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Principal Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Estimator Located: Houston Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Principal Estimator with a strong background in project controls to join our team. This position will be located ...

Develop the estimate and implementation plan with the project team Perform peer review of estimates, as assigned Present estimates to Fluor Management and the Client as a credible expert; able to ...

Sales Administrator

Broadview, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Sales Administrator- Manufacturing Principal Manufacturing is seeking a Sales Administrator to join ... estimates, and managing the quote pipeline. This position serves as the central point of ...

The Principal Construction Estimator should have a minimum of 10 years of a combination of field and/or estimating experience, preferably with an at-risk direct-hire multi-disciplinary heavy civil ...

The Principal Construction Estimator should have a minimum of 10 years of a combination of field and/or estimating experience, preferably with an at-risk direct-hire multi-disciplinary heavy civil ...

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Principal Estimator information

See salary details

$20K

$84.6K

$129.5K

How much do principal estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal estimator in the United States is $84,586.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Principal Estimators?

Principal Estimators are senior professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the cost estimation process on large or complex projects, typically within construction, engineering, or manufacturing industries. They lead teams of estimators, develop detailed project budgets, review bids, and ensure that all cost projections are accurate and align with project requirements. Their expertise helps organizations make informed decisions on project feasibility, budgeting, and resource allocation.

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

To thrive as a Principal Estimator, you need advanced knowledge of cost estimation, project management, and industry standards, typically supported by a degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Expertise with estimation software (such as CostX, Sage Estimating, or Bluebeam), spreadsheet tools, and sometimes professional certifications like AACE’s Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and foster collaboration with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering reliable project estimates, minimizing financial risk, and supporting successful project outcomes.

How does a Principal Estimator typically collaborate with project managers and engineers throughout the project lifecycle?

A Principal Estimator works closely with project managers and engineers from the initial bid phase through project execution. They review project plans, clarify scope with design teams, and incorporate feedback from engineering to develop accurate cost estimates. Throughout the lifecycle, they participate in value engineering sessions, help resolve discrepancies in bids, and provide updated forecasts as design or scope changes occur. This collaborative approach ensures that estimates remain realistic and aligned with both technical and financial project goals.

What is the difference between Principal Estimator vs Senior Estimator?

AspectPrincipal EstimatorSenior Estimator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; professional certifications often preferredBachelor's degree; certifications like CCM or PSP beneficial but less common
Work EnvironmentLeads estimating teams, manages large projects, interacts with executivesPrepares detailed estimates, supports project teams, reports to Principal Estimator
Industry UsageUsed across construction firms, especially in large or complex projectsCommon in construction companies, consulting firms, and subcontractors

The Principal Estimator typically holds a higher leadership role, overseeing multiple projects and teams, while the Senior Estimator focuses on detailed project estimates and supporting project execution. Both roles require strong estimating skills, but the Principal Estimator has broader responsibilities and strategic involvement.

More about Principal Estimator jobs
What states have the most Principal Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Estimator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Estimator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Estimator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Principal Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,586 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Venture Global LNG ("Venture Global") is a long-term, low-cost provider of American-produced liquefied natural gas. The company's Louisiana-based export projects service the global demand for North American natural gas and support the long-term development of clean and reliable North American energy supplies. Using reliable, proven technology in an innovative plant design configuration, Venture Global's modular, mid-scale plant design will replace traditional designs as it allows for the same efficiency and operational reliability at significantly lower capital cost.

We are seeking qualified applicants for the position:

Principal Estimator

Located:

Houston

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Principal Estimator with a strong background in project controls to join our team. This position will be located in Houston, Texas and will report to the Vice President, Estimating.

The Principal Estimator will play a crucial role in accurately assessing project costs and timelines, contributing to effective project planning and decision-making and be responsible for developing a variety of estimates including LNG Process Plant Conceptual estimates, Small Capital Project estimates including equipment replacements, and Maintenance/Outage estimating. The Principal Estimator serves as a subject matter expert (SME), mentor, and reviewer for complex estimates and plays a key role in management reviews and investment decision support.

The ideal candidate should possess 10-15 years of estimating experience, a thorough knowledge of construction execution practices, excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and a keen attention to detail, excellent analytical skills, and a deep understanding of project management principles. Candidates should have good presentation skills to a wide variety of audiences.

The Project Estimator will be responsible for interfacing with all estimate development team members such as Engineering, Procurement, Contracts, Construction and Operations as well as assisting with the coordination of the effort with the Project Management team and the discipline estimating team.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop order-of-magnitude and feasibility estimates using parametric or capacity based models
  • Perform cost benchmarking and support screening of bids or proposals
  • Support the change management program and conduct variance analysis from budget
  • Prepare Turnaround cost estimates and support maintenance budget estimates
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather project requirements, scope, and specifications.
  • Analyze project documentation, including drawings, contracts, and technical documents, to develop comprehensive estimates.
  • Utilize industry-specific software and tools to create accurate cost breakdowns, including materials, labor, equipment, and overhead expenses.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, procurement and construction specialists to ensure alignment of estimates with project goals and objectives, in line with area of responsibility.
  • Identify potential risks and uncertainties that could impact project costs and schedules.
  • Assist in the evaluation of bid proposals by providing analysis of cost estimates and supporting documentation.
  • Continuously monitor and update estimate details as new information becomes available for their area of expertise.
  • Participate in regular project review meetings to provide insights into cost-related matters and to adjust estimates based on project progress.
  • Assist in the collation and summarization of historical information related to the project and assist with the creation of benchmark information for estimate comparison and analysis
  • Other duties as needed

Job Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
  • Proven track record of estimating and project controls experience in construction, engineering, or a related industry.
  • Experience in LNG Industry as well as Power production industry, preferred
  • Strong proficiency in project estimation software, cost modeling tools, Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Effective communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information to diverse stakeholders.
  • Knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and trends related to cost estimation and project controls.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and adapt to changing project requirements.
  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple estimates and priorities simultaneously

Additional Information:

  • This is a full-time position in the office.
  • Travel to other project sites may be required.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package offered.

Venture Global LNG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law.