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Cost Estimating Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Estimating Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

By manufacturing this way, we put nuclear power on the same cost-reduction curve that has made wind, solar, and batteries cheaper every year. Role Summary The Estimating Manager is responsible for ...

By manufacturing this way, we put nuclear power on the same cost-reduction curve that has made wind, solar, and batteries cheaper every year. Role Summary The Estimating Manager is responsible for ...

Analyze project specifications, blueprints, and other relevant documents to identify project requirements and develop accurate cost estimates. * Collaborate with project managers and other ...

Develops cost estimates for change orders * Prepares and presents estimates to management ... Recommends and incorporates cost-reduction options for more competitive bids * Attends project site ...

Job Title: Estimating Manager Location: Baton Rouge, La Employment Type: Full-Time About Moore ... Prepare and oversee detailed cost estimates, budgets, and bid proposals. * Review project plans ...

Showing results 21-40

Cost Estimating Manager information

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$37.5K

$90.2K

$142.5K

How much do cost estimating manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost estimating manager in the United States is $90,232.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cost estimating manager do?

A Cost Estimating Manager oversees the process of predicting the costs associated with a project or product, ensuring that estimates are accurate and align with company budgets and goals. They analyze project plans, gather data, and lead a team of estimators to prepare detailed cost projections. In addition, they often collaborate with project managers, engineers, and clients to identify potential cost savings and risks. Their work is crucial for helping organizations make informed financial decisions and maintain profitability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cost estimating manager?

To thrive as a Cost Estimating Manager, you need expertise in cost analysis, budgeting, and project management, typically supported by a degree in engineering, construction management, or finance. Familiarity with cost estimating software such as Sage Estimating, CostX, or ProEst, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel, is often required, and certifications like AACE’s Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with project teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering accurate cost projections, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring project profitability and success.

How does a cost estimating manager typically collaborate with other departments during a project's lifecycle?

A Cost Estimating Manager works closely with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and finance departments to gather the detailed information needed for accurate cost assessments. Throughout a project's lifecycle, they facilitate regular meetings to review estimates, track changes, and ensure alignment with budget constraints. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential, as the role often involves reconciling differing priorities while providing actionable cost insights to leadership. This collaborative approach helps achieve project goals while managing financial risk.

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

AspectCost Estimating ManagerCost Estimator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; often with certifications like AACE Certified Estimating ProfessionalSimilar educational background; certifications are common but less advanced
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages budgets, and coordinates with project managers in construction or engineering firmsPerforms detailed cost calculations, prepares estimates, and supports project planning
Industry UsageUsed in construction, engineering, and manufacturing industries for project cost controlCommonly employed in similar industries for detailed cost analysis and bid preparation

The main difference is that a Cost Estimating Manager oversees the estimating process, manages teams, and handles high-level budgeting, while a Cost Estimator focuses on detailed cost calculations and preparing estimates. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to project planning, but the manager has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

What cities are hiring for Cost Estimating Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Cost Estimating Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Estimating jobs?

The most popular types of Cost Estimating jobs are:

What states have the most Cost Estimating Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cost Estimating Manager jobs include:

Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator

Lenax Construction Services

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Please Note:  This is a Los Angeles based position. LENAX does not pay for relocation or travel expenses for interviews.  This is not a remote position.  The Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator will report to LENAX's Corporate Offices in Los Angeles, CA.

About Lenax Construction Services, Inc.

Since its inception in 1993, Lenax Construction Services, Inc. (LENAX) has provided quality construction services and project controls to a diverse range of owners, engineering, design, and construction firms. LENAX services a broad range of markets, including aviation, transportation, industrial, correctional, educational, and marine. LENAX is a goal-oriented and customer-driven independent consulting business, aimed at adding value and strength to our clients' program teams by providing expertise in current pricing and economic trends while utilizing the most up to date means and methods in the construction and design industries.

POSITION OVERVIEW

LENAX is looking for an Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator with broad-based experience in all construction disciplines and diversification across multiple market sectors of all types of horizontal and vertical construction. Special emphasis for experience with Alternative Project Delivery Methods such as CM/GC or Progressive Design Build. This individual will provide a hands-on approach--bringing strong experience as a general cost estimator to produce detailed cost estimates, along with the ability to effectively manage multiple projects, ranging in size and scope, working under tight deadlines, leading and managing cost estimators whose unique talents and specializations make for a truly robust estimating team; compiling and performing quality control to ensure the integrity of the estimates; and then effectively negotiating and defending estimates to the client.

The Estimating Manager / Lead Estimator role provides an opportunity to fully utilize one's diverse skills and experience as part of an amazing team, and an organization that values and rewards individual contributions, teamwork, and dedication--offering exceptional benefits, including fully-paid Medical, Dental, Chiropractic/Acupuncture, 401-k with matching, educational assistance, professional development and more.  This a wonderful opportunity for an individual with superior cost estimating skills with proven results.  As a team member and key contributor, this position will allow one to exercise their talents and significantly impact LENAX's business and people in a multitude of ways.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

  • BA/BS degree in construction or related field; OR, any combination of education, certifications, licensure, experience, and training that would support the individual's ability to effectively perform the essential functions of the job.
  • Fifteen plus (15+) years' applicable work experience-ideally, in a variety of roles, and with progressively increasing responsibilities, and including senior and/or lead roles.
  • Must have diversified experience, with various types of projects, and in multiple markets-strong emphasis in rail, highway and aviation.
  • A minimum of five (5) years in a Consulting and/or Construction-Management environment required.
  • A minimum of five (10) years of estimating/cost-estimating management experience required. Strong experience in "conceptual estimating."
  • Must have experience providing cost estimating services for the agency/owner, including change order negotiations. A mixture of experience providing estimates for the public agency/owner, as well as the contractor, preferred.
  • Experience with CM/GC and/or Progressive Design-Build Projects is required.
  • Experience with successfully reaching an agreed price with the CMGC contractor is required. 
  • A track record of successful work experience in a similar role. Note:  This position is based on projects that are typically not "time and materials;" but rather, "lump-sum" projects with hard deadlines. The individual in this role will not only be expected to perform effectively-coordinating multiple projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines; but, be able to work as part of a high-functioning team, in successfully meeting objectives-on-time, and meeting quality control stipulations.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, required.
  • Strong experience with commercial estimating software required. Proficiency with Sage/Timberline cost estimating software is required. Additional experience with HCSS and/or MC2 cost estimating software strongly preferred.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills--written and verbal.
  • Must be a self-starter, and self-directed; able to work collaboratively and effectively with others-regardless of level or position and perform as part of a high-functioning team.

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STATUS / COMPENSATION - This is a full-time, regular, exempt employment opportunity reporting to LENAX's Corporate Offices in Los Angeles, CA.  The rate range is $90 - $120/hr. ($187,200.00 - $249,600.00/yr.), depending upon skills, education, experience, directly-applicable experience and aptitude associated with taking-on additional responsibilities. 

BENEFITS of JOINING THE LENAX TEAM

LENAX employees enjoy a competitive compensation and benefits package! Here are some of the basics:

  • Three (3) weeks (120 hours) Paid Time Off (PTO) per year.
  • Eight (8) Company-Paid Holidays
  • A wide selection of medical plans, with HMO, PPO, HSA/EPO options available; Dental, Vision, and Chiropractic/Acupuncture benefits
  • 401-k Retirement Savings Plan with employer matching
  • Educational Assistance Program and Professional Development support
  • Employee Referral Program

Lenax Construction Services is a Drug-free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer

No Staffing Agency Inquiries, please.