Junior Estimator

Job Description

Summary

Our Arcadis APM Group Inc., team in Cary, NC is adding a Junior Estimator to an already growing team. The ideal candidate will have 3–6 years of experience supporting capital cost estimation and/or cost controls for EPC/EPCM projects in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and advanced technology sectors. This role supports the development of cost estimates from early concept through more detailed phases by performing quantity takeoffs, analyzing cost drivers, and contributing to accurate Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation. The ideal candidate brings strong data literacy, cost modeling fundamentals, and industry awareness.

Key Responsibilities

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• Assist in preparing capital cost estimates aligned to project phase (AACE Class 5→1).
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• Able and willing to support estimating for CSA, MEP and Process disciplines.
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• Perform 2D quantity takeoffs and assist with 3D/model-based takeoff validation.
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• Support development of BOE by documenting scope assumptions and pricing sources.
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• Gather, validate, and organize cost data such as labor rates, material pricing, and equipment costs.
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• Compare estimate outputs against benchmarks and historical data.
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• Data, Benchmarking & Risk Support.
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• Perform cost data cleanup, normalization, and trend analysis.
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• Participate in risk identification and document cost impacts.
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• Conduct sensitivity checks on major cost drivers.
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• Build foundational knowledge of cleanrooms, process utilities, high-spec MEP systems, and commissioning/validation factors.
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• Assist senior estimators with discipline inputs tied to Life Sciences regulatory drivers.
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• Contribute to estimate reviews for alignment with design documents and scope.
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• Assist in mapping costs into WBS/CBS structures and preparing estimate summaries.
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• Prepare organized estimate documentation for senior review.
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Qualifications

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• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or related field.
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• 3–6 years of construction, estimating, cost engineering, or project controls experience.
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• Strong data skills for cost analysis and takeoffs.
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• Understanding of construction methods and cost components.
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• Strong written and verbal communication.
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• Highly organized and detail oriented.
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• Strong Excel skills, including use of lookups and pivot tables.
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• Experience with estimating/takeoff tools such as OST, Planswift, Timberline, WinEst, CostX, RSMeans, or Bluebeam.
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• Familiar with AACE Recommended Estimating Practice.
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• Exposure to 3D/5D modeling concepts.
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• Familiarity with Life Sciences facilities or cGMP environments.
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• Knowledge of regional labor markets and escalation indices.
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