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Senior Cost Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Senior Cost Estimator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Senior Cost Estimator Communities everywhere share the need for clean water. And as they work to meet that need, they're facing new, more complex challenges every day. Our water professionals ...

Stantec

Senior Cost Estimator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$122K - $183K/yr

Senior Cost Estimator Communities everywhere share the need for clean water. And as they work to meet that need, they're facing new, more complex challenges every day. Our water professionals ...

SATO America

Senior Cost Estimator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Senior Cost Estimator Location: Charlotte, NC, 28273 SATO America is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator responsible for developing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates and customer ...

Alpha Corporation

Senior Cost Estimator

Dulles, VA · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

Position Summary As a Senior Cost Estimator, you will manage a wide range of Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build construction projects throughout the project lifecycle. Essential Duties and ...

SATO America

Senior Cost Estimator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Senior Cost Estimator Location: Charlotte, NC, 28273 SATO America is seeking a Senior Cost Estimator responsible for developing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates and customer ...

Alpha

Senior Cost Estimator

Dulles, VA

Position Summary As a Senior Cost Estimator, you will manage a wide range of Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build construction projects throughout the project lifecycle. Essential Duties and ...

OCMI, Inc.

Senior Cost Estimator

Seattle, WA · Remote

$145K - $185K/yr

We're seeking a Senior Cost Estimator to join our growing team. This fully remote position will support a variety of federal government construction projects, requiring hands-on experience preparing ...

THE ENTWISTLE COMPANY

Sr. COST ESTIMATOR

Hudson, MA

$95K - $115K/yr

Description Job Overview The Entwistle Company is seeking a skilled and motivated Sr Cost Estimator to build a long-term career in our collaborative and innovative environment. In this role, you'll ...

OCMI, Inc.

Senior Cost Estimator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

We're thrilled to welcome a California-based Senior Cost Estimator to our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you'll serve as a trusted cost advisor, leading the development of complex project ...

OCMI, Inc.

Senior Cost Estimator

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $170K/yr

We're thrilled to welcome a California-based Senior Cost Estimator to our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you'll serve as a trusted cost advisor, leading the development of complex project ...

ENTWISTLE COMPANY

Sr. COST ESTIMATOR

Hudson, MA · On-site

Job Overview The Entwistle Company is seeking a skilled and motivated Sr Cost Estimator to build a long-term career in our collaborative and innovative environment. In this role, you'll help deliver ...

OCMI, Inc.

Senior Cost Estimator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

We're thrilled to welcome a California-based Senior Cost Estimator to our team in Irvine, CA . In this role, you'll serve as a trusted cost advisor, leading the development of complex project ...

Entwistle Company

Sr. COST ESTIMATOR

Hudson, MA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Job Overview The Entwistle Company is seeking a skilled and motivated Sr Cost Estimator to build a long-term career in our collaborative and innovative environment. In ...

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Senior Cost Estimator information

See salary details

$37K

$129.7K

$186.5K

How much do senior cost estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior cost estimator in the United States is $129,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $156,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior cost estimator do?

A Senior Cost Estimator is responsible for analyzing project plans and specifications to determine the overall costs required for completing a project. They collect and evaluate data on labor, materials, equipment, and time to prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets. Senior Cost Estimators often work closely with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure accurate cost projections and help guide decision-making. Their expertise is critical in helping organizations control expenses, minimize risks, and secure profitable contracts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior cost estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Cost Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, deep knowledge of construction or manufacturing processes, and extensive experience in cost estimation, typically supported by a relevant degree and several years in the industry. Proficiency in specialized estimating software (such as Sage Estimating, CostX, or RSMeans), Excel, and sometimes certifications like AACE or ASPE are commonly required. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and clear communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with clients and project teams. These competencies ensure accurate project budgeting, risk management, and successful completion of complex projects.

What are some common challenges senior cost estimators face when working on large-scale projects?

Senior Cost Estimators often encounter challenges such as managing incomplete or evolving project information, coordinating with multiple stakeholders across departments, and staying updated on fluctuating material and labor costs. Balancing accuracy with tight deadlines is also a frequent hurdle, especially when clients require quick turnaround times. Additionally, ensuring that estimates align with both the client's budget and the project's technical requirements requires strong analytical skills and effective communication with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams.

What is the difference between Senior Cost Estimator vs Cost Engineer?

AspectSenior Cost EstimatorCost Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; certifications like CPC or AACE are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in engineering or construction management; certifications like CEP or AACE are valued
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, preparing cost estimates, analyzing bids, and collaborating with project teamsOffice and field-based; involved in cost control, project planning, and risk analysis
Industry UsageUsed across construction, engineering, and infrastructure projectsCommon in engineering, construction, and manufacturing sectors

While both roles focus on cost analysis, the Senior Cost Estimator primarily prepares detailed project estimates, whereas the Cost Engineer manages cost control and project financials throughout the project lifecycle. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are senior cost estimators in high demand?

Senior cost estimators are in high demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering due to ongoing infrastructure projects and complex budgeting needs. Their expertise in analyzing project costs, preparing estimates, and using tools like estimating software makes them valuable, especially as projects grow in size and complexity.

Is a senior cost estimator a good career?

A senior cost estimator is a valuable role in construction, engineering, and manufacturing industries, responsible for analyzing project costs and preparing budgets. It offers opportunities for advancement, requires strong analytical skills, and often involves certifications like AACE International's Certified Cost Professional (CCP). The role can provide stable employment and competitive salaries, especially with experience and industry knowledge.
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Senior Cost Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Cost Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,703 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Senior Cost Estimator

US Legislative Branch

Washington, DC

$121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

This position is located in the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), Office of the Chief Engineer. This role serves as a Senior Cost Estimator, supporting the Cost Estimating Group and/or the Construction Execution Branch developing cost estimates/proposals for new construction, interior and exterior alterations, restorations, additions and repairs to existing structures in the Capitol Complex.

Qualifications:

You must meet the United States Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) qualification requirements (including specialized experience and/or educational requirements) for the advertised position.  You must meet all eligibility and qualifications requirements by the closing date of the job announcement.  Additional information on the qualification requirements is outlined in the OPM Qualifications Standards Handbook of General Schedule Positions.  It is available for your review on the OPM web site at OPM qualification standards

Candidates for the GS-13 grade level must have at least 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower (GS-12) grade level in the Federal service that demonstrates the following:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of and experience with estimate development, through design stages from schematics through working drawings, for proposed new construction, restorations, repairs and alteration projects.
  • Providing oversight and leading in the development of cost estimates for construction projects and ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable standards.
  • Developing cost estimates using SUCCESS Estimator/RIB, Cost-OS, or equivalent cost estimating software.
  • Providing advisory services and working with engineers, architects, and contractors to ensure cost estimates are in compliance with project budget and cost projections.
  • Serving as Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) or equivalent for support contracts.
Education:

No education substitution.

Employment Type: OTHER

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