Chief Cost Estimator - Remote

DescriptionPosition at The Port Authority of NY & NJChief Estimator - Engineering Department, Port Authority of NY & NJStep into a defining leadership role at the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey as the Chief Cost Estimator and help shape one of the most ambitious transportation programs in the country. As the agency advances a transformative 10‑Year Capital Plan—including next‑generation airport terminals, major bridge and tunnel rehabilitations, PATH modernization, marine and port upgrades, and state‑of‑good‑repair megaprojects—you will be the strategic force ensuring every investment is grounded in rigor, transparency, and world‑class cost intelligence.Why This Role MattersThe Port Authority is delivering some of the most complex, high‑visibility infrastructure projects in the United States. Chief Estimator Position OverviewThe Chief Estimator serves as the Engineering Department’s senior authority on construction and engineering cost intelligence and leads the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s Engineering Estimating function, managing cost-governance frameworks and collaborates across Engineering, the PMO and business leadership to support successful project planning and delivery. The Chief Estimator is responsible for establishing estimating standards, overseeing the development of accurate and competitive project cost estimates, and providing strategic cost intelligence to support leadership decision‑making.This position is responsible for developing accurate, defensible, and comprehensive cost estimates for large, complex engineering and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, strategic insight, and a collaborative mindset to support planning, risk management, and cost control efforts while ensuring alignment with agency standards and client expectations.Provide executive‑level guidance on cost implications, budget validation, and project feasibility. Support capital planning and organizational financial forecasting through cost intelligence.Cost Governance & Quality AssuranceDevelop and maintain standardized estimating methodologies, tools, templates, and workflows. Conduct independent estimate reviews for high‑risk or high‑value projects.Market Intelligence & Cost Data ManagementMaintain and enhance the organization’s cost database, including historical data, productivity benchmarks, and market trends. Provide timely cost insights to support project planning and procurement strategies.Technical Expertise & OversightGuide teams in quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, risk analysis, and contingency development.Support project teams in identifying cost drivers, scope gaps, and estimating risks.Cross‑Functional CollaborationPartner with engineering, project management, finance, procurement, and executive leadership to integrate cost considerations throughout the project lifecycle. Participate in design reviews, project kickoff meetings, and bid evaluations. Provide cost‑related input during contract negotiations and procurement planning.Risk ManagementLead cost‑risk assessments and scenario modeling to support informed decision‑making. Recommend contingency strategies and risk‑mitigation approaches. Support project controls monitoring cost performance and identifying variances.Provide training on estimating tools, best practices, and industry trends.Digital OptimizationChampion the adoption of modern estimating technologies, including BIM‑integrated estimating, cost‑modeling automation, and digital delivery workflows. Collaborate with Digital Solutions teams to enhance data‑driven estimating practices.Qualifications & SkillsEducation and ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field. 15+ years of demonstrable experience on large-scale engineering or infrastructure projects and other related construction experience, including:Complex multi-disciplinary cost estimating associated with transportation, buildings, bridge, marine and utility systems,Advanced cost-risk and contingency modeling, scenario analysis, escalation forecasting and probabilistic risk assessmentsIndependent cost validation for billion-dollar programs ensuring realistic, defensible and competitive budgets before procurementIntegration with engineering design and digital tools, WBS structures, BIM-linked estimating and historical; cost databases10+ years of progressive supervisory experience, performing management and oversight of senior to mid-level staffExperience with estimating software (e.g., Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office software.Strong Excel modeling and data analytics capability, including the ability to build and maintain cost databases/libraries desired.Deep understanding of construction methods, materials, and labor productivity.Skills for all levels of estimate completeness, from order of magnitude to contract documents. Ability to understand costs in difficult work environments and for historic preservation type work, including some familiarity with infrastructure construction and facilities in the New York City area.Preferred CertificationsCertified Professional Estimator (CPE) as issued by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE); or, equivalent certifications through the American Association of Cost Estimators (AACE International) or Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).Selection ProcessThe application process varies by position but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Compensation, Benefits & On-Site Collaboration RequirementsThe Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package, hybrid work options for many positions, and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.The expected compensation range for this role is:Salary Range: $ 191,486 - $235,664In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In person collaboration is essential to how the Port Authority conducts business, and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required on business needs.The Port Authority of NY & NJ welcomes veteran and military spouse applications.

Founded in 1921, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey builds, operates, and maintains many of the most important transportation and trade infrastructure assets in the country. The agency's network of aviation, ground, rail, and seaport facilities is among the busiest in the country, supports more than 550,000 regional jobs, and generates more than twenty three billion in annual wages and eighty billion in annual economic activity. The Port Authority also owns and manages the 16-acre World Trade Center site, where the 1,776-foot-tall One World Trade Center is now the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.

It is the Port Authority’s policy, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws, to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment and who request the Port Authority do so, unless providing the requested accommodation would result in an undue hardship to the Port Authority.

Job applicants may request a reasonable accommodation (1) if they claim a disability is affecting the interview process, or (2) to ensure that if they are selected for a position, they can perform the essential job functions. To submit a request, please contact the recruiter or email the Human Resources Department’s Disability Accommodation Coordinator at [email protected].