ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Vierbicher Associates, Inc

Project Engineer 1

Madison, WI · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Calculate quantity take-offs and develop reliable cost estimates for construction materials and ... Technical Proficiency : Entry-level proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is required. Familiarity with ...

JT Engineering, Inc.

Civil Engineer

Oregon, WI · On-site

A Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university * Entry level to 3 ... and cost-effective service. Our design and construction professionals work closely together ...

Symphony Corp

Application Architect I

Madison, WI

The end result is rapid implementation, cost efficiencies and scalable technology applications that ... Provide architectural guidance to developers regarding the following core development technologies:

Symphony Corp

Application Architect I

Madison, WI · On-site

The end result is rapid implementation, cost efficiencies and scalable technology applications that ... Provide architectural guidance to developers regarding the following core development technologies:

All JobsCost Engineer JobsEntry Level Cost Engineer JobsEntry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Entry Level Cost Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$45.8K

$97.8K

$140.6K

How much do entry level cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cost engineer in Madison, WI is $97,788.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,600.00 and $114,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cost Engineer vs Cost Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Cost EngineerCost Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or related field; certifications like CPC or CMA advantageous
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering firms, project officesCorporate offices, financial departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, engineering, infrastructure projectsFinance, manufacturing, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Cost Engineer and Cost Analyst roles share similarities in requiring analytical skills and cost management knowledge. However, the Cost Engineer focuses more on project cost estimation and engineering aspects, while the Cost Analyst emphasizes financial analysis and budgeting. Both roles are essential in their industries and often overlap in skills, but their primary focus and work environments differ.

What are the typical day-to-day tasks of an entry level cost engineer?

As an Entry Level Cost Engineer, your daily responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing cost data, preparing cost estimates, monitoring project budgets, and reporting on financial progress to the project management team. You'll frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and procurement teams to ensure all cost-related information is accurate and up to date. Your attention to detail and ability to communicate findings help the team make informed decisions, control expenses, and keep projects on track financially. This role provides a strong foundation in project controls and financial management, offering valuable experience for future career advancement.

What does an entry level cost engineer do?

An entry level cost engineer is responsible for assisting with the estimation, analysis, and control of project costs in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering. They help prepare cost estimates, monitor project budgets, and analyze financial data to ensure projects stay within financial targets. Their role often involves working closely with project managers and other teams to track expenses, forecast future costs, and identify potential savings. Entry level cost engineers are typically supervised and receive on-the-job training to develop their technical and analytical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cost engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cost Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, analytical thinking, and a relevant degree such as engineering, construction management, or finance. Familiarity with cost estimating software (like CostX or Sage Estimating), Excel, and basic project management tools is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate with teams and manage project budgets efficiently. Mastering these skills ensures accurate cost control, timely project delivery, and supports informed decision-making in construction and engineering projects.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? For Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs near you

Project Engineer 1

Vierbicher Associates, Inc

Madison, WI • On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Vierbicher is a team of professional engineers, planners, community development specialists, land surveyors and GIS specialists who provide comprehensive solutions for a wide range of projects. Our goal is to provide clients with creative consulting services and quality products, enabling them to efficiently and effectively meet their goals. We work to build strong relationships with our clients that promote trust, cooperation and teamwork.
Now in our 50th year, we are proud to be an employee-owned firm recognized by Zweig Group as one of 2026's Best Firms To Work For, our fourth time earning the honor, and named to its Hot Firm list of the fastest-growing firms in the industry. We believe that recognition reflects the people behind it, the same people who own the firm and shape its future.
As a Project Engineer 1, you will be responsible for executing technical civil engineering design and evaluations across diverse projects in Southeastern Wisconsin. You will be instrumental in delivering projects successfully by managing scope, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring work is completed on time and within budget.
Key Responsibilities:
Design & Engineering Execution
  • Complete the full design cycle using AutoCAD Civil 3D to create comprehensive site and infrastructure plans. This includes detailed street design (plan & profile, cross-sections), precise grading and erosion control plans, and the engineering of stormwater management, sanitary sewer, and water distribution systems.
  • Conduct thorough site investigations and due diligence to identify constraints and inform effective design strategies.
  • Calculate quantity take-offs and develop reliable cost estimates for construction materials and labor.
  • Assist with the preparation of technical specifications and construction documents.

Compliance & Project Delivery
  • Prepare and submit all necessary permit applications to local and state agencies.
  • Ensure compliance with all local ordinances, state codes, engineering guidelines, and best practices.
  • Perform construction administration and site observation duties, serving as a representative of the design team in the field.

Requirements
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Technical Proficiency: Entry-level proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is required. Familiarity with other civil engineering design and GIS tools is a plus.
  • Design & Construction Knowledge: Working knowledge of construction activities, best practices, and the field aspects of site development projects is preferred.
  • Project Management Fundamentals: Excellent organizational skills combined with a proven ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet project deadlines.
  • Professional Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills necessary to articulate technical issues, coordinate with team members, and interface with clients or review agencies.
  • Teamwork: The ability to work productively and independently, while also contributing effectively as a collaborative member of a project team.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in calculations, plans, and technical documentation.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering is required
  • Previous intern or co-op experience in the civil industry is preferred

License or Certification Requirements:
  • Professional Engineer License (PE) for the State of Wisconsin is preferred, or actively working toward taking the PE exam.
  • EIT License is preferred

Physical Requirements:
  • This position requires sitting at a desk and working at a computer for long period of time
  • Some work may include field work
  • This position requires the ability to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds

PPE Requirements:
  • Hi-Visibility clothing should be worn on job sites and in the field as necessary

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Our company does not sponsor employment visas (such as H-1B, TN, etc.) for this role.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Apply