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Cost Estimation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Estimation techniques (e.g. analogous, parametric, bottoms up, etc.) to develop cost estimates for work statements and change orders. * 2 years of experience with DoD and/or IC requirements and ...

Act as the primary point of contact for estimation. 3. Review and Validation of Contractor and Vendor Estimates * Assess, validate, and challenge cost estimates submitted by contractors, consultants ...

Act as the primary point of contact for estimation. 3. Review and Validation of Contractor and Vendor Estimates * Assess, validate, and challenge cost estimates submitted by contractors, consultants ...

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Your cost estimation skills are in demand! Submit your application and let us connect you with your next career move in Valley Park, MO! YOUR NEW ROLE AS OUR PLUMBING COST ESTIMATOR This is a ...

... Estimation techniques (e.g. analogous, parametric, bottoms up, etc.) to develop cost estimates for work statements and change orders. * 2 years of experience with DoD and/or IC requirements and ...

Cost Estimator

Bedford, MA · Hybrid

$125K - $140K/yr

Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in cost estimation and ACEIT software capabilities. * Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: * Must be a U.S. Citizen * Active Secret ...

New

Cost Estimator

Bedford, MA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in cost estimation and ACEIT software capabilities. * Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: * Must be a U.S. Citizen * Active Secret ...

Essential Functions, Responsibilities & Duties may include, but are not limited to: * Assist with the development and refinement of Government Cost estimation models. * Develop, maintain, and update ...

Essential Functions, Responsibilities & Duties may include, but are not limited to: * Assist with the development and refinement of Government Cost estimation models. * Develop, maintain, and update ...

Essential Functions, Responsibilities & Duties may include, but are not limited to: * Assist with the development and refinement of Government Cost estimation models. * Develop, maintain, and update ...

Essential Functions, Responsibilities & Duties may include, but are not limited to: * Assist with the development and refinement of Government Cost estimation models. * Develop, maintain, and update ...

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in construction cost estimation, preferably in prefabricated construction or a related field * Proficiency in construction estimating software (e.g., ProEst ...

THIS ROLE REQUIRES EXPERIENCE IN THE ESTIMATION OF COSTS FOR SCHOOL PROJECTS WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST SCHOOL DISTRICTS IN CALIFORNIA. * Develop and prepare cost estimates for school building ...

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Cost Estimation information

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$36.5K

$88.5K

$140.5K

How much do cost estimation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost estimation in the United States is $88,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the job of a cost estimator?

A cost estimator calculates the expenses associated with a project, including materials, labor, and equipment, to determine the overall budget. They analyze blueprints, specifications, and market prices, often using software tools, to provide accurate cost projections for construction, manufacturing, or other industries.

What is the difference between Cost Estimation vs Cost Analysis?

AspectCost EstimationCost Analysis
PurposePredicts the overall project costs before work beginsEvaluates actual costs incurred during or after project completion
TimingPre-project or planning phaseDuring or after project execution
FocusForecasting and budgetingCost control and performance assessment
Skills NeededEstimating techniques, industry knowledge, data analysisCost tracking, data analysis, financial reporting

While both roles involve financial assessment, Cost Estimation focuses on predicting future project costs during planning, whereas Cost Analysis evaluates actual costs to monitor and control expenses during or after the project. Understanding these differences helps organizations plan budgets effectively and ensure financial accountability.

How do you become a cost estimator?

To become a cost estimator, typically a bachelor's degree in fields like construction management, engineering, or finance is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in estimating software and cost analysis are important steps; professional certifications such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) can also enhance job prospects.

Will estimators be replaced by AI?

Cost estimators analyze project requirements, costs, and resources to prepare accurate estimates. While AI and automation tools can assist with data analysis and repetitive tasks, human judgment remains essential for complex decision-making and interpreting project specifics. The role is evolving to incorporate technology, but full replacement is unlikely in the near term.

How much do estimators earn?

Cost estimators typically earn a median annual salary of around $66,000, with salaries varying based on experience, industry, and location. Experienced estimators with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually. The role often requires proficiency in estimating software and strong analytical skills.
More about Cost Estimation jobs
What cities are hiring for Cost Estimation jobs? Cities with the most Cost Estimation job openings:
What states have the most Cost Estimation jobs? States with the most job openings for Cost Estimation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cost Estimation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,513 per year, or $42.6 per hour.
Principal Engineer - Cost Estimation

Principal Engineer - Cost Estimation

Oshkosh Corporation

Appleton, WI • On-site

$82K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Pierce, an Oshkosh company
At Pierce Manufacturing, we build trucks that protect people and communities around the world. To our team, there is no room for anything less than providing the absolute best. Since 1913, building truck bodies on Model T Ford chassis in an old converted church has evolved to creating highly customized, carefully designed and engineering pumpers, aerials, tankers and rescue units that have no equal. Today, you'll find more than 30,000 Pierce apparatuses on the road that are making a difference in people's lives, every day. To us, every step in the process of building our trucks is personal. From innovation and expertise, to the customization and service. Our trucks are designed to perform under the toughest conditions.
Principal Engineer - Cost Estimation R43695
The Principal Engineer - Cost Estimation will deliver cost estimates for new and existing parts by gathering and analyzing market data to include raw materials, purchased components, and manufacturing processes required to complete costing. The role will work side-by-side with engineers, sourcing and suppliers.
YOUR IMPACT
These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.
  • Provide estimates for proposal development, current production cost reductions, and new product development design to cost initiatives.
  • Identify and build cost model drivers to assist in design and purchasing activities.
  • Analyze supplier quotations and identify cost drivers (materials, labor, overheads, tooling, logistics, profit margins).
  • Participate in cost negotiation process to influence cost reduction and cost avoidance.
  • Consult with and advise product development engineers on economic alternatives for their design and suggest trade-offs.
  • Interface directly with supplier engineers to develop mutually agreed upon should cost models to understand cost drivers for use in pricing negotiations ongoing cost reduction activities.
  • Present ideas and solicit feedback to help support individual or team project assignments.
  • Participate on councils to share project results, present ideas, and solicit feedback to help support individual or team project assignments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with five (5) or more years of experience within Engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing, Cost Estimating, or a related field.
  • Experience with Computer Aided Cost Estimation (CACE) tools
  • Ability to travel 10%.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Hands-on mechanical aptitude
  • Supply chain or Engineering experience within the manufacturing industry.
  • Advanced understanding of Cost Accounting
  • Knowledge of manufacturing sequence of events and Bill of Materials
  • Ability to read Engineering drawings and interpret GD&T
  • Ability to effectively communicate.
  • Strong time-management and prioritization skills, able to multi-task and prioritize competing requirements and meet deadlines.
  • Experience and proficiency with various web-based software applications including Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.

*OSK1917
#LI-BB1
Pay Range:
$82,900.00 - $134,300.00
The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.
Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability for any part of the employment process, please contact us at corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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