Cost Estimator

Role Description

The Capital Planning Estimator is responsible for developing accurate project schedule and financial estimates during the pre-migration phase of capital projects, serving as a critical link between Capital Planning and Project Delivery teams. This role ensures financial viability of projects through detailed cost modeling, timeline forecasting, and risk assessment before projects are approved for execution. The Estimator will also support Project Managers in developing robust budget requests and navigating approval processes once projects transition to the delivery phase.

Reporting to the Capital Planning Director, this position will be instrumental in establishing estimation standards, enhancing financial accuracy, and improving the overall predictability of capital projects from conception through delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Pre-Migration Estimation
  • Develop comprehensive cost estimates and project schedules for capital projects prior to governance approval
  • Analyze project scope documents to identify cost drivers, potential risks, and resource requirements
  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and apply appropriate cost factors based on project location, complexity, and market conditions
  • Create multi-scenario financial models to support decision-making during the capital planning process
  • Validate preliminary estimates from stakeholders and refine assumptions to ensure accuracy
• Budget Development & Standardization
  • Establish and maintain standardized estimation templates and tools to ensure consistency across the capital planning portfolio
  • Develop historical cost databases and benchmarks to improve estimation accuracy over time
  • Perform cost-benefit analyses and value engineering recommendations during the due diligence phase
  • Create project phasing strategies that align with budget cycles and operational constraints
  • Document estimation methodology and maintain an audit trail of cost assumptions
• Project Delivery Support
  • Partner with Project Managers to prepare and defend budget requests/approvals during the delivery phase
  • Develop clear documentation packages that substantiate budget adjustments and change orders
  • Conduct variance analyses between estimated and actual costs to continuously improve estimation accuracy
  • Support the change management process by providing financial impact assessments of scope modifications
  • Assist in developing contingency recommendations based on risk assessments
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with Capital Planning Managers to enhance financial components of project intake and due diligence
  • Collaborate with the Global Engineering Center to incorporate technical specifications into cost estimates
  • Partner with Transaction and Sustainability teams to quantify financial implications of strategic initiatives
  • Provide estimation expertise during Capital Plan Governance Meetings to inform decision-making
  • Serve as a financial liaison between Capital Planning and Project Delivery teams
• Process Improvement
  • Identify opportunities to streamline estimation processes through technology and best practice implementation
  • Develop KPIs to measure estimation accuracy and drive continuous improvement
  • Lead training sessions on estimation methodologies for stakeholders across the organization
  • Stay current on market conditions and industry trends that impact project costs and timelines
  • Contribute to the development of estimation functionality within the AdaptiveWork Capital Planning Module

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in construction estimation, cost management, or quantity surveying, preferably in commercial real estate
• Strong technical knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry standards
• Proficiency in estimation software and financial modeling tools
• Experience developing project schedules and identifying critical path dependencies
• Demonstrated ability to analyze construction documents and extract relevant cost information
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to diverse stakeholders
• Knowledge of capital planning processes and project governance frameworks
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification such as Certified Cost Estimator/Professional (CCE/P), Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), or similar credential
• Experience working with integrated capital planning systems and financial management platforms
• Understanding of lifecycle costing and total cost of ownership principles
• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and their cost implications
• Experience supporting capital projects in multiple geographic regions

Requirements

• This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

Location

• Remote – Chicago, IL
• Los Angeles, CA