Project Estimator
WSPWSP is currently initiating a search for a Project Estimator to join our Estimating team. This individual will report to our client’s office in Amarillo, TX (Hybrid 2 times per week). Employees may travel to a WSP office (Fort Worth, TX) for periodic meetings.
This Opportunity
The Project Estimator contributes to the development of cost estimates for a range of infrastructure and building projects by applying established knowledge of estimating methods and construction practices. This role performs quantity take-offs, supports pricing and scope analysis, and assists with developing detailed cost data in alignment with client and project requirements. With guidance, the position begins to take responsibility for discipline-specific estimating tasks and deliverables. The position supports to estimate development and review activities that inform planning and decision making, with a focus on consistency, transparency, and adherence to defined estimating standards.
Your Impact
- Interpret project specifications, drawings, and scope documentation to identify relevant cost components
- Perform quantity take-offs for multiple construction disciplines, including civil, structural, architectural, and mechanical systems
- Input and maintain estimate information using approved estimating software and templates
- Research and apply appropriate labor and material cost information based on location, project type, and duration
- Assist in the preparation of detailed cost breakdowns appropriate to the phase of work
- Contribute to the development of direct and indirect cost estimates for construction work
- Coordinate with discipline leads, designers, and engineers