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CDM Smith

Flex Staff Cost Estimator

Posted 5 days ago

Job Description

We are seeking skilled Estimators to independently prepare, analyze, and validate cost estimates for assigned Federal construction projects across various disciplines, including vertical and horizontal construction. This role ensures that all estimates are accurate, compliant with Federal requirements, and aligned with project objectives. This is a pipeline requisition for upcoming Federal project hires.

Job Duties:

• Prepare detailed, discipline-specific, and total project cost estimates using industry-standard cost estimating tools such as MII (MCACES II), PACES, RSMeans, and Success Estimator in accordance with Federal standards.
• Analyze contractor cost proposals, bids, and change orders for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with FAR, DFARS, Davis-Bacon, and Federal agency-specific regulations.
• Interpret and quantify drawings, specifications, and statements of work to develop cost estimates and supporting documentation at various design and project stages (conceptual through final design).
• Incorporate and reference Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC), Service Instructions, and other applicable codes, standards, and design guides to ensure cost estimates reflect compliant and constructible solutions.
• Develop and maintain cost models, pricing databases, and historical cost data to support continuous improvement of estimating accuracy.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Construction Oversight Specialists (COS), Engineers, and Contracting Officers to ensure consistency and alignment between cost estimates, project scopes, and technical requirements.
• Support value engineering efforts by identifying cost-saving opportunities, evaluating alternative materials or methods, and providing recommendations that balance cost, schedule, and performance.
• Prepare detailed cost analyses, estimate narratives, and justification documentation for government review and audit purposes.
• Evaluate risk and contingency requirements based on project complexity, market conditions, and uncertainty levels.
• Provide input for budget development, life-cycle cost analyses, and independent government estimates (IGEs).
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, design reviews, and post-award evaluations to support continuous improvement and lessons learned.
• Ensure compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and agency-specific estimating procedures.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support successful project delivery and Federal client satisfaction.

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Flex Staff Cost Estimator at CDM Smith | Renata