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Estimation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Estimating Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$85K - $125K/yr

Position Summary The Estimating Engineer is responsible for preparing accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for Architectural Joint Sealants and Air/Water Barrier systems. This role supports ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Modesto, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

George Reed, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$115K - $130K/yr

Responsibility includes estimating and engineering of projects both public and private agency ... Assists estimators with bid preparation, at times performs initial bid review, and prepares ...

Kevin Edward

Construction Estimator

Napa, CA · On-site

... estimators, engineering, operations, and accounting teams • Review subcontractor and supplier pricing for compliance and competitiveness • Develop and maintain historical cost databases and ...

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All JobsEstimation Engineer JobsEstimation Engineer Jobs in California

Estimation Engineer information

See California salary details

$12

$55

$79

How much do estimation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for estimation engineer in California is $55.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.62 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Estimation Engineers?

Estimation Engineers are professionals responsible for calculating the costs, resources, and time required for engineering projects. They analyze project specifications, collaborate with other departments, and use specialized software to prepare detailed estimates. Their work helps companies make informed decisions when bidding on projects and planning budgets. Estimation Engineers play a vital role in ensuring that projects are financially viable and delivered within budget constraints.

What is the work of an estimation engineer?

An estimation engineer is responsible for calculating the costs, resources, and time required for construction or manufacturing projects. They analyze project plans, prepare detailed cost estimates, and collaborate with teams to ensure budgets and schedules are accurate and achievable, often using specialized software. Their work helps ensure projects are financially feasible and completed within budget.

How does an Estimation Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project bid?

Estimation Engineers frequently work closely with departments such as procurement, engineering, and project management to gather accurate cost data, review technical specifications, and ensure all aspects of the bid are covered. This collaboration often involves regular meetings, document reviews, and clarifications to align on project requirements and constraints. Effective teamwork is essential, as Estimation Engineers rely on input from various specialists to produce precise and competitive estimates. Strong communication and coordination skills are key to navigating these interactions and delivering successful proposals.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Estimation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Estimation Engineer, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in engineering or construction, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with estimation software like AutoCAD, CostX, or Microsoft Excel, and sometimes certifications like AACE or PMP, are commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and teamwork help you collaborate effectively with project managers and clients. These skills ensure accurate cost assessments, minimize project risks, and support successful project planning and execution.

What do engineering estimators do?

An estimation engineer calculates the costs, resources, and time required for engineering projects by analyzing project plans, specifications, and market prices. They use tools like spreadsheets and estimation software to prepare accurate cost estimates, supporting project budgeting and bidding processes.

What is the role of an estimating engineer?

An estimating engineer is responsible for preparing cost estimates for construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects by analyzing project specifications, drawings, and material costs. They use specialized software and industry knowledge to ensure accurate budgeting and help guide project bids and planning. Attention to detail and understanding of engineering principles are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Estimation Engineer vs Cost Engineer?

AspectEstimation EngineerCost Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; certifications like AACE or PMI often preferredBachelor's in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; certifications like AACE or PMI often preferred
Work EnvironmentPre-construction phase, project bidding, proposal developmentProject execution, cost control, budgeting, and financial analysis
Industry UsageConstruction, engineering, manufacturingConstruction, engineering, infrastructure projects

Estimation Engineers primarily focus on preparing cost estimates during project bidding and planning stages, while Cost Engineers monitor and control project costs during execution. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industries, but their responsibilities differ in project lifecycle stages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Estimation Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Estimation Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Estimation Engineer jobs in California? For Estimation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Estimation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Estimation Engineer jobs in California are:
Estimation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Estimation Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,938 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Engineer, State Estimation (Dallas/San Diego/Boston/ DC/ San Fran)

Engineer, State Estimation (Dallas/San Diego/Boston/ DC/ San Fran)

Shield AI

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
As a State Estimation Engineer, you will play a critical role on the GNC team, contributing to the development, optimization, and deployment of advanced sensor fusion and navigation algorithms for autonomous UAV operations in dynamic and contested environments. You will help design real-time sensor processing pipelines, integrate multi-sensor data for robust state estimation, and collaborate closely with autonomy researchers, software engineers, and hardware teams to ensure high system performance and reliability.
 
Your work will support the transition of cutting-edge research into fielded capabilities, helping Shield AI deliver precision navigation solutions for mission-critical applications.
What you'll do:
  • Develop and implement real-time state estimation algorithms including inertial navigation, sensor fusion, and alternative navigation methods for GPS-denied or degraded environments.
  • Integrate data from IMUs, GNSS receivers, visual odometry, magnetometers, barometers, and radar into robust estimation frameworks.
  • Design sensor processing pipelines focused on accuracy, robustness, and system-level fault tolerance.
  • Collaborate with autonomy, software, and hardware teams to ensure end-to-end integration of navigation and PNT systems.
  • Conduct simulation, lab testing, and field trials to evaluate algorithm performance under real-world conditions.
  • Stay current on advancements in state estimation and navigation technologies and help adapt new innovations into deployable solutions.
Required qualifications:
  • Typically requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a bachelor’s degree; or 2 years with a master’s degree; or 1 years with a PhD; or equivalent practical experience.
  • Familiarity with algorithms.
  • Proficient in C++11 or newer in real-time environments.
  • Comfortable working in Linux, with experience using standard command-line tools and scripting.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative mindset.
  • Demonstrated success working in fast-paced development cycles and delivering high-quality results.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience developing and deploying real-time navigation or sensor fusion algorithms using IMUs, GPS, or other sensors.
  • Strong understanding of filtering and estimation techniques (e.g., Kalman filters, EKF, UKF, particle filters).
  • Experience implementing inertial navigation algorithms in degraded or GPS-denied conditions.
  • Exposure to visual odometry or computer vision-based navigation approaches.
  • Experience optimizing code for performance on compute-constrained platforms.
  • Familiarity with CUDA or hardware acceleration techniques (e.g., FPGAs).
  • Experience transitioning navigation solutions from research into production environments.
#LI-SM1
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.