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General Construction Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The General Construction Cost Estimator plays a key role in supporting pre-construction efforts by collaborating with Owners, State Agencies, Architects, Engineers, and Construction Managers to ...

Construction Estimator

Burlington, NJ ยท On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

This position is not entry-level and requires a general contractor's approach and knowledge of all specialty trades. An individual with several years of building construction cost estimating ...

If you're experienced in writing detailed and accurate estimates for both commercial and some ... Perform detailed site assessments to capture all necessary aspects of framing, general construction ...

If you're experienced in writing detailed and accurate estimates for both commercial and some ... Perform detailed site assessments to capture all necessary aspects of framing, general construction ...

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General Construction Estimator information

See salary details

$35.5K

$83K

$135K

How much do general construction estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for general construction estimator in the United States is $83,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a general construction estimator?

To thrive as a General Construction Estimator, you need strong mathematical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of construction methods, typically supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Proficiency with estimating software like Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or ProEst, as well as familiarity with project management and cost databases, is essential. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, and project teams. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate cost projections, minimize financial risk, and contribute to the overall success and profitability of construction projects.

Are general construction estimators in high demand?

General construction estimators are in high demand due to ongoing construction projects and infrastructure development. Their skills in cost analysis, project bidding, and familiarity with estimating software are highly valued in the industry, which often experiences steady growth and hiring needs.

What is the difference between General Construction Estimator vs Construction Cost Analyst?

AspectGeneral Construction EstimatorConstruction Cost Analyst
CredentialsEstimating certifications, construction experienceCost analysis certifications, financial background
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, officesOffices, project management teams
Industry UsageConstruction companies, contractorsConsulting firms, project owners

The main difference is that a General Construction Estimator focuses on preparing cost estimates for construction projects, while a Construction Cost Analyst specializes in analyzing and controlling project costs to optimize budgets. Both roles require estimating skills, but their focus and application differ within the construction industry.

What are common challenges faced by general construction estimators in managing project budgets and timelines?

General Construction Estimators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating material costs, incomplete project specifications, and tight bidding deadlines. Effectively managing these factors requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with project managers, suppliers, and subcontractors. Staying updated on market trends and maintaining accurate cost databases can help mitigate risks, while consistent collaboration with the project team ensures that estimates remain realistic and aligned with project goals.

What does a general construction estimator do?

A General Construction Estimator is responsible for calculating the total costs associated with a construction project before work begins. This involves analyzing blueprints, specifications, and other documentation to determine the necessary materials, labor, equipment, and time required. Estimators also prepare detailed cost breakdowns and collaborate with project managers, engineers, and contractors to ensure accurate and competitive bids. Their work helps organizations forecast budgets, avoid cost overruns, and ensure project profitability.

Is a general construction estimator a good career?

A general construction estimator is a viable career that involves assessing project costs, preparing bids, and working closely with contractors and clients. It requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of construction methods, and often a background in engineering or construction management. The role offers steady employment opportunities and potential for advancement in the construction industry.
More about General Construction Estimator jobs
Infographic showing various General Construction Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,002 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

General Construction Estimator

YA Group

Pittsburgh, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Role:
The General Construction Cost Estimator plays a key role in supporting pre-construction efforts by collaborating with Owners, State Agencies, Architects, Engineers, and Construction Managers to understand project needs and translate them into accurate, reliable cost estimates. This role requires strong technical knowledge of construction methods, the ability to analyze both detailed and conceptual project information, and the communication skills to convey findings to multiple stakeholders. The Estimator will ensure that project scope and budgets remain aligned throughout the pre-construction phase.
In this role, you will:
  • Review and interpret construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and narratives.
  • Participate in client and internal project kick-off meetings.
  • Develop and submit RFIs and solicit quotes from suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Perform quantity take-offs using OST, Sage, BIM, and other estimating software.
  • Apply appropriate unit pricing using historical data, vendor quotes, and market benchmarks.
  • Conduct comparative cost analyses to identify opportunities for budget alignment.
  • Maintain strong, positive working relationships with contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders.
  • Prepare organized, standardized estimate reports for client and internal use.
  • Deliver estimates and follow up with clients in a timely manner.
  • Support closeout documentation efforts as needed.
  • Contribute to improvements in estimating processes and best practices.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

What You Bring:
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in estimating or related field work.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Experience with OST, or similar estimating software preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Title and pay commensurate with experience. This role offers clear opportunities for career progression, with advancement based on performance and impact.
Applicants with Military backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Who We Are:
YA Group is an international professional services organization providing forensic consulting, engineering, risk mitigation, and related services. Founded over 25 years ago as a property damage consulting firm, YA has expanded through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Today, YA has over 800 professionals dedicated to excellence, partnership, and driving innovation.
Planning and Construction Advisory Services (PCAS), a Business Unit of YA, specializes in pre-construction and construction consulting, including cost estimating, scheduling, and constructability reviews. Known for accuracy and strategic insight, PCAS helps clients align scope, schedule, and budget from the earliest planning stages through project execution.
What We Offer:
  • Employee-focused culture
  • Strong commitment to work-life balance
  • Remote work
  • Flexible vacation & Paid holidays
  • Paid family care/sick leave
  • Parental leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision + more
  • 401k w/match
  • Career growth
  • Competitive salaries + Bonus

Title and pay commensurate with experience. This role offers clear opportunities for career progression, with advancement based on performance and impact.
Applicants with Military backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Fraudulent Recruitment Alert:
Please be vigilant against fraudulent recruitment attempts. YA will never ask for personal financial information (such as bank account numbers or identification numbers) via social media or chat-based apps. We also will not request money for the purchase of business equipment or conduct interviews solely via text message.
All official email communications regarding your application will come from notify@dayforce.com or directly from a member of our talent team using an @yagroup.com domain name.
If you suspect any fraudulent activity, please contact us directly at careers@yagroup.com.
Disclosures:
As part of our recruitment process, we may use AI-assisted tools to support candidate screening and evaluation. These tools are designed to assist-rather than replace-human decision-making, and all employment decisions are made by our recruiting team in accordance with applicable laws and our commitment to equal employment opportunity. Where required by law, we will provide additional information about the use of these tools, including their purpose, and offer alternative processes or accommodations upon request.