Independent Contractor Architect Jobs in Puerto Rico

Cost Estimator (School Infrastructure Program)
The Cost Estimator will support the Puerto Rico Department of Education (PRDE) School Infrastructure Program by developing, analyzing, and managing cost estimates for school construction, repair, and modernization projects. This role is responsible for preparing accurate and defensible cost estimates throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring alignment with budgets, funding requirements, and program controls. The estimator will work closely with engineers, architects, project managers, and contractors to support informed decision‐making and fiscal accountability.
Key Responsibilities

Cost Estimating & Analysis

• Develop detailed cost estimates for school infrastructure projects, including new construction, renovations, and repairs.
• Prepare conceptual (order‐of‐magnitude), preliminary, and detailed estimates based on project phase.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and technical documentation to determine material, labor, and equipment costs.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and validate contractor estimates for accuracy and completeness.

Budgeting & Cost Control

• Support development and maintenance of project budgets and cost baselines.
• Monitor cost trends, variances, and forecasts across the program portfolio.
• Assist in value engineering efforts and identify cost‐saving opportunities without compromising quality or compliance.

Procurement & Contract Support

• Support procurement activities by developing independent cost estimates (ICEs) for bids and proposals.
• Analyze submitted bids and provide recommendations on cost reasonableness.
• Assist with change order evaluations, cost negotiations, and contract modifications.

Data Management & Reporting

• Maintain standardized cost databases, unit pricing, and historical cost data for PRDE projects.
• Prepare cost reports, dashboards, and briefings for program leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure cost documentation is organized, traceable, and compliant with PRDE and funding agency requirements.

Compliance & Coordination

• Ensure estimates align with applicable construction codes, PRDE standards, and funding program requirements (e.g., federal recovery funds, if applicable).
• Coordinate with project managers, design teams, consultants, and contractors to validate assumptions and cost drivers.
• Support audits, reviews, and funding agency inquiries related to cost documentation.
  Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Architecture, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of cost estimating experience in construction, infrastructure, or capital improvement programs.
• Experience preparing estimates using industry tools (e.g., RSMeans, Bluebeam, CostX, Excel, or similar).
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and pricing.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with school, government, or public infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with Puerto Rico construction market conditions and cost factors.
• Experience with federally funded programs (e.g., FEMA, CDBG‐DR, or similar).
• Professional certifications (e.g., Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), CCP, or equivalent).
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English (written and verbal).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Effective communication skills for presenting cost information to technical and non‐technical audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong problem‐solving and critical‐thinking capabilities.

Working Conditions

• Office environment with periodic travel to project sites across Puerto Rico as needed.
• May require extended hours to meet deadlines associated with bids, funding submissions, or program milestones.

Plexos Group LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and performance, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law. Plexos Group is committed to providing a workplace environment free from discrimination and ensuring equal opportunity for all employees.

Under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968, additional preference will be given to Section 3 residents in the Puerto Rico area who meet the requirements of this position