How to Be Building Estimator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions
Steps How to Become
- Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field is generally required for a career as a building estimator.
- Gain Work Experience. In addition to a degree, most employers prefer job candidates to have some prior experience in an estimator role. Experienced estimators may pursue certifications to advance their careers.
- Obtain Certification. Earning a certification in cost estimating, such as the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) credential, can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and help open up more career opportunities.
- Learn Estimating Software. Estimators use software to track costs and analyze data. Becoming proficient in popular programs such as Timberline and Sage Estimating can help applicants stand out in the job market.
- Network with Industry Professionals. Building estimators often work closely with contractors and other industry professionals. Establishing connections with these contacts can help create job leads and opportunities.
The process of being an ideal and competent estimator requires a combination of hard work, knowledge, and experience. To become an ideal estimator, one must possess the knowledge and understanding of the building industry and its standards. This knowledge can be acquired through formal education and on-the-job training, both of which can provide a solid foundation for success.
having a good eye for detail and the ability to effectively communicate and analyze information are important skills for an estimator to have. Finally, having the experience to accurately estimate project costs and timelines is essential for successful estimating. All of these components come together to create an ideal and competent estimator, who can provide clients with accurate estimates that meet their needs and expectations.
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Job Description
- Project Manager: Responsible for overseeing the entire construction project, including budgeting, scheduling, and ensuring that all deadlines are met.
- Construction Manager: Manages the construction crew and subcontractors, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed and that the project is completed on time and on budget.
- Architect: Designs the project and develops the plans for approval by the local government.
- Structural Engineer: Designs the structural elements of the project, such as foundations and walls.
- Plumber: Installs and repairs plumbing systems.
- Electrician: Installs and repairs electrical systems.
- HVAC Technician: Installs and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
- Landscaper: Plans and executes landscaping designs.
- Mason: Installs brick, stone, and other masonry materials.
- Drywaller: Installs drywall, tape, and texture interior walls.
Skills and Competencies to Have
- Knowledge of building construction principles and processes
- Knowledge of applicable building codes and standards
- Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings and specifications
- Ability to estimate material and labor costs
- Knowledge of construction scheduling and sequencing
- Ability to research and analyze building material costs
- Ability to develop accurate estimates of materials, labor and other expenses
- Ability to calculate and compare bids from subcontractors
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) software
- Technical writing skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
- Analytical thinking and detail-oriented mindset
Good communication skills are an essential part of being a successful estimator. Communication skills include the ability to listen carefully, to explain complex concepts in an easily understandable way, and to effectively negotiate with clients and contractors. Estimators must also be adept at problem-solving, as they are often called upon to resolve disputes or come up with creative solutions to complex construction problems.
Furthermore, they must be organized, detail-oriented, and able to accurately calculate dimensions, materials, and labor costs. Having an in-depth knowledge of construction processes, materials, and codes is also necessary for estimators to successfully develop accurate estimates. good estimators rely on their knowledge, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities to create accurate estimates that keep construction projects on track and within budget.
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Frequent Interview Questions
- What experience do you have in building estimation?
- How do you determine the cost of a project?
- What tools do you use when estimating a building project?
- What challenges have you faced when estimating a building project?
- How do you stay up to date on material costs and trends?
- Describe a successful project estimation you have completed.
- How do you ensure accuracy in your estimates?
- What strategies do you use to manage multiple projects at once?
- What processes do you use to keep track of changes in scope and budget?
- How do you communicate with clients about changes in scope or budget?
Common Tools in Industry
- Tape Measure. Used to measure dimensions of building materials and spaces. (eg: Measure the window frame for replacement pane size)
- Level. Used to ensure surfaces are even and plumb. (eg: Check the ceiling for evenness before installation of crown molding)
- Stud Finder. Used to locate the wooden studs in a wall. (eg: Find the studs behind the drywall to hang a shelf)
- Hammer. Used to drive nails into wood or other materials. (eg: Secure the baseboard to the floor with finishing nails)
- Screwdriver. Used to drive screws into wood or other materials. (eg: Attach the drawer pulls to the cabinet drawers)
- Saw. Used to cut wood, metal, tile and other materials. (eg: Cut the board to size for a shelf)
- Chalk Line. Used to mark a straight line on a surface. (eg: Draw a straight line along the wall for a tile installation)
- Measuring Tape. Used to measure length and width of materials or spaces. (eg: Measure the door opening for new door size)
- Masonry Drill Bit. Used to drill into brick, concrete or other masonry material. (eg: Drill holes for anchors to secure a shelf)
- Calipers. Used to measure thickness of material with extreme accuracy. (eg: Measure the thickness of a tile for accurate spacing)
Professional Organizations to Know
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
- American Planning Association (APA)
- National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
- National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
- International Code Council (ICC)
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Common Important Terms
- Building Permit. A document issued by the local government that authorizes an individual to begin construction on a building project.
- Cost Estimate. A prediction of the cost of a building project based on factors such as materials, labor, and supplies.
- Building Code. A set of regulations established by a local government that must be followed when constructing a building.
- Construction Schedule. A timeline for completing the various stages of a building project.
- Design Plans. Detailed drawings of a building's layout, size, and construction.
- Survey. A process of gathering information about the land on which a building project is to be constructed.
- Architect. A professional who designs and plans buildings.
- Contractor. An individual or company that is hired to complete construction on a building project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Building Estimator?
A Building Estimator is a software tool used to calculate the cost of a construction project. It uses information such as materials, labor, and overhead costs to create an estimate of the total project cost.
What types of projects can be estimated using a Building Estimator?
Building Estimators can be used to estimate the cost of almost any type of construction project including residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
How accurate are Building Estimator estimates?
Building Estimator estimates are typically accurate within 10-15%, depending on the complexity of the project.
How often should Building Estimator estimates be updated?
Building Estimator estimates should be updated regularly in order to reflect changes in material prices, labor costs, and other variables. It is recommended to update estimates monthly or quarterly.
What factors should be considered when creating a Building Estimator estimate?
When creating a Building Estimator estimate, factors such as materials, labor, overhead costs, permits, taxes, and other fees should all be taken into consideration.
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Web Resources
- What is a Building Estimator? - Builders Academy Australia buildersacademy.edu.au
- How To Become A Building Estimator | College for Adult Learning collegeforadultlearning.edu.au
- Online Construction Cost Estimating Classes | VDCI.edu www.vdci.edu