Manager Estimating

Zachry Group•Freeport, TX

15h

About The Position

The Manager Estimating leads estimating efforts from conceptual studies through detailed engineering. The role develops accurate, defendable cost estimates that help clients and project teams evaluate project viability and make investment decisions. The position supports projects across multiple markets, including complex and challenging projects.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Business, or a related technical field.
10+ years of estimating experience supporting EPC, EPCM, design-build, or major capital project environments.
Demonstrated estimating experience on power generation, process, chemical, refining, LNG, industrial, or nuclear projects.
Advanced proficiency with Cleopatra Enterprise estimating software.
Experience developing Class 5 through Class 1 estimates.
Strong understanding of construction means and methods, labor productivity, equipment costs, indirect costs, escalation, and contingency development.
Experience reviewing engineering deliverables, including PFDs, P&IDs, plot plans, equipment lists, specifications, and quantity takeoffs.
Ability to lead estimate teams and coordinate multidisciplinary estimate development.
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to present estimate results effectively to senior leadership and clients.

Nice To Haves

Experience estimating combined-cycle power generation projects.
Experience supporting nuclear or Department of Energy projects.
Aspen Capital Cost Estimator experience or certification.
Experience with risk analysis and contingency modeling.
Experience supporting proposals exceeding $100M in total installed cost.
Knowledge of project controls, scheduling, earned value management, and cost forecasting processes.

Responsibilities

Prepare and review estimate basis documents, assumptions, exclusions, risks, and estimating methodologies.
Coordinate with engineering, procurement, construction, project controls, and business development teams to develop project cost forecasts.
Develop direct and indirect cost estimates covering labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, construction services, and home office costs.
Use historical data, benchmarking, and productivity metrics to validate estimates and identify improvement opportunities.
Review quantities and validate estimates using engineering deliverables, vendor quotations, and historical project information.
Assess project risks and recommend contingency based on estimate maturity and project complexity.
Lead estimate review meetings and present results to project leadership, clients, and executive management.
Support proposal development, project pursuits, and business development activities.
Mentor junior estimators and provide technical guidance on estimating methodologies, systems, and best practices.
Coordinate with project controls to align estimating with scheduling, forecasting, and project execution strategies.
Support estimate-to-project handoffs and provide estimating assistance during project execution as needed.