Senior Cost Estimator

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.

Requirements

• Required Experience
• 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.
• Required Education
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture , or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience).
• 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 .
• Working Hours & Location:
• Location: Los Angeles, CA (LA Metro - LINK US)
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid; expected to be in-office 3-4 days per week (based on project/client needs)
• Schedule: Full-time, exempt role with standard business hours
• Compensation Range: $187,200 - $197,600 annually; Eligible for Bonus.
• What

Benefits

Additional Information

Consertus is a global capital program management and advisory firm that combines deep human expertise with advanced digital tools to deliver smarter, faster, and more sustainable outcomes. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, and supported by a team of more than 1,000 professionals worldwide, we help clients plan, execute, and optimize large-scale capital programs. Our integrated services span digital, advisory, and delivery, empowering organizations to navigate complexity, manage risk, and achieve strategic goals in sectors including aviation, transportation, transit, water, healthcare, energy, education, government, commercial, life sciences, and technology. At Consertus, we celebrate individual strengths, foster strong relationships, and promote flexibility in how and where we work. Join us to grow your career, develop your skills, and make a lasting impact as we transform how the world is built. Discover how Consertus is driving transformative change for our clients, our people, and the communities we serve at www.consertus.com About this Role: 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.

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