Facilities Cost Estimator / Cost Engineer

The Building PeopleColumbia, SC
Hybrid

About The Position

The Building People, LLC, is seeking a full-time Facilities Cost Estimator / Cost Engineer to support facility maintenance, repair, and minor construction projects in Columbia, SC. This role is ideal for an estimator with a background in either military facility operations (DPW, JOC, SABER) OR commercial facility maintenance, renovations, and tenant improvements (TI). You will act as a technical advisor, reviewing contractor proposals, developing independent cost estimates, and ensuring that all facility repairs and alterations are technically sound, cost-effective, and code-compliant.

Requirements

  • 3+ years of experience in construction estimating, specifically focusing on facility renovations, repairs, tenant improvements (TI), or facility maintenance (FM).
  • Practical experience developing detailed specifications, scopes of work, and project schedules.
  • Working knowledge of MEP systems (HVAC, plumbing/piping, electrical, fire protection, and ventilation).
  • Experience conducting building inspections or facility condition assessments.
  • Familiarity with RSMeans or similar industry-standard estimating databases.
  • Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS / Maximo).
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints/drawings; familiarity with AutoCAD or MicroStation is preferred.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to review contractor proposals for cost reasonability.
  • Ability to work independently, manage shifting timelines, and communicate professionally with both clients and contractors.
  • Must be eligible for, or currently possess, a favorable National Agency Check with Inquiry (NACI) / Tier 1 background investigation in accordance with AR 380-67 (Required for base access and CAC issuance).
  • Valid Driver’s License (required for local site visits).

Nice To Haves

  • Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Estimating Professional (CEP), or LEED AP (Not Required).

Responsibilities

  • Review and evaluate cost proposals submitted by contractors for facility maintenance, repair, and minor construction.
  • Ensure estimates conform with client requirements, commercial building codes, or Army regulations.
  • Develop Independent Government Estimates (IGEs) or detailed commercial cost estimates for repairs, remodeling, renovations, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) system upgrades.
  • Estimate manpower, material costs, and project schedules/duration.
  • Review A/E drawings, blueprints, and specifications for feasibility and adherence to engineering fundamentals.
  • Evaluate Preventative Maintenance Plans, Quality Assurance Plans, and as-built drawings.
  • Assist in drafting detailed Statements of Work (SOW), technical specifications, and preliminary sketches for contract modifications.
  • Prepare design deficiency reports and contract adjustment recommendations.
  • Conduct periodic site visits and facility condition assessments to study building conditions and gather data for scopes of work and estimates.
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