Cost Estimating Manager

HGA•Minneapolis, MN

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

HGA’s Allied Disciplines team of cost estimators, specifiers, and construction administrators is seeking a talented Cost Estimating Manager who not only excels in developing accurate, data-driven construction cost models but also brings a strategic business development mindset to join our team! This leader will play a pivotal role in expanding our estimating capabilities, strengthening our internal processes, and driving growth with external clients. In this role you will: Cost Estimating Leadership Lead the continuing evolution of cost estimating practices in tandem with ongoing changes in project delivery methods across the construction industry. Advance and refine estimating methodologies, tools, templates, and best practices. Manage the development, review, and delivery of cost estimates across a diverse portfolio of projects. Partner with principals, project managers, engineers, finance, and construction teams to ensure estimates are accurate, defensible, and aligned with project and organizational goals. Conduct risk assessments and scenario analyses to support strategic decision-making. Mentor and develop junior estimators, foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Client Engagement Collaborate with project teams to support proposal development, cost strategies, and competitive positioning. Serve as a subject-matter expert during client and contractor meetings, presentations, and negotiations. Identify opportunities to expand estimating services and strengthen client relationships. Translate client’s needs into tailored estimating solutions that differentiate our team in the marketplace. Support go-to-market strategies, capability statements, and thought leadership initiatives. Internal Service Advancement Champion process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability. Build strong cross-functional partnerships to ensure estimating insights are integrated into project planning and execution from project inception through project completion. Introduce new tools, technologies, and analytics that elevate the team’s capabilities. Act as an internal consultant, helping stakeholders understand cost drivers, market conditions, trade-offs, and value impacts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Construction Management, Business, or related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., AACE, ICEAA) are a plus.
10+ years of experience in cost estimating, cost engineering, or financial modeling.
Demonstrated success supporting business development, proposals, or client-facing engagements.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
Excellent communication and presentation abilities, comfortable engaging with project teams, leadership, clients, and contractors.
Experience leading teams and managing cross-functional initiatives.
Proficiency with estimating software, cost databases, and financial analysis tools.

Nice To Haves

advanced degree or certifications (e.g., AACE, ICEAA) are a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead the continuing evolution of cost estimating practices in tandem with ongoing changes in project delivery methods across the construction industry.
Advance and refine estimating methodologies, tools, templates, and best practices.
Manage the development, review, and delivery of cost estimates across a diverse portfolio of projects.
Partner with principals, project managers, engineers, finance, and construction teams to ensure estimates are accurate, defensible, and aligned with project and organizational goals.
Conduct risk assessments and scenario analyses to support strategic decision-making.
Mentor and develop junior estimators, foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with project teams to support proposal development, cost strategies, and competitive positioning.
Serve as a subject-matter expert during client and contractor meetings, presentations, and negotiations.
Identify opportunities to expand estimating services and strengthen client relationships.
Translate client’s needs into tailored estimating solutions that differentiate our team in the marketplace.
Support go-to-market strategies, capability statements, and thought leadership initiatives.
Champion process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
Build strong cross-functional partnerships to ensure estimating insights are integrated into project planning and execution from project inception through project completion.
Introduce new tools, technologies, and analytics that elevate the team’s capabilities.
Act as an internal consultant, helping stakeholders understand cost drivers, market conditions, trade-offs, and value impacts.