Senior Cost Estimator

KKCS • Florence-Graham, CA

15d • Hybrid

About The Position

Consertus is seeking a seasoned Senior Cost Estimator to support LA Metro’s LINK US program in Los Angeles, CA. This role supports cost estimating activities for complex rail and transit capital projects and is responsible for producing accurate, defensible estimates throughout planning, design, and construction.

The ideal candidate has strong contractor-style estimating experience and has supported projects delivered using alternative procurement/delivery methods (e.g., Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, CMGC/CMAR). This individual will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, designers, and external stakeholders to support cost transparency, cost validation, and informed decision-making.

Requirements

• 15 years of construction cost estimating experience, including experience producing estimates for large, complex capital projects.
• Demonstrated estimating experience in contractor or design-build environments (hard-bid / heavy bid experience strongly desired).
• Experience supporting alternative delivery methods such as Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, CMGC/CMAR.
• Strong ability to read and interpret plans/specifications and develop detailed scope-based estimates.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and Microsoft Office tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to present estimate rationale and defend assumptions.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience).

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting major rail/transit programs for public agencies (LA Metro experience a plus).
• Experience with estimating tools such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff (OST), CostX, Accubid, HCSS HeavyBid, and/or Sage/Timberline.
• Familiarity with project controls practices (WBS alignment, cost breakdown structures, cash flow/time phasing).
• Certifications such as CPE/CEP, PMP, and/or LEED AP.

Responsibilities

• Develop independent and/or contractor-style construction cost estimates across all phases (conceptual/ROM, schematic, design development, construction documents, and change order pricing).
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications; validate scope completeness and constructability considerations.
• Prepare clear and comprehensive Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation, including assumptions, inclusions/exclusions, indirects, escalation, and contingency rationale.
• Apply appropriate labor, equipment, productivity, material pricing, taxes, insurance, and markups to develop accurate estimates.
• Support estimates for projects delivered under alternative delivery methods, including evaluation of contractor proposals, design-assist inputs, and progressive design-build pricing.
• Analyze and support cost impacts associated with scope changes, schedule impacts, and risk items; assist with pricing evaluations and reconciliations.
• Participate in estimate reviews, peer reviews, and reconciliation meetings with client and third-party estimators and/or contractors.
• Coordinate with Project Controls, scheduling, and project management teams to ensure estimate alignment with project scope, delivery strategy, and schedule milestones.
• Support change order evaluations and negotiations by providing estimate detail and technical justification.
• Maintain estimating files, quantity takeoff backups, pricing references, and historical cost data to support benchmarking and future estimates.
• Mentor junior estimators and support consistent estimating standards, processes, and quality controls.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, and vision)
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• Optional benefits like pet insurance, legal, and supplemental health plans
• 401(k) with day-one eligibility, 3% safe harbor, plus up to 2.5% company match
• Generous time off: 10 paid holidays and PTO starting at 15 days, growing up to 25
• Access to Consertus Academy for continuous learning and development

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level