Cost Estimator

Now Hiring: Cost Estimator!

Location: Cleveland, Ohio (Office in Avon Lake, OH)

Pay: $75,000-$100,000 Based on Experience

Schedule: Hybrid/Flexible (Monday – Friday 8 am-5 pm)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Construction Support Solutions (CSS):

Construction Support Solutions (CSS) delivers professional construction management and inspection services to federal, state, and private clients across the U.S. We specialize in providing high-quality, on-site construction oversight for mission-critical projects—ensuring work meets the highest standards of safety, compliance, and performance.

Our team supports agencies such as the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), NASA, National Park Service (NPS), and the General Services Administration (GSA)

We take pride in our integrity, technical expertise, and commitment to client success—building long-term partnerships that align with each agency’s mission.

Position Overview:

The Cost Estimator will play a central role in CSS’s preconstruction efforts by developing accurate, data-driven cost estimates that guide design and budget decisions. This position requires strong skills in construction document analysis, quantity takeoffs, MEP estimating, and market cost research. You’ll work closely with architects, engineers, and project managers to ensure estimates reflect real-world conditions and evolving project scope.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop detailed and conceptual cost estimates across all project design phases.

• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs using construction drawings and specifications.

• Prepare detailed MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) estimates and system cost breakdowns.

• Utilize PlanSwift and other computer-guided takeoff tools to perform efficient and precise estimating.

• Organize estimates according to CSI divisions and industry-standard cost structures.

• Conduct ongoing market research for labor, material, and equipment pricing.

• Demonstrate a solid understanding of pre-construction estimating principles and cost development.

• Consistently meet or exceed deadlines for estimate delivery.

• Support feasibility studies, cost validation exercises, and early-stage budgeting.

• Maintain internal cost databases and historical pricing information.

• Collaborate with project teams to ensure alignment between cost, scope, and schedule throughout the project lifecycle.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.

• 3–5 years of experience in cost estimating, construction takeoffs, or pre-construction support.

• Experience in MEP estimation and takeoffs is required.

• Familiarity with CSI breakdowns and cost division structures.

• Proficiency with PlanSwift and other computer-guided takeoff systems.

• Strong analytical skills, exceptional attention to detail, and accuracy.

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and consistently meet deadlines.

• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

• Local candidates encouraged; hybrid flexibility available with regular in-office collaboration.

What’s in It for You:

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 10 days annually to start, with increases based on tenure.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: 3% company match, eligible after 90 days

• Health Insurance: Company-subsidized employee coverage, family coverage available at employee expense

• Dental Insurance: Separate employee-paid plan available

• Holidays: Major federal holidays observed as PTO, dependent upon projects.