How to Be Civil Construction Estimator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 27, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a construction estimator is essential to the success of any construction project. An estimator is responsible for calculating the cost of a project and providing an accurate estimate of the total cost. The estimator must consider all aspects of the project, including materials, labor, and equipment in order to produce an accurate estimate.

A good estimator also takes into account potential risks and uncertainties to ensure that the project stays within budget. If there is an underestimate, it can lead to delays and extra costs, which can have a significant impact on the timeline and budget of the project. Conversely, an overestimate can lead to wasted funds and resources.

Therefore, it is important for a construction estimator to be precise and accurate in their estimates to ensure that the construction project is successful.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a civil construction estimator, you should first obtain a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction engineering, or a related field. This will provide you with the necessary technical knowledge and skills to be successful in the construction estimating field.
Acquire Work Experience. After completing a degree program, it is recommended that you acquire some work experience in the civil engineering or construction field. This will give you the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in the industry and develop an understanding of how projects are completed.
Obtain Certification. In many states, it is required that civil construction estimators be certified by a professional organization or state board. Certifications are typically earned through completing coursework and passing an exam.
Develop Your Skills. To be successful in this profession, you must possess strong math and analytical skills. You should also be familiar with industry-standard estimating software and be comfortable working with large amounts of data.
Network. Building relationships with clients, contractors, and other professionals in the construction industry is an important part of being a successful civil construction estimator. Networking and attending industry events is a great way to build these relationships.

As the construction industry continually evolves, Civil Construction Estimators must stay informed and qualified to remain competitive. The best way to do this is by attending seminars and workshops, participating in industry-sponsored events, and reading industry-specific publications. Staying informed and knowledgeable about the latest construction trends, technologies, and materials is essential for an estimator to be successful.

taking classes or earning certifications can help demonstrate expertise and professionalism, as well as give estimators an edge over competitors. By staying up-to-date on the latest industry developments and qualifications, Civil Construction Estimators can ensure their success and remain competitive in the ever-changing construction industry.

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Job Description

Prepare cost estimates for civil construction projects, including roads, bridges, dams, underground utilities, and other related civil infrastructure projects.
Gather and analyze data from various sources to develop cost estimates, including drawings and specifications, subcontractor quotes, materials costs, labor costs, and other related costs.
Develop a detailed breakdown of project costs for each component of the project.
Prepare bid documents and present them to potential clients.
Liaise with project managers, subcontractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to ensure accuracy of data and efficient execution of projects.
Analyze potential risks associated with projects and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Submit progress reports to management on a regular basis.
Monitor project progress to ensure that costs are kept within budgeted amounts.
Keep track of financial performance of projects and suggest corrective actions when needed.
Research new technologies and industry advancements to stay up to date with the industry trends.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of construction methods and materials
Knowledge of building codes and regulations
Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings
Understanding of structural engineering principles and calculations
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in using cost estimating software
Ability to produce accurate estimates quickly
Excellent organizational and communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Knowledge of health and safety regulations

A successful Civil Construction Estimator must possess a wide array of skills in order to be successful. One of the most important skills a Civil Construction Estimator can have is the ability to accurately estimate the cost of a project based on the material and labor costs associated with the project. This requires a thorough understanding of construction materials, labor costs, and local market conditions.

A Civil Construction Estimator must also be able to accurately evaluate a projects timeline, including any delays or modifications that may occur throughout the projects lifetime. Furthermore, a successful estimator must have excellent communication and negotiation skills in order to effectively negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors, as well as build strong relationships with clients. Lastly, a Civil Construction Estimator must possess strong organizational and problem solving skills in order to ensure all tasks are completed on time and to budget.

These skills and abilities are essential for a successful Civil Construction Estimator and will help ensure the success of any project they take on.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in civil construction estimating?
How have you handled tight timelines and large-scale projects?
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy in your estimates?
How do you stay up to date with the changing construction industry?
How do you handle difficult conversations with subcontractors and vendors?
What challenges have you faced while estimating civil construction projects?
Describe a complex project you have successfully estimated.
How do you manage different stakeholders expectations?
Describe how you use technology to improve accuracy and efficiency in your estimates.
How do you evaluate and recommend changes to a projects budget?

Common Tools in Industry

ProEst Estimating Software. Professional construction estimating software used to create estimates and bids for construction projects. (eg: creating detailed estimates for commercial projects)
On-Screen Takeoff. Professional takeoff and estimating software used to measure, analyze and generate accurate estimates from digital plans. (eg: drawing takeoffs from digital blueprints)
EstimatorXpress. Estimating software designed to automate the process of preparing estimates for construction projects. (eg: quickly generating reliable cost estimates)
Microsoft Excel. Spreadsheet software used to create custom templates for construction projects. (eg: tracking costs and materials in a detailed spreadsheet)
Bid4Build Software. Estimating software used to create accurate bids for construction projects. (eg: preparing bids for residential and commercial construction)
Construction Cost Estimator. Online tool used to generate accurate estimates for construction projects. (eg: creating cost estimates for projects in different locations)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)
American Council for Construction Estimators (ACCE)
Association of General Contractors (AGC)
Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
Estimating Institute (EI)
National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP)
National Estimators Association (NEA)
National Society of Professional Estimators (NSPE)
Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis (SCEA)

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Common Important Terms

Bidding. The process of submitting an offer or price for a job, product, or service.
Contract. A legally binding agreement between two or more parties, in which each party agrees to perform certain actions or provide certain services in exchange for a specified consideration.
Takeoff. An estimation technique used to calculate the amount of material or labor needed for a construction project.
Scheduling. The process of organizing and planning the time frame of construction activities.
Cost Estimate. A prediction of the total expected cost for a particular project.
Material Estimate. An estimation of the quantity and cost of materials needed for a particular project.
Labor Estimate. An estimation of the number of hours of labor and associated cost required to complete a project.
Subcontractors. Third-party companies hired to perform specific tasks or services related to a construction project.
Overhead Costs. Expenses not directly related to labor, materials, or equipment, such as insurance, taxes, and general administrative costs.
Risk Analysis. The process of evaluating potential risks associated with a project and determining how to reduce or mitigate them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Civil Construction Estimator?

A Civil Construction Estimator is a professional who evaluates the cost of a proposed construction project to determine the project's feasibility and potential profitability. They use data from a variety of sources, such as blueprints, materials lists, and labor costs, to develop an accurate cost estimate for the project.

What qualifications are needed to become a Civil Construction Estimator?

To become a Civil Construction Estimator, one should typically have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field. Additional certifications and experience with estimating software can also be beneficial.

What skills are necessary for a Civil Construction Estimator?

A Civil Construction Estimator must possess various technical and interpersonal skills, such as knowledge of construction materials and methods, familiarity with building codes and regulations, strong math and analytical skills, excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work independently.

What is the average salary of a Civil Construction Estimator?

The average salary of a Civil Construction Estimator can vary depending on experience and location, but the median salary for a Civil Construction Estimator in the United States is approximately $55,000 per year.

What are the duties of a Civil Construction Estimator?

The primary responsibility of a Civil Construction Estimator is to analyze proposed construction projects for potential profitability and feasibility. They must also create detailed cost estimates for materials, labor, and other expenses; review and approve vendor contracts; and provide input on construction methods and materials.

Web Resources

CEI - Civil Construction Estimator | Civil, Environmental and ... www.colorado.edu
Online Construction Cost Estimating Classes | VDCI.edu www.vdci.edu
Construction Estimator (Civil) Houston TX | Natural Resources wfscjobs.tamu.edu