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Estimator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Cost Analyst/ Cost Estimator Location: Redstone Arsenal - Huntsville, AL (On-site) Canvas provides engineering services and technical solutions for customers in federal and commercial markets. We are ...

Cost Analyst/ Cost Estimator Location: Redstone Arsenal - Huntsville, AL (On-site) Canvas provides engineering services and technical solutions for customers in federal and commercial markets. We are ...

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Estimators * Detailers * Checkers * Drafters * Manufacturing Engineer at manufacturing plant in Portland, Tennessee Qualifications & Skills * Experience in estimating, design, or detailing utilizing ...

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Estimator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$29.1K

$68.7K

$119.1K

How much do estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for estimator in Decatur, AL is $68,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $81,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in construction, engineering, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or professional experience. Familiarity with estimating software (such as Bluebeam, ProEst, or PlanSwift), cost databases, and Microsoft Excel is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, and project teams. These competencies ensure accurate cost projections, minimize financial risks, and contribute to successful project planning and execution.

What does an Estimator do?

An Estimator is responsible for assessing the costs and resources required for a project, typically in construction, manufacturing, or engineering. They analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, and labor estimates. Estimators play a crucial role in helping companies determine the feasibility of projects, set budgets, and prepare competitive bids. Their work ensures that projects are completed within budget and helps prevent costly overruns.

What Is an Estimator?

An estimator is a professional, often in the construction trade, whose job it is to deliver an accurate estimate of the cost of work requested by a potential client, usually to bid for a project. Estimators must understand the full scope of the project, as well as the material and labor costs, to provide an accurate estimate of costs. Estimators are good with math, have a sense of the common problems which may arise during a project, and can account for variances in materials and labor costs to provide accurate estimations.

How does an Estimator typically collaborate with project managers and other team members during the bidding process?

Estimators work closely with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to gather project requirements, clarify scope, and identify potential risks. During the bidding process, they participate in meetings to review plans, discuss material options, and ensure that their cost projections align with project goals. Effective communication and coordination with these stakeholders are crucial, as estimators often need to adjust estimates based on new information or feedback. This collaborative approach helps create accurate, competitive bids and supports successful project execution.
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Estimator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Estimator job openings:
Infographic showing various Estimator job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,691 per year, or $33 per hour.
Cost Estimator/Cost Analyst

Cost Estimator/Cost Analyst

Tecolote Research

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Overview
Seeking a highly motivated entry-level Cost Analyst to support NASA programs. This role is ideal for candidates with 0-3 years of relevant experience in cost estimating, cost engineering, operations research, or systems engineering within the Government or Aerospace industry. The ideal candidate will be a critical thinker with strong analytical, communication, and technical skills. This position requires 0-3 years of experience with a Bachelor's degree required in the following: Management, Business, Economics, Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Engineering, or Statistics.
Responsibilities
  • Support the development of cost estimates for government and aerospace programs, primarily in support of NASA.
  • Gather, interpret, and analyze technical, programmatic, schedule, labor, and cost data.
  • Prepare Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), charts, tables, graphs, and diagrams to support cost and program analysis.
  • Utilize statistical and regression analysis, learning curves, cost accounting principles, and cost estimating relationships (CERs).
  • Perform cost-benefit and risk analysis studies to support decision-making.
  • Estimate impacts of project and program change requests and major additions.
  • Analyze raw engineering and cost data and operate parametric and quantitative risk assessment models.
  • Create, document, and present cost estimates using tools such as PCEC, NICM, SEER, PRICE TruePlanning, MOCET, LSOCM, ACEIT, and Excel.
  • Test and validate the integration of new or enhanced estimating models.
  • May interact with senior NASA officials and communicate with prime contractor personnel.
  • Work closely with and support analysts on large or technically complex projects.
  • Develop approaches and solutions to cost analysis issues and challenges.
  • Collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Skills Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Mathematics, Economics, Operations Research, or a related field.
  • 0-3 years of experience in cost estimating, cost engineering, operations research, or systems engineering in the Government or Aerospace industry.
  • Some experience with cost estimating is required.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, particularly Excel; strong skills in PowerPoint and Word.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong analytical, statistical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with NASA programs or government contracting environments.
  • Experience with developing Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).
  • Exposure to cost estimating methodologies and operations research techniques.
  • Proficiency with industry cost estimation tools such as ACEIT, SEER, or PRICE.

Education
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences.