1

Estimating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vice President, Estimating

Glastonbury, CT · On-site +1

$220K - $225K/yr

Ensure all estimates are accurate and have considered all risk factors. * Review designs and specifications for cost-effectiveness and suggest appropriate alternatives * Create detailed, market ...

Cost Estimating Manager III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$112K - $205K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Cost Estimating Manager to join our Cost Engineering team, located in our Rancho Bernardo facility. This is a working manager role. This position is responsible ...

Cost Estimating Manager I

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$81K - $145K/yr

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Cost Estimating Manager to work within our Airport Business Management (ABM) department. This position is onsite at Flight Operations in Palmdale, CA ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Estimating information

See salary details

$27.5K

$81.7K

$137.5K

How much do estimating jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimating in the United States is $81,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Estimating, and why are they important?

To thrive in Estimating, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in mathematics or engineering, often supported by relevant industry experience or a degree. Proficiency with estimation software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or Microsoft Excel, and sometimes certifications like the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and negotiation abilities are standout soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and managing project timelines. These combined skills ensure accurate cost projections, minimize financial risk, and contribute to successful project execution.

Is estimating a stressful job?

Estimating can be stressful due to the need for accuracy, tight deadlines, and managing client or project expectations. It requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and often involves working under pressure to deliver precise cost and time projections.

Is estimating a good career?

Estimating is a valuable career in construction, manufacturing, and engineering industries, involving calculating costs, materials, and timeframes for projects. It requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with tools like spreadsheets and estimating software. The profession offers steady employment opportunities and potential for advancement with experience and certifications.

How much do estimators earn?

Estimators typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior estimators or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually. The role often requires proficiency with estimating software and strong analytical skills.

How do I get a job as an estimator?

To become an estimator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many roles preferring a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in estimating software, and obtaining certifications like the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) can improve job prospects.

What does an estimator do?

An estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and calculating the expected costs, materials, labor, and time needed to complete a job. Estimators work in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering, to prepare accurate bids and budgets for projects. Their role involves reviewing blueprints, collaborating with suppliers and subcontractors, and ensuring that estimates are thorough and competitive. Accurate estimating is crucial for helping companies win contracts and manage project profitability.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in estimating roles, and how can they be managed?

One of the most common challenges in estimating is managing incomplete or ambiguous project information, which can make it difficult to produce accurate cost projections. Estimators often need to work closely with project managers, engineers, and clients to clarify requirements and fill in information gaps. Additionally, tight deadlines and frequent revisions are typical, so strong organizational and communication skills are essential. Staying updated on market rates for materials and labor, as well as using specialized estimating software, can help mitigate risks and improve accuracy.
More about Estimating jobs
What cities are hiring for Estimating jobs? Cities with the most Estimating job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Estimating jobs? The most popular types of Estimating jobs are:
What states have the most Estimating jobs? States with the most job openings for Estimating jobs include:
Estimating Engineer 3 - PEMB

Estimating Engineer 3 - PEMB

Cornerstone Building Brands

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Cornerstone Building Brands rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

448th of 529 rated manufacturers


Job description

Company Description

Cornerstone Building Brands is a leading manufacturer of exterior building products for residential and low-rise non-residential buildings in North America. Headquartered in Cary, N.C., we serve residential and commercial customers across the new construction and Repair & Remodel (R&R) markets. Our market-leading portfolio of products spans vinyl windows, vinyl siding, stone veneer, metal roofing, metal wall systems and metal accessories. Cornerstone Building Brands’ broad, multi-channel distribution platform and expansive national footprint includes more than 18,800 team members at manufacturing, distribution and office locations throughout North America. Corporate stewardship and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibility are embedded in our culture. We are committed to contributing positively to the communities where we live, work and play. For more information, visit us at cornerstonebuildingbrands.com.

Job Description

This role is responsible for providing direct pricing and design support to internal and external customers on design/build and publicly bid projects using the most current pricing available. They apply knowledge of structures, materials and construction techniques to support Field Sales and Estimators related to advanced design considerations and ensuring estimate designs are being done in accordance with the high standards of the organization.

