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Senior Project Estimator information

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$62.5K

$126.7K

$184.5K

How much do senior project estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior project estimator in the United States is $126,702.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,500.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Project Estimator vs Project Manager?

AspectSenior Project EstimatorProject Manager
Primary RoleEstimating project costs, preparing bids, and analyzing budgetsOverseeing project execution, managing teams, and ensuring project delivery
Required SkillsCost estimation, bid preparation, industry knowledgeLeadership, scheduling, communication, risk management
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, collaborating with estimators and sales teamsOn-site and office, coordinating with clients and teams
CertificationsEstimating certifications, industry-specific licensesProject management certifications (PMP), industry licenses

The Senior Project Estimator focuses on accurately estimating project costs and preparing bids, while the Project Manager oversees the entire project execution process. Both roles require industry knowledge, but their responsibilities and skill sets differ significantly, making each essential at different project stages.

What is a Senior Project Estimator?

A Senior Project Estimator is a professional responsible for calculating the total costs involved in a construction or engineering project, including materials, labor, equipment, and time requirements. They analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost estimates. Senior Project Estimators often lead estimating teams, review bids, and collaborate with project managers and clients to ensure budgets are accurate and achievable. Their expertise helps organizations make informed decisions, minimize financial risks, and remain competitive in bidding for projects.

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

To thrive as a Senior Project Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, extensive experience in cost estimation, and a relevant degree in engineering, construction management, or a similar field. Expertise with estimation software such as Sage Estimating, Bluebeam, or ProEst, as well as familiarity with industry standards and certifications like AACE or PMP, is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, communication, and negotiation abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate project bids, minimizing financial risks, and ensuring successful project outcomes.

How much do senior estimators make in the US?

Senior project estimators in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, industry, and location. They often have strong skills in cost analysis, project management, and estimating software tools like HeavyBid or PlanSwift.

How much do senior estimators earn?

Senior project estimators typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have strong skills in cost analysis, project management, and estimating software, which can influence salary levels.

How does a Senior Project Estimator typically collaborate with project managers and engineers during the pre-construction phase?

A Senior Project Estimator works closely with project managers and engineers to ensure that all aspects of the project are accurately costed and feasible before construction begins. This involves attending meetings to review project plans, clarifying scope, and identifying potential risks or cost-saving opportunities. The estimator provides detailed breakdowns of labor, materials, and timeframes, and incorporates feedback from both managers and engineers to refine estimates. This collaborative process helps align project expectations and prepares the team for successful execution.

Who makes more money, a project manager or an estimator?

In the construction industry, project managers generally earn higher salaries than estimators due to their broader responsibilities, leadership roles, and decision-making authority. However, salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and company size. Both roles require strong organizational and communication skills, with project managers often overseeing multiple projects and teams.

What does a senior project estimator do?

A senior project estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for construction or engineering projects by analyzing project plans, specifications, and materials. They collaborate with project managers, review bids, and use estimating software to ensure budgets are realistic and competitive, often overseeing junior estimators and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
What cities are hiring for Senior Project Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Senior Project Estimator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Estimator jobs? The most popular types of Project Estimator jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Project Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Project Estimator jobs include:
Senior Project Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Project 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 $126,702 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Senior Project Manager/Estimator

Border States Paving, Inc.

Bemidji, MN

$135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Border States Paving is looking for a Senior Project Manager/Estimator!

Position is based out of our Fargo, ND Office.

This is a senior leadership role for a proven heavy civil/asphalt professional who can both estimate work accurately and lead awarded projects through safe, profitable execution.

The Senior Project Manager / Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating, planning, execution, financial performance, and closeout of heavy civil, asphalt paving, grading, and sitework projects. This position plays a key role in developing competitive and accurate bids, transitioning awarded work into the field, supporting superintendents and foremen during execution, and ensuring projects are completed safely, profitably, and in accordance with contract requirements.

The role requires strong technical estimating ability, practical field knowledge, disciplined project management, and the ability to build productive relationships with owners, engineers, inspectors, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal operations teams. The Senior Project Manager / Estimator is expected to provide leadership, mentorship, and accountability while helping improve estimating accuracy, production planning, cost control, and overall project execution.

Education/Experience:

High school diploma or GED required.

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.

Minimum 7–10 years of experience in heavy civil, asphalt paving, grading, sitework, or construction project management and estimating.

Heavy highway/DOT project experience strongly preferred.

Demonstrated experience estimating and managing projects involving subcontractors, budgets, schedules, production tracking, change orders, and field operations required.

Experience leading project teams, mentoring developing employees, and coordinating with field leadership preferred.

Working Conditions:

Combination of office and field environment.

Frequent travel to project sites, owner meetings, company offices, and bid lettings.

Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, moving mechanical equipment, loud noise, heat, cold, dust, vibration, and active construction operations.

Extended work hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, overnight travel, and peak construction-season demands may be required.

Excellent compensation package up to $135,000/yr base pay plus company paid family medical insurance, 401K match, profit sharing, company vehicle and more.

Minorities, women, veterans, and the disabled are encouraged to apply. EOE/AAP


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