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Cost Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

ProSidian Consulting

Cost Estimator

Washington, DC · Remote

Coordinates with engineering, finance, legal, construction, operations, environmental, HSE, and ... For Cost Estimator | Operations / Construction & Lifecycle Monitoring Support [DOE0057057 ...

PL ASSOCIATES INC. (PLA)

Cost Estimator

Washington, DC · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

... engineering plans, specifications, and contractual documents • Ability to perform complex ... in cost estimating for water/sewer facilities or industrial plant designs • Be involved in ...

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 ...

Tecolote Research

Cost Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $145K/yr

S in Economics, Business, or a Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) field ... International Cost Estimating and Analysis (ICEAA) Certification * Advanced Degree (MBA, etc ...

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 ...

New

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 ...

New

CES Consulting

Construction Cost Estimator

Sterling, VA · On-site

CES Consulting LLC is a leading engineering and construction management firm focused on quality, safety, compliance, innovation, and value. CES is seeking a Construction Cost Estimator based in the ...

BNH

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD

$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 ...

New

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCost Engineer JobsCost Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Cost Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$47.3K

$101K

$145.1K

How much do cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost engineer in Reston, VA is $100,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,300.00 and $118,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

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 Engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require specialized skills, project management, and working in industries with high revenue potential.

What Engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced technical skills, project management, and working in high-demand industries or executive-level positions.

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 are Cost Engineers?

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 does a cost engineer do?

A cost engineer analyzes and manages project costs to ensure budgets are maintained and projects are financially feasible. They prepare cost estimates, monitor expenses, and use tools like cost management software to control project budgets throughout the construction or engineering process.
More about Cost Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Cost Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Cost Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
Cost Engineer jobs near you
Senior Cost Value Engineer, Intelligence Systems (Active Clearance)

Senior Cost Value Engineer, Intelligence Systems (Active Clearance)

Anduril Industries

Reston, VA • On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 71,263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ABOUT THE JOB

The Senior Cost Value Engineer for Intelligence Systems (internally known at Anduril as Senior Product Sourcing Engineer) drives the strategic supply network development and cost management of Anduril's product hardware across their lifecycles, by collaborating with suppliers and cross-functionally, including folks in engineering, quality, and manufacturing. You will be the end to end owner of supply chain for the Anduril Intelligence & Space business line, responsible for engineering support, vendor onboarding & development, as well sourcing, pricing, and negotiating for the total Bill of Material (BOM)

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Deep dive into your engineering Bill of Material (BOM), working closely with engineering to ensure parts being designed can be sourced & procured at a reasonable target level
  • Conduct supplier selection for a specific product, leveraging our approved supplier list as well as working to onboard unique vendors to support the needs of the Space & Intelligence business team
  • Drive on time delivery utilizing unique solutions to break the mold of traditional Space industry lead-times and supply constraints
  • Partner with strategic suppliers to accelerate product development via activities such as:
    • Concept scoping to quickly solidify requirements
    • Feature trade-off/trade tables
    • Should cost/clean sheet models
    • Joint design development, via clear statements of work
    • Simulation of mechanical & electronics designs
  • Drive the development and consolidation of a manufacturing BOM, working with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing, to ramp production internally and with our suppliers with high flexibility
  • Manage total cost of the program, including NPI & mass production  throughout NPI
  • Conduct value-stream mapping to optimize supply network lead time and flexibility
  • Complete the BOM risk assessment, include alternate component sourcing, etc.
  • Ensure completion of all component qualifications, ahead of production
  • Reduce complexity: commonality optimization & component/supplier rationalization
  • Lead all cost engineering activities to converge the bottoms-up cost curve to product cost, maximizing the total cost of ownership (TCO) across the product lifecycle
  • Manage ad-hoc cost issues e.g., tariffs / import export cost, and cost inflation
  • Managing supply issues as they arise, ensuring on time delivery at or below target cost

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical field 
  • 6+ years of experience in sourcing engineering, supplier engagement and development, or design of electronics and/or mechanical devices
  • Domain expertise of value/procurement engineering or TCO-related work at the component & product level
  • Active U.S. Secret or TS clearance and ability to maintain clearance
  • Ability to travel 10% - 40% of the time, variable based on program needs
  • Ability to relocate, if not already local to be onsite in Reston, VA

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master's degree or advanced technical degree
  • Deeper experience within:
    • Design & development of electronics and/or mechanical devices
    • Advanced sourcing activities, including stints as commodity/sourcing managers
    • Supplier development (technology, process, supply chain, etc.)
    • Early supplier engagement, ahead of product/engineering requirement realization
  • Familiarity with developing high-tech products in a high-mix, low-volume environment
  • Exposure to working in a fast-pace, start-up environment
  • Direct experience in the Space industry
  • Experience negotiating and managing commercial subcontracts

Working at Anduril

What Anduril employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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