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Cost Estimation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Cost Estimator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

Works on continuously improving the cost estimation process using organizational change management practices and techniques. * Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable ...

PM2CM

Project Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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 ...

PM2CM

Project Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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 ...

PM2CM

Project Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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 ...

Stantec

Senior Cost Estimator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Cost Estimation Excellence: You'll supervise, facilitate, and coordinate the development of accurate, timely, and detailed cost estimates for major capital and construction projects. Your expertise ...

Stantec

Senior Cost Estimator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$122K - $183K/yr

Cost Estimation Excellence : You'll supervise, facilitate, and coordinate the development of accurate, timely, and detailed cost estimates for major capital and construction projects. Your expertise ...

Citadel CPM

Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra work. * Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors' bids vary from the construction cost estimate.

Citadel CPM

Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra work. * Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors' bids vary from the construction cost estimate.

Citadel CPM

Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA

Prepare fair cost estimates for cost proposals from Contractors for extra work. * Perform special studies and prepare reports when contractors' bids vary from the construction cost estimate.

Essel

Cost Estimator

Folsom, CA · On-site

Prepare detailed cost estimates for healthcare construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs, ensuring compliance with OSHPD standards. * Review RFPs, RFIs ...

Essel

Cost Estimator

Folsom, CA · On-site

Prepare detailed cost estimates for healthcare construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs, ensuring compliance with OSHPD standards. * Review RFPs, RFIs ...

Consertus, Inc.

Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

Consertus is seeking a Cost Estimator to support LA Metro's LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games Program . This program includes a range of capital improvement projects such as Mobility Hubs , bus ...

Consertus, Inc.

Cost Estimator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Consertus is seeking a Cost Estimator to support LA Metro's LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games Program . This program includes a range of capital improvement projects such as Mobility Hubs , bus ...

Essel

Cost Estimator

Folsom, CA · On-site

Prepare detailed cost estimates for healthcare construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs, ensuring compliance with OSHPD standards. * Review RFPs, RFIs ...

Parametrix

Cost Estimator

Emeryville, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $110K/yr

About the Opportunity We are looking for Cost Estimators to join our Advisory Services team. You will have experience in construction cost estimating, cost engineering, and/or similar project ...

General Atomics

Pricing/Cost Estimator

Poway, CA · On-site

Ensure that cost estimates are responsive while meeting overall corporate policies and objectives. Support cost estimating activities and cost and pricing reviews with management and customer ...

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Cost Estimation information

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.

Are cost estimators in high demand?

Cost estimators are in high demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering, as organizations seek accurate project budgets and cost control. Employment for cost estimators is projected to grow faster than average, with strong job prospects for those with skills in data analysis, software tools, and industry-specific knowledge.

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. Certification, such as the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), can enhance job prospects.

Is a cost estimator a good career?

A cost estimator is a valuable role that involves analyzing project costs and preparing estimates for construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects. It requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with estimating software. The career offers steady employment opportunities and potential for advancement in various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Cost Estimation jobs in California?

For Cost Estimation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Estimation jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Estimation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cost Estimation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cost Estimation job openings:

Cost Estimation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cost Estimation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Cost Estimator

Palmdale, CA • On-site

General Atomics
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about General Atomicsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Cost Estimator to work within our Airport Business Management (ABM) department. This position is onsite at Flight Operations in Palmdale, CA with flexibility offered by a 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off), one remote day per week, and a company rideshare program.
Under general supervision, performs labor cost estimates of proposals and supports pre-award, post-award and fact-finding audits. Helps develop and maintain the cost estimating system and other cost estimating duties to achieve business objectives. The ideal candidate enjoys working cross-functionally with stakeholders at each level of the organization, enjoys challenges and changes, has strong attention to detail, and enjoys an intermittent workload. The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment that requires the ability to multi-task.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Computes cost factors and prepares Basis of Estimates (BOEs) used for management purposes such as planning, organizing, and scheduling work, preparing bids, and determining cost effectiveness.
  • Compiles and analyzes statistical data to calculate Flight Operations costs.
  • Conducts analysis to develop and establish standard hour and related cost data or effect cost reductions.
  • Interfaces with several internal functional groups and subject matter experts to gather data.
  • Analyzes specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, and labor estimates for products, projects, or services.
  • Reviews estimating plans, program characteristics, estimating structures, ground rules and assumptions to determine labor hour requirements to prepare BOEs.
  • Obtains data for cost analysis studies by determining Flight Operations labor hours.
  • Performs or assists with pre-award, post-award, and fact-finding audits.
  • Develops and maintains electronic cost estimating databases.
  • Prepares reports, charts, and graphs of findings.
  • Works on continuously improving the cost estimation process using organizational change management practices and techniques.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree and three or more years' experience in finance, accounting, or business administration. Equivalent experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must have a general knowledge and competence in the concepts, principles, and standard practices in costing.
  • Must have experience negotiating and working in a contracting environment and be able to analyze and solve a variety of moderately complex costing problems.
  • Must have good interpersonal skills and communication skills, both verbal and written and be computer literate with knowledge of computer applications relevant to the position, including spreadsheet applications.
  • Must be able to work extended hours when required.
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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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