Estimator

In any construction firm, the Estimator's job is crucial. Because of the competitive bid-driven nature of the industry, this role can be the most critical to a company's success in securing new work.

Excellence in this area requires strong mathematical skills in combination with working knowledge and understanding of materials cost, labor required and construction techniques to formulate accurate estimates. If the estimator's bid is too high, then it is unlikely the company will secure a new project. On the other hand, if the estimate is too low and the company wins the competitive bid and secures the new work, a construction company can lose money on the project!

Estimators must work well under pressure and often work irregular hours to prepare new bids to help their companies succeed. Estimators often advance to the level of Project Manager and beyond. In fact, many construction company owners once held the position of estimator.