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Cost Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

PL ASSOCIATES INC. (PLA)

Cost Estimator

Washington, DC · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contractual ... Experience in cost estimating for water/sewer facilities or industrial plant designs * Be involved ...

ALFA Trechs, Inc.

Cost Estimator

Washington, DC · On-site

Conduct value engineering studies to optimize project outcomes * Leverage advanced tools for accurate estimating * Offer specialized cost advice and support for commercial and institutional projects ...

ALFA Trechs, Inc.

Cost Estimator

Washington, DC · On-site

Conduct value engineering studies to optimize project outcomes * Leverage advanced tools for accurate estimating * Offer specialized cost advice and support for commercial and institutional projects ...

ACT1 Federal

Junior Cost Estimator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$77K - $94K/yr

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

BNH

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$68K - $89K/yr

Job Title: Cost Analyst Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: G - Program Management ... Grade 06: BS degree in either Finance, Accounting, or Engineering plus one year of progressive and ...

AE Works

Cost Estimator

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$90K - $110K/yr

Our team is redefining building design and engineering. AE Works is an award-winning firm ranked ... AE Works is seeking a talented Cost Estimator to join our team. In this role, you will be ...

BNH

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$68K - $89K/yr

Cost Analyst Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: G - Program Management & Operations (Non ... Grade 06: BS degree in either Finance, Accounting, or Engineering plus one year of progressive and ...

BNH

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$68K - $89K/yr

Cost Analyst Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: G - Program Management & Operations (Non ... Grade 06: BS degree in either Finance, Accounting, or Engineering plus one year of progressive and ...

iQuasar LLC

Cost Analyst

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Evaluate contractor engineering change proposals * Perform forward pricing rate and corporate indirect rate analysis * Develop government independent cost estimates * Conduct assessments on program ...

BNH

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD

$68K - $89K/yr

Cost Analyst Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: G - Program Management & Operations (Non ... Grade 06: BS degree in either Finance, Accounting, or Engineering plus one year of progressive and ...

MIRACORP

Be Seen First

Cost Estimating Curriculum Developer SME

Fort Belvoir, VA · Remote

The Cost Estimating Curriculum Developer SME provides technical expertise in Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition, cost estimating, software cost estimating, affordability analysis, and data ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsCost Engineer JobsCost Engineer Jobs in Washington

Cost Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$109.9K

$158K

How much do cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost engineer in Washington is $109,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $129,100.00 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.
More about Cost Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Cost Engineer jobs in Washington? For Cost Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cost Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Cost Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Cost Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cost Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cost Engineer jobs in WA? For Cost Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cost Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cost Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,916 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Cost Estimator

PL ASSOCIATES INC. (PLA)

Washington, DC • On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Tuition assistance
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources

Qualifications
• Bachelor's or Associate degree in Civil, Construction Management or related field, or equivalent experience
• 1-3 years of water /wastewater and facility construction estimating experience
• Advanced knowledge of construction methods, materials, and labor requirements of water and wastewater facility and pipelines projects
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contractual documents
• Ability to perform complex mathematical and engineering computations
• Ability to accurately estimate construction materials and labor costs for a full range of water and wastewater construction projects
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and work effectively with engineering and construction personnel
• Good knowledge of the principles and practices of water and wastewater engineering
• Good knowledge of municipal public work design procedures and criteria
• Ability to apply engineering knowledge to specific administrative, professional, and technical problems
• Ability to prepare and effectively present highly technical and complex engineering reports and estimates both verbally and in writing, good professional engineering judgment
• Experience using Heavy Bid, Equipment Watch, RS Means or similar software
• Experience in cost estimating for water/sewer facilities or industrial plant designs
• Be involved in projects with our PM/CM Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges
• Provides construction cost estimates from bid-ready engineering plans and specifications for water and wastewater facility construction contracts
• Estimates material and labor requirements and prepares cost estimates for projects in the planning, design and construction phase
• Reviews construction cost change orders
• Reviews data supplied by engineers, contractors, Project Managers, Contract Managers and Construction Managers
• Other duties as assigned