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Entry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

... ground treatment. Entry level engineers plan, observe and document field explorations and ... Prepare cost estimates, schedules and construction documents, monitor construction activities in ...

... ground treatment. Entry level engineers plan, observe and document field explorations and ... Prepare cost estimates, schedules and construction documents, monitor construction activities in ...

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ... Plan sheet, detail drawings, specifications, and construction cost estimate development for ...

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ... Plan sheet, detail drawings, specifications, and construction cost estimate development for ...

We are a team that values innovation, collaboration, and engineering excellence, and we are ... This entry-level role follows established test procedures, documents results with precision, and ...

Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration ... PwC does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in the ...

Showing results 21-39

Entry Level Cost Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.3K

$102.9K

$147.9K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cost engineer in Portland, OR is $102,920.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $120,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cost Engineer job openings in Portland, OR 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, with an average salary of $102,920 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Plant Process Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Pella Corporation

Portland, OR • On-site

$27.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Pella rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

SUMMARY PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Focused responsibilities of assigned projects for a limited duration; supporting the objectives of quality, time, and cost.  Further developing engineering skills and gaining exposure to Pella Corporation's functional teams. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

 

EXPERIENCE:

Entry level; 0-2 years combined engineering experience.  Previous Co-op experience preferred for full-time employment.

 

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT:

Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, or relevant Science. Responsible for learning Pella's systems and tools used in Engineering role.

 SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Engineering Intern

 

Responsibilities: Minimum 10-week, full-time assignment.  Focus on developing competencies, engineering skills and how/when to apply them.  Work closely with assigned manager/mentor on strategic projects and focused developmental opportunities. Differentiated placement from previous Co-op experience, preferred. 

Supervisory responsibilities:  None   

Travel expectations:  Minimal, but required.

Computer skills: Microsoft Office applications 

Technical / functional skills:  Previous Co-op experience preferred

Safety:  Periodically exposed to machinery where safe operating procedures must be followed, occasional lifting of materials up to 30 lbs. is required, work environment may be noisy. 

Certificates, licenses, and registrations: None

Leadership competencies: Apply technical and functional expertise, Manage and improve processes, Foster collaboration, Establish plans, Drive execution 

Preferred Degree Areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Industrial Technology
  • Other related engineering disciplines

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. Preferred majors are listed above.
  • Strong academic standing
  • Demonstrated leadership, teamwork, or involvement through campus organizations, work experience, athletics, volunteer activities, or other experiences
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
  • Experience with CAD software such as Solid Edge, AutoCAD, or similar platforms preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Experience leading projects, initiatives, or team efforts from planning through execution preferred
  • Ability to succeed in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Compensation: The starting pay rate for this position is $27.90 per hour. Compensation for this role is established through Pella Corporation's internship program. Eligible participants may receive transition assistance in accordance with company policies and program guidelines.

Pella Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Smoke Free Environment. 

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:

Pella Corporation is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Tobacco-Free Work Environment.  Post-offer background check and drug screen required.  Pella participates in E- Verify.  Pella will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

Pella Corporation provides a working environment free of discrimination and harassment.  Pella Corporation treats all persons equally, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability, as each is protected under federal law. Several states in which Pella operates have laws protecting classifications of Team Members not necessarily protected under federal law. Therefore, Pella also treats all persons equally, regardless of political affiliation and belief, pregnancy, national origin, age, creed, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, mental disorder, veteran status, ancestry or handicap as each category is protected under a municipal ordinance or state law. 

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you will support manufacturing operations through project work focused on process improvement, problem solving, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency. Interns are given ownership of meaningful projects and work alongside experienced engineers and mentors to develop technical, professional, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities are similar to what we expect of entry-level engineers who join Pella after graduation.

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you may:

  • Modify and improve manufacturing processes to improve quality, increase reliability, reduce costs, and eliminate waste
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives using problem-solving and engineering methodologies
  • Develop or enhance manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling
  • Specify, design, and procure equipment required to support manufacturing and new product initiatives
  • Implement new processes from concept through production
  • Analyze manufacturing data and recommend solutions that improve operational performance
  • Partner with engineering, operations, maintenance, quality, and other cross-functional teams to support business objectives

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 

SCOPE:

Projects and tasks as assigned by supervisor or mentor.  Focused effort on developing engineering skills within and across many Pella Corp. functions.

 

SUPERVISING OTHERS:

None.

APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE:

Performs work which requires application of developing engineering skills to conventional types of tasks.

Gains exposure to Pella's application of engineering technologies within fenestration industry.  Learns how to apply engineering tools to deliver business results.

 

JUDGMENT:

Applies basic engineering and scientific techniques, processes, and criteria to develop engineering judgment.  Assignments have clear, specific objectives.


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About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925