PDS Estimator

JLL•Los Angeles, CA

4d•Remote

About The Position

The Capital Planning Estimator is responsible for developing accurate project schedule and financial estimates during the pre-migration phase of capital projects, serving as a critical link between Capital Planning and Project Delivery teams. This role ensures financial viability of projects through detailed cost modeling, timeline forecasting, and risk assessment before projects are approved for execution. The Estimator will also support Project Managers in developing robust budget requests and navigating approval processes once projects transition to the delivery phase. Reporting to the Capital Planning Director, this position will be instrumental in establishing estimation standards, enhancing financial accuracy, and improving the overall predictability of capital projects from conception through delivery.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in construction estimation, cost management, or quantity surveying, preferably in commercial real estate
Strong technical knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry standards
Proficiency in estimation software and financial modeling tools
Experience developing project schedules and identifying critical path dependencies
Demonstrated ability to analyze construction documents and extract relevant cost information
Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy
Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to diverse stakeholders
Knowledge of capital planning processes and project governance frameworks
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Professional certification such as Certified Cost Estimator/Professional (CCE/P), Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), or similar credential
Experience working with integrated capital planning systems and financial management platforms
Understanding of lifecycle costing and total cost of ownership principles
Knowledge of sustainable building practices and their cost implications
Experience supporting capital projects in multiple geographic regions

Responsibilities

Develop comprehensive cost estimates and project schedules for capital projects prior to governance approval
Analyze project scope documents to identify cost drivers, potential risks, and resource requirements
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and apply appropriate cost factors based on project location, complexity, and market conditions
Create multi-scenario financial models to support decision-making during the capital planning process
Validate preliminary estimates from stakeholders and refine assumptions to ensure accuracy
Establish and maintain standardized estimation templates and tools to ensure consistency across the capital planning portfolio
Develop historical cost databases and benchmarks to improve estimation accuracy over time
Perform cost-benefit analyses and value engineering recommendations during the due diligence phase
Create project phasing strategies that align with budget cycles and operational constraints
Document estimation methodology and maintain an audit trail of cost assumptions
Partner with Project Managers to prepare and defend budget requests/approvals during the delivery phase
Develop clear documentation packages that substantiate budget adjustments and change orders
Conduct variance analyses between estimated and actual costs to continuously improve estimation accuracy
Support the change management process by providing financial impact assessments of scope modifications
Assist in developing contingency recommendations based on risk assessments
Work closely with Capital Planning Managers to enhance financial components of project intake and due diligence
Collaborate with the Global Engineering Center to incorporate technical specifications into cost estimates
Partner with Transaction and Sustainability teams to quantify financial implications of strategic initiatives
Provide estimation expertise during Capital Plan Governance Meetings to inform decision-making
Serve as a financial liaison between Capital Planning and Project Delivery teams
Identify opportunities to streamline estimation processes through technology and best practice implementation
Develop KPIs to measure estimation accuracy and drive continuous improvement
Lead training sessions on estimation methodologies for stakeholders across the organization
Stay current on market conditions and industry trends that impact project costs and timelines
Contribute to the development of estimation functionality within the AdaptiveWork Capital Planning Module