BASIC FUNCTION:

  • Prepares calculations and engineering details from information received such as contract drawings, specifications, and addendums using in-house pricing programs and supplemental design programs.
  • Provide accurate and easy-to-follow designs that meet code requirements and manufacturing restraints.
  • Provides detailed consultation to Builders, Field Sales and Estimators regarding building codes, complex framing scenarios and non-standard geometries.
  • Identifies exclusions, discrepancies, missing information and obtains clarification and qualifies the quotation based on that information. 
  • Evaluates customer provided information for cost effective solutions (value engineering). 
  • Ensures the use of the most current pricing information when preparing the estimate.
  • Builds and maintains Builder/Vendor relationships. 
  • Provides training to Builder Network and Field Sales on proper use of inhouse pricing tool.
  • Communicates with Builders, Sales, Customer Service and Engineering regarding any clarification of scope/design intent that the Sales Engineer was involved in.
  • Self performs and/or checks complex estimates. 
  • Continually improve productivity, accuracy and ability.
  • Continually expand engineering knowledge so that a Professional Engineering License can be obtained and maintained.
  • Understand the role in the overall system and be willing to step outside that role when required.
  • Reports to Estimating Manager.
  • Work related travel would typically be less than 2 times per year
Qualifications

Level II 

  • Licensed Professional Engineer preferred
  • Minimum of 4-years metal building design experience or related field
  • Advanced PEMB knowledge in both product offerings and design considerations.
  • Train and mentor less experienced Sales Engineers and Estimators
  • Provides preliminary design for estimation of Requests for Building Modifications (RBMs).
  • Represents the company as an engineering advisor in sales meetings.

Level III 

  • Licensed Professional Engineer required
  • This role is one of a senior engineer that has mastered PEMB design concepts and application as it applies to Estimating.
  • Provide supervision in the absence of Estimating Manager and provide technical support for Estimating staff.
  • Provide engineering expertise as needed across the corporate design community
  • Minimum of 10-years metal building design experience or related field

Additional Information

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $100,000 - 120,000 + 10% bonus + medical, dental, vision benefits starting day 1 + 401k and PTO. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. (Full-time is defined as regularly working 30+ hours per week.)

*Full-time is defined as regularly working 30+ hours per week. **Union programs may vary depending on the collective bargaining agreement.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Why work for Cornerstone Building Brands? 

Our teams are at the heart of our purpose to positively contribute to the communities where we live, work and play. Full-time* team members receive** medical, dental and vision benefits starting day 1. Other benefits include PTO, paid holidays, FSA, life insurance, LTD, STD, 401k, EAP, discount programs, tuition reimbursement, training, and professional development. 

*Full-time is defined as regularly working 30+ hours per week. **Union programs may vary depending on the collective bargaining agreement.

Cornerstone Building Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, or status as a protected veteran. You can find the Equal Employment Opportunity Poster here. You can also view Your Right to Work Poster here along with This Organizations Participation in E-Verify Poster here. If you'd like to view a copy of the company's affirmative action plan for protected veterans or individuals with disabilities or policy statement, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or HRCompliance@cornerstone-bb.com. If you have a disability and you believe that you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or HRCompliance@cornerstone-bb.com. This email is used exclusively to assist disabled job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Only emails received for this purpose will be returned. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or technical issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) of 2018

Must be at least 18 years of age to apply.

Note to External Recruiters

Cornerstone Building Brands does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not pay fees for any candidate submissions that were not expressly authorized.

Notice of Recruitment Fraud

We have been made aware of multiple scams whereby unauthorized individuals are using Cornerstone Building Brand's name and logo to solicit potential job-seekers for employment. In some cases, job-seekers are being contacted directly, both by phone and e-mail. In other instances, these unauthorized individuals are placing advertisements for fake positions with both legitimate websites and fabricated ones. These individuals are typically promising high-paying jobs with the requirement that the job-seeker send money to pay for things such as visa applications or processing fees. Please be advised that Cornerstone Building Brands will never ask potential job-seekers for any sort of advance payment or bank account information as part of the recruiting or hiring process.


What Cornerstone Building Brands employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Cornerstone Building Brands logo

About Cornerstone Building Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cornerstone Building Brands is the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America. Our comprehensive portfolio spans the breadth of the residential and commercial markets, while our expansive footprint enables us to serve customers and communities across North America. Our relentless focus on excellence combined with our ongoing commitment to innovation and R&D has driven us to become the #1 manufacturer of windows, vinyl siding, insulated metal panels, metal roofing and wall systems, and metal accessories. We believe every building we create, and every part of that building, positively contributes to communities where people live, work and play.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cary, NC, US

Year founded

1984