel in collaborating with stakeholders and ensuring project accuracy. These skills are crucial for producing reliable cost projections, minimizing financial risk, and securing successful project bids.

What is the difference between Contractor Estimator vs Construction Project Manager?

AspectContractor EstimatorConstruction Project Manager
CredentialsEstimating certifications, construction knowledgeProject management certifications, experience in construction
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, on-site for measurementsOn-site supervision, office planning
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, subcontractorsGeneral contractors, construction companies
Primary FocusCost estimation, bid preparationProject planning, execution, and oversight

While both roles are integral to construction projects, a Contractor Estimator primarily focuses on preparing accurate cost estimates and bids, whereas a Construction Project Manager oversees the entire project execution, managing teams, schedules, and budgets.

How to become a contractor estimator?

To become a contractor estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction or related fields. Many estimators pursue post-secondary education in construction management, engineering, or related areas, and develop skills in reading blueprints, cost analysis, and using estimating software. Certifications such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) can enhance job prospects.

Is a construction estimator a good career?

A construction estimator is a valuable role in the construction industry, responsible for calculating project costs and preparing bids. It requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of construction methods, and proficiency with estimating software. The career offers steady demand and opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications.

What does a contractor estimator do for a contractor?

A contractor estimator calculates the costs of materials, labor, and equipment needed for construction projects. They prepare detailed bids and budgets to help contractors plan and secure work, often using estimating software and reviewing project plans. Accurate estimates are essential for profitability and project success.

What are popular job titles related to Contractor Estimator jobs in Iowa?

For Contractor Estimator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contractor Estimator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Contractor Estimator jobs in Iowa are:

Contractor Estimator jobs near you

Cost Estimator

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 452 rated engineering

Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding experienced Cost Estimators to our Disaster Recovery team to support current and future disaster recovery operations across the United States.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Position Summary:
As a Cost Estimator in Tetra Tech's Disaster Recovery Cadre, you will support FEMA Public Assistance and other disaster recovery programs by developing accurate, defensible, and well-documented cost estimates for infrastructure restoration, emergency work, and permanent work projects. You will evaluate damaged infrastructure, develop and validate project scopes, prepare cost estimates, and support funding eligibility determinations for public facilities and infrastructure.
This is an on-call, as-needed position supporting disaster recovery programs following hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, and other federally declared disasters. Assignments may be remote, field-based, or hybrid depending on client needs and project requirements.
Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:
Project Scoping and Damage Assessment
  • Support FEMA Public Assistance and other disaster recovery programs through project scoping, damage assessment, and cost estimating activities.
  • Support site inspections of damaged facilities and infrastructure to understand disaster-related damages, proposed repairs, and construction requirements.
  • Evaluate project scope, means and methods of construction, and restoration approaches.
  • Assist with the development and validation of disaster recovery project scopes.
  • Collaborate with applicants, engineers, architects, contractors, and program staff to define eligible work and project requirements.

Cost Estimating
  • Prepare conceptual, parametric, and detailed bottom-up cost estimates for disaster recovery projects.
  • Develop labor, equipment, materials, subcontractor, and general conditions cost estimates.
  • Estimate costs associated with repair, restoration, reconstruction, mitigation, and replacement projects.
  • Prepare cost analyses for roads, bridges, utilities, buildings, drainage systems, parks, and other public infrastructure.
  • Support development of FEMA Cost Estimating Format (CEF) analyses when required.
  • Develop estimate documentation that is clear, defensible, and suitable for audit and program review purposes.

Technical Review and Compliance
  • Review engineering reports, plans, specifications, contractor proposals, and construction cost documentation.
  • Evaluate project assumptions, quantities, unit costs, and estimating methodologies.
  • Apply knowledge of applicable construction standards, codes, and regulatory requirements.
  • Identify cost drivers, scope changes, and factors impacting project eligibility and funding.
  • Assist project teams with cost validation, reasonableness determinations, and documentation reviews.

Program Delivery Support
  • Provide technical estimating expertise to project managers, Public Assistance consultants, and applicant representatives.
  • Participate in project formulation meetings and recovery planning discussions.
  • Support Requests for Information (RFIs), technical reviews, appeals support, and other recovery program activities.
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, architects, environmental specialists, grant professionals, and construction experts.
  • Maintain project records and supporting documentation in accordance with client and program requirements.

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in construction estimating, engineering, architecture, construction management, infrastructure planning, or a related discipline.
  • Experience developing conceptual, parametric, and detailed cost estimates for infrastructure or facility projects.
  • Experience estimating labor, equipment, material, and construction costs.
  • Familiarity with modern construction practices, facility assessments, project scope development, and construction inspection activities.
  • Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively under changing priorities and demanding schedules.
  • Ability and willingness to travel as needed for field assignments.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Infrastructure Management, or a related field.
  • Professional Engineer (PE), Registered Architect (RA), Licensed Contractor, Certified Cost Professional (CCP), Certified Cost Estimator, or similar professional credential.
  • Experience using RSMeans, Xactimate, FEMA Cost Estimating Format (CEF), or other industry-standard estimating platforms.
  • Knowledge of FEMA Public Assistance regulations, policy, eligibility requirements, and the Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG).
  • Previous FEMA experience as a Cost Estimator, Program Delivery Manager, Site Inspector, Hazard Mitigation Specialist, Policy Advisor, or similar disaster recovery role.
  • Experience with roads, utilities, drainage systems, site development, vertical construction, or public infrastructure projects.
  • Experience supporting disaster recovery, grant-funded infrastructure programs, or public sector capital projects.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to perform field inspections and site visits at disaster-impacted facilities and infrastructure when required by an assignment.
  • Ability to travel to client offices, applicant facilities, disaster recovery operation centers, and other project locations as needed.
  • Ability to perform computer-based estimating and technical review activities for extended periods during remote or office-based assignments.

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
  • Work assignments may be performed remotely, in the field, or through a hybrid arrangement depending on client needs and project requirements.
  • Field assignments may take place in disaster-impacted communities and at damaged public facilities or infrastructure sites.
  • Work conditions and location may vary by assignment, including active disaster recovery operations and geographically dispersed project teams.

Additional Information
  • This is an on-call, as-needed cadre position. Work assignments are not guaranteed and depend on disaster declarations, contract awards, client needs, project requirements, qualifications, availability, and recovery program activations.
  • Acceptance of assignments is voluntary, and periods of inactivity between deployments may occur.
  • Assignment schedules may be flexible and may include periods of high-intensity workload during active recovery operations.
  • Some deployments may require extended travel or mobilization on short notice; other assignments may be fully remote.
  • Evening and weekend work may be required during surge events or active disaster recovery operations.

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

What Tetra Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Tetra Tech logo

About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US

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