Construction estimator jobs normally require the completion of a three year college degree in civil or construction engineering along with some experience as a tradesperson in construction or other related areas like carpentry, household electricity, metal fabrication and plumbing. For those planning to enter a construction estimator career, here are some steps you could take to succeed.
You will need a lot of exposure in construction management. If you are aspiring for a degree, take a course that centers on the subject matter of construction. Specific jobs could have variations in their requirements. Find the course that include construction estimating because it is often a part of degree programs that pertain to construction management.
Obtain knowledge of costs of construction, materials used in construction and procedures used in construction aside from the training that you receive from your school. A primary aspect of this job is analyzing and compiling the data you have available and so it helps a lot for estimator jobs to be mathematically inclined and have confidence in their estimations. Computer literacy goes with the job description as well, you need to at least be familiar with office applications like word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Estimators also need to be familiar with the use and reading of specifications of blueprints since this is the first aspect learned by those with few or no experience. There are lots of opportunities for advancement in the companies that hire construction estimators. Usually, the job description for construction estimator jobs states that applicants who have a college degree are preferred when in reality an applicant can start working as an assistant to the estimator.
It is best if you learn how to proofread figures by using the top software applications for estimating jobs as you work with more experienced estimators, and as you advance in your career you will gain benefits of higher pay and recognition. These are some of the rewards you can get if you concentrate in this line of business. You can join organizations such as the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE) and Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis (SCEA). Both are international associations that give out certifications for construction cost estimators.
Applicants must also have a substantial competitive edge so that they will learn all of the detailed knowledge for masonry, plumbing systems, heavy equipment operation and electrical work. Good communications and interpersonal skills are also needed in the job since cost estimators usually work as part of a team. As a cost estimator you should be assertive and confident in presenting and supporting your conclusions as you could be asked to share your knowledge.
The future is bright for this career path, but the need for future construction estimators still depends on industry growth. Currently, the construction industry is enjoying a healthy growth rate and it's never been a better idea to become a construction estimator today.
Earnings are at a high level in this career so it's a good field of choice if you're interested in money. Construction estimator salary varies significantly according to educational attainment, work experience and size of organization they work in. The median annual salary for construction estimator jobs is around $50,000. The range is from $30,000 to $80,000.
College graduates with degrees in courses who offer a strong background in cost estimating, like construction engineering or management, could begin their careers at higher levels. Bachelor's degree holders in construction science and management receive starting jobs with annual salaries averaging at $45,000.
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