Sr. Cost Estimator

Luster National•Sacramento, CA

42d•$140,000 - $225,000•Onsite

About The Position

We’re seeking a Senior Cost Estimator to support large, complex transit and transportation programs delivered through both traditional and alternative methods. In this role, you’ll be a central contributor across multiple projects, developing clear and defensible cost estimates that inform key program decisions. You’ll support the full lifecycle of estimation activities, from planning through delivery, ensuring the work aligns with broader program goals and responsible financial management. This is a long-term, full-time, on-site position located in Sacramento, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction science/management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
10+ years of estimating experience on major transportation, transit, or rail transit infrastructure projects with a typical project size of $500M+.
In-depth knowledge of design and construction disciplines, including the means, methods, and sequencing on major transportation or transit infrastructure projects.
Strong ability to coordinate and leverage internal and external resources to produce accurate, risk-informed cost estimates within a schedule-driven, large-scale program environment.
Experience analyzing, reviewing, and estimating change orders.
Experience reading blueprints and generating quantities, work breakdown structures, and scopes of work.
Experience developing and delivering presentations.
Advanced proficiency with Timberline (now Sage 300); a significant portion of the role will involve loading and conditioning estimates in Timberline.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite/Office 365 (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in civil engineering or construction science/management.
Active professional certifications such as CEP, CCP, CCT (AACE); CPE (ASPE); CCM (CMAA); MRICS/FRICS, AssocRICS (RICS); or CCE/A (ICEAA).
Active Professional Engineer license (preferably in the state of CA).
15+ years of estimating experience, including a minimum of 10 years on transit or rail transit projects with a typical project size over $1B.
Experience delivering projects through both traditional and alternative methods (e.g., DB, CM/GC, P3).
Experience in estimating roles supporting owners.
Experience with Microsoft Power BI, Oracle Cloud Analytics, or other dashboard KPI reporting software.

Responsibilities

Develops and manages capital cost estimates for program and project components from conceptual planning through final design and construction.
Coordinates with engineering, project controls, and other technical disciplines to collect, validate, and integrate data used in cost development.
Supports preparation of programmatic capital cost estimates for business plans, baselines, and update reports.
Reviews and analyzes contractor estimates, bids, change proposals, and claims for accuracy, consistency, and compliance with program requirements.
Develops and maintains estimating procedures, tools, and methodologies to ensure standardization and continuous improvement across the program.
Participates in risk, value engineering, and constructability workshops to support cost validation and decision making.
Provides technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level estimators and analysts.

Benefits

Unlimited flexible time off
Paid holidays
Paid parental leave
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible spending accounts (healthcare and dependent or elder care)
Long-term disability insurance
Short-term disability insurance
Life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment
401(k) plan with guaranteed employer contribution
Formal career planning and development program
$2,500 annually toward professional development
Wellness program with monthly wellness stipend
Company cell phone or cell phone plan reimbursement
Free personalized meal planning and nutrition support with a registered dietitian
Free personal financial planning services
Employee assistance program
Employee discounts
Employee referral bonus