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Cost Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cost Engineer

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$95K - $133K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Cost Engineer who will serve as a subject matter expert in job cost and project management financial functions. This role requires deep expertise in operational tools such as ...

Cost Engineer Associate

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

... engineering, and cybersecurity industries. The Level 1 Estimator assists more experienced estimators in preparing cost estimates for bids and proposals for electrical and other low voltage ...

Cost Engineer Staff

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

... engineering, and cybersecurity industries. The Level 2 Estimator assists more experienced estimators in preparing cost estimates for bids and proposals for electrical and other low voltage ...

Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ... Develop budgets and cost codes for projects; assist in the preparation of technical proposals, to ...

EPI Power is hiring a Cost Controller Engineer to join our growing team. This role will be responsible for assisting with establishing and managing a cost control system to support the team ...

Cost & Value Engineer (CVE) Reporting To: Manager, Operations Work Schedule: Onsite - Christiansburg, VA Our team in Industrial Group Slip Ring and Marine is looking for a Cost and Value Engineer ...

Cost & Value Engineer (CVE) Reporting To: Manager, Operations Work Schedule: Onsite - Christiansburg, VA Our team in Industrial Group Slip Ring and Marine is looking for a Cost and Value Engineer ...

Lead Cost

Reston, VA ยท On-site

In this role, you will be responsible for directing the cost engineering and cost analysis/control activities for projects with significant non-routine requirements which require a high degree of ...

Journeyman Cost Estimator

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$115K - $141K/yr

Our core capabilities include weapon systems engineering, logistics, space domain expertise, global ... Cost Estimating - Demonstrated understanding of the connections of cost drivers and estimating the ...

Showing results 21-40

Cost Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$96.2K

$138.3K

How much do cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost engineer in Virginia is $96,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cost Engineer vs Cost Estimator?

AspectCost EngineerCost Estimator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, construction management, or related field; certifications like AACE International's CCP or CEOften holds a degree in construction management, engineering, or related; may also have certifications like AACE CCP
Work EnvironmentWorks on project cost control, budgeting, and financial analysis during project executionFocuses on preparing cost estimates for project bids and proposals
Industry UsageUsed throughout project lifecycle, especially in engineering and construction projectsPrimarily involved during project planning and bidding phases

While both roles involve cost analysis, a Cost Engineer manages ongoing project costs and controls, whereas a Cost Estimator focuses on initial cost projections for bids. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right career path or job role in the construction and engineering industries.

What degree do you need to be a cost engineer?

A cost engineer typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, finance, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of project management, cost estimation, and industry-specific software tools. Some positions may prefer or require professional certifications such as the Certified Cost Professional (CCP).

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

A Cost Engineer requires a solid background in engineering, mathematics, or finance, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with budgeting and cost estimation. Familiarity with cost management software (like Primavera or SAP), project management systems, and industry certifications such as AACE or PMP are typically important. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help Cost Engineers collaborate with project teams and stakeholders. These competencies are crucial to ensure project costs are accurately estimated, controlled, and aligned with business objectives.

How does a cost engineer typically collaborate with project managers and other departments during a project's lifecycle?

Cost Engineers work closely with project managers, procurement teams, and engineering staff to ensure project costs remain within budget and financial risks are minimized. They participate in regular project meetings, provide cost forecasts, and analyze potential cost overruns. Their role often involves reviewing vendor quotes, coordinating with schedulers to align budgets and timelines, and preparing detailed cost reports for stakeholders. This cross-functional collaboration is essential to proactively identify issues and support informed decision-making throughout the project.

What does a cost engineer do?

As a cost engineer, you estimate the various costs associated with a project. You can perform your duties in a variety of settings and industries. Many cost engineers work in construction, manufacturing, or other industrial enterprises. In these positions, your responsibilities focus on using technical knowledge to forecast expenses for all phases of the project accurately. You help create a budget that includes time, materials, labor costs, and other factors. These other factors may include things like travel, taxes, and security needs. Cost engineers use specialized software to organize their cost figures and compile information for creating a budget.

What is a cost engineer?

Cost Engineers are professionals who specialize in estimating, managing, and controlling the costs associated with engineering projects. They analyze project plans, materials, labor, and time requirements to develop accurate cost projections and budgets. Cost Engineers play a crucial role in helping organizations optimize resources, minimize expenses, and ensure projects are completed within financial constraints. Their expertise is essential in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cost Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cost Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cost Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Engineer jobs in VA?

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

Infographic showing various Cost Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,215 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Senior Cost Engineer

PC Construction Company

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Senior Cost Engineer who will serve as a subject matter expert in job cost and project management financial functions. This role requires deep expertise in operational tools such as ERP and Project Management systems, acting as a power user and functional leader. The right candidate will have a Bachelorโ€™s degree or other degree with equivalent and relevant work experience in the construction industry and five years of experience in appropriate financial, business, and related experience, along with strong decision-making abilities, building partnerships, self-motivation, time management, and strong communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and continuously improve change management processes and procedures.
  • Set up contract change PCI markup rules, ensuring markup rules conform to company standards and the Owner Contract.
  • Develop and deliver training and support to project teams in change management and PCIs.
  • Review and post contract PCIs, ensuring conformance with markup rules and Owner Contract.
  • Review and post Owner change orders.
  • Create queries and reports in system analytics tools.
  • Assist Project Managers in preparing their estimates-to-complete, conduct analysis to ensure consistent and reasonable forecasts, and prepare summaries for management review.
  • Participate in monthly project review meetings.
  • Develop and deliver training in support of forecasting best practices and company procedures.
  • Set up billing defaults for projects in job billing system.
  • Arrange and lead meetings with project team and Owner reps to define the project billing format and process.
  • Prepare and maintain bill rate tables.
  • Prepare, verify, and process GL charges on all projects.
  • Provide training and support to project teams for billing system.
  • Develop and continuously improve standard job cost processes and procedures.
  • Create job cost budgets from Estimate details, ensuring adherence to job cost standards while applying discretion in project-specific exceptions.
  • Set up jobs to correctly process all integrated ERP processes and reporting requirements.
  • Develop and deliver training and support to project teams for job cost system.
  • Review and process budget changes submitted by Project Managers.
  • Review various monthly job reports.
  • Conduct research and analysis for departments and jobs.
  • Respond to job cost-related help requests.
  • Support projects in the proper risk management and administration of subcontract and purchase order compliances and retainage.
  • Support projects in sub/PO commitment and payment processing.
  • Supervise Job Cost Engineers and participants of the Leadership Development Program as assigned.
  • Assign and prioritize tasks and projects to assigned direct reports.
  • Investigate and advise key leaders and stakeholders on strategies to foster and leverage innovation.
  • Search for and address root causes to recurring problems.
  • Collaborate with Operations and support personnel to develop integrated project administration systems.
  • Maintain a catalog of PC's project management processes and regularly review processes for improvement.
  • Review and implementation of new tools or technologies to maximize production, efficiency, and operations.

100% EMPLOYEE OWNED

PC Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

About PC Construction:ย PC offers general contracting, construction management and design-build services to private and public clients across the country. The company manages projects along the east coast from its headquarters in Vermont and a network of locations in Florida, Georgia, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina and the Mid-Atlantic. From specialized buildings to complex water and wastewater treatment plants, PC is ranked annually as one of the top contractors in the country. A construction industry leader for over 65 years, PC Construction is guided to success by its team of dedicated employee-owners. #LI-AL1

This position has a pay range of $95,000 to $133,000 annually, depending on experience, in addition to an extensive benefits package that includesย company stock and a profit-sharing bonus.