Senior Cost Estimator

About Toscano Clements Taylor

Toscano Clements Taylor (TCT) is a cost consulting firm specializing in cost estimating, scheduling, and project controls for complex construction and infrastructure projects. We work closely with clients to deliver accurate, reliable, and strategic cost management solutions throughout all phases of project development.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Cost Estimator for a critical, client-facing role supporting major transportation and infrastructure projects in New York City. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in large-scale public transit infrastructure, a strong understanding of the NYC construction market, and the ability to independently develop, review, and defend detailed cost estimates. This role is based onsite at the client location five days per week.

Essential Responsibilities

• Prepare material, labor, equipment, and construction cost estimates across conceptual design, schematic design, design development, and construction document phases.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs, pricing analyses, cost benchmarking, and estimate validations to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, technical documents, and project requirements to identify cost drivers, risks, and project-specific challenges.
• Review and finalize unit cost pricing to reflect current market conditions, project logistics, labor requirements, and construction methodologies.
• Obtain and validate current pricing information using cost databases, contractor proposals, supplier quotations, and industry resources.
• Review discipline-specific takeoffs and estimate inputs for accuracy, completeness, and suitability for project requirements.
• Lead conceptual and feasibility-level cost modeling using historical benchmarking and industry expertise to forecast early-stage project costs.
• Prepare and present cost estimates, reports, budget analyses, and risk assessments to senior management, clients, contractors, and vendors.
• Work closely with architects, engineers, project managers, and technical teams to clarify scope and resolve discrepancies.
• Review subcontractor and vendor pricing, evaluate proposals, and identify cost discrepancies and value engineering opportunities.
• Develop clear estimating assumptions, qualifications, exclusions, and supporting documentation.
• Support project budgets, pre-bid estimates, and construction cost evaluations; manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Provide technical guidance and quality reviews of other estimating work as assigned, while maintaining strong client and project team relationships.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant construction cost estimating experience; 10+ years preferred, including significant work on major transportation, transit, or public infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience with New York City transit infrastructure projects, such as subway, rail, stations, maintenance facilities, or related capital improvement programs.
• Strong knowledge of NYC public-sector construction practices, estimating methodologies, and infrastructure project requirements.
• Ability to prepare and review detailed estimates throughout all phases of design and development, including quantity takeoffs, unit cost analysis, and benchmarking.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications and independently explain and defend estimates, assumptions, and recommendations.
• Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary design and construction teams on complex capital projects.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills; proficiency in estimating software, Microsoft Excel, and cost management tools.
• Availability to work onsite at the designated NYC client location five days per week.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline.
• Experience supporting large, publicly funded transportation capital programs in the New York metropolitan area.
• Familiarity with CSI MasterFormat divisions, independent cost reviews, conceptual cost modeling, and value engineering.
• Certified Cost Professional (CCP), Certified Estimating Professional (CEP), or equivalent credential.
• Experience leading estimates or providing technical oversight on complex infrastructure projects.

Why Join TCT?

At TCT, we value professional expertise, collaboration, and continued growth. You will contribute to significant infrastructure projects alongside experienced professionals committed to quality work and meaningful client relationships.