Project Controls Analyst, Project & Development Services

Cushman & Wakefield • Wilson, NC

1d

About The Position

The Project Estimator is responsible for preparing and supporting cost estimates for construction projects across various phases of design and delivery. This role works closely with project management, project controls, design teams, and construction partners to develop accurate, well-supported cost estimates and cost plans. The Estimator contributes to conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction-level estimates, analyzes cost drivers and market conditions, and supports value engineering and cost optimization efforts. This position is well-suited for an estimating professional with a solid technical foundation who is ready to take ownership of estimates for moderately complex projects while continuing to develop expertise in market benchmarking, cost modeling, and capital project delivery across sectors such as industrial, life sciences, healthcare, and other commercial construction environments.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of cost estimating methodologies across multiple project phases.
• Solid understanding of construction cost components including labor, materials, equipment, and general conditions.
• Ability to perform quantity takeoffs and develop bottom-up estimates.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to interpret design documents and coordinate with technical disciplines.
• Proficiency in spreadsheet-based estimating and basic cost modeling.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain cost information clearly.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively within cross-functional project teams.

Nice To Haves

• Experience estimating projects within sectors such as industrial, life sciences, healthcare, data centers, or large commercial construction.
• Familiarity with parametric estimating and benchmark-based cost planning.
• Experience using industry-standard estimating software and cost databases.
• Understanding of basic project controls concepts, including cost tracking and change management.

Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction-level cost estimates under the guidance of senior estimating and project leadership.
• Support the development of cost plans and estimate updates throughout the project lifecycle to align scope, schedule, and budget.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and other project documentation to quantify materials, labor, and equipment costs.
• Assist in identifying key cost drivers, assumptions, risks, and escalation factors affecting project estimates.
• Collaborate with project management and project controls teams to support budgeting, forecasting, and cost reporting.
• Participate in value engineering and cost optimization exercises with design and construction partners.
• Support the review and evaluation of contractor bids, subcontractor proposals, and third-party cost estimates.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of historical cost data, benchmarks, and estimating databases.
• Prepare estimate backup documentation and narratives suitable for internal and client review.
• Assist with cost comparisons, market research, and analysis of regional labor and material conditions.
• Participate in client and internal meetings to explain estimate development, assumptions, and variances.
• Support proposal and pursuit efforts by providing estimating assistance and cost input as required.

Benefits

• Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work.
• In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees