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Cost Estimating Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tecolote Research

Advanced Cost Analyst

Hanahan, SC · On-site

Conducting cost analyses and cost estimating in support of Life Cycle Cost Estimates, Analyses of Alternatives (AoA), Business Case Analyses (BCAs), and trade studies * Developing cost models and ...

Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, Ltd.

Cost Estimating Process * Develop, maintain, update, and deliver fully documented and well ... Analyze all elements affecting costs for a project of limited scope * Implement processes and logic ...

Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, Ltd.

Cost Analyst

$110K - $125K/yr

Cost Estimating Process * Develop, maintain, update, and deliver fully documented and well ... Analyze all elements affecting costs for a project of limited scope * Implement processes and logic ...

DisplayIt

Cost Estimating Manager

Mckinney, TX · On-site

Analyze project specifications, drawings, and requirements to develop detailed cost breakdowns. * Collaborate closely with design, procurement, sales, and operations to align estimating practices ...

Boeing

Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst

Everett, WA · On-site

$127K - $172K/yr

Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) team is looking for a highly motivated Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst to join our ...

Boeing

Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst

Everett, WA · On-site

$127K - $172K/yr

Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) team is looking for a highly motivated Senior Cost Recovery Estimating Analyst to join our ...

Tecolote Research

Senior Cost Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Cost research, data collection, parametric cost estimating, cost and schedule estimating, life cycle cost analysis, cost estimating relationship and model development, cost risk analysis, project ...

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Cost Estimating Analyst information

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$37K

$86.3K

$127.5K

How much do cost estimating analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost estimating analyst in the United States is $86,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cost Estimating Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cost Estimating Analyst, you need strong analytical abilities, proficiency in mathematics, and typically a degree in finance, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with cost estimation software such as ProEst, RSMeans, or SAP, as well as advanced Excel skills, is highly valued, and certifications like AACE's Certified Cost Professional (CCP) can be beneficial. Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and clear communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with project teams and presenting findings. These competencies ensure accurate cost projections, informed decision-making, and support the financial success of projects.

What is a Cost Estimating Analyst?

A Cost Estimating Analyst is a professional who evaluates and predicts the expenses associated with projects, products, or services. They analyze data, review project specifications, and use specialized software to estimate costs for materials, labor, and other resources. Their work helps organizations plan budgets, make informed decisions, and ensure projects stay within financial limits. Cost Estimating Analysts are commonly employed in industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, and government contracting.

What are some common challenges faced by Cost Estimating Analysts when working on large-scale projects?

Cost Estimating Analysts often encounter challenges such as managing incomplete or evolving project specifications, coordinating input from multiple departments, and adjusting estimates in response to unexpected changes in scope or market conditions. Working on large projects typically requires balancing accuracy with tight deadlines, ensuring estimates are both reliable and timely. Collaboration with engineers, project managers, and procurement specialists is essential, and strong communication skills help bridge gaps and clarify assumptions, which minimizes the risk of cost overruns.

What is the 0.6 rule for cost estimating?

The 0.6 rule in cost estimating, often used by Cost Estimating Analysts, suggests that approximately 60% of the total project cost is allocated to direct costs such as labor, materials, and equipment, with the remaining 40% covering indirect costs and profit. This rule helps in quickly assessing project budgets and ensuring accurate cost control during the estimating process.

Will estimators be replaced by AI?

Cost estimating analysts perform detailed cost assessments that require judgment, experience, and understanding of project specifics. While AI and automation tools can assist with data analysis and repetitive tasks, they are unlikely to fully replace human estimators due to the need for critical thinking and contextual decision-making in complex projects.

What is the difference between Cost Estimating Analyst vs Cost Estimator?

AspectCost Estimating AnalystCost Estimator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in finance, engineering, or related field; certifications like AACE Certified Estimating ProfessionalBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like AACE or CPC are common
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, government agencies, or consulting firmsConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, or project offices
Industry UsageUsed across government, aerospace, and large-scale industrial projectsPrimarily in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects

The main difference is that a Cost Estimating Analyst typically works in a more analytical, data-driven role within organizations, focusing on detailed cost analysis and forecasting. In contrast, a Cost Estimator often works directly on project sites or in construction environments, preparing initial cost estimates for projects. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications but differ mainly in their work setting and specific responsibilities.

Is a cost estimator a good career?

A cost estimating analyst is a valuable role in industries like construction, manufacturing, and engineering, focusing on calculating project costs and budgets. The career offers steady employment, opportunities for advancement, and often requires skills in data analysis, attention to detail, and familiarity with estimating software. It can be a stable and rewarding career for those interested in finance, project management, and technical analysis.

What does an estimating analyst do?

A cost estimating analyst evaluates project requirements, gathers data, and develops detailed cost estimates to support budgeting and project planning. They use tools like spreadsheets and estimating software, and often review specifications and drawings to ensure accuracy and completeness.
More about Cost Estimating Analyst jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Estimating Analyst jobs? The most popular types of Cost Estimating Analyst jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Cost Estimating Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cost Estimating Analyst jobs are:
Cost Estimating Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cost Estimating Analyst job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,312 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Advanced Cost Analyst

Advanced Cost Analyst

Tecolote Research

Hanahan, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Overview
We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a strong work ethic to support the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR) and other Department of Defense (DoD) projects. Successful candidates will have excellent communication, quantitative, research, and analytical skills in addition to the following.
Responsibilities
  • Conducting cost analyses and cost estimating in support of Life Cycle Cost Estimates, Analyses of Alternatives (AoA), Business Case Analyses (BCAs), and trade studies
  • Developing cost models and implementing cost estimating methodologies
  • Providing analytical support for program controls and reporting
  • Analyzing and assessing programmatic schedules

Skills Required
We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a strong work ethic to support the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR) and other Department of Defense (DoD) projects. Successful candidates will have excellent communication, quantitative, research, and analytical skills in addition to the following: Successful applicants will be required to possess the following qualifications:
  • 5+ years cost analysis / cost estimating experience; preferable in DoD acquisition programs
  • Professional certification from a recognized professional society or educational organization in the specific career field preferred (e.g. ICEAA Professional Cost Estimator / Analyst (PCEA), ICEAA Certified Cost Estimator / Analyst (CCEA), DAWIA level II, etc)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project) and cost estimating tools (e.g. ACEIT, Crystal Ball)
  • Minimum interim Secret level security clearance required
  • Bachelor's degree required. 24 semester hours of quantitative course work (economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, chemistry, finance etc.) required to include three hours of college level calculus

Additional relevant experience desired for applicants includes:
  • Life cycle cost estimate development and documentation
  • Developing cost estimating methodologies, relationships and cost model development
  • Cost databases (including data collection, validation and normalization techniques)
  • Risk and uncertainty analysis
  • Business case, economic analysis, net present value, and cost benefit analysis
  • EVM tools and techniques

Education
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences.

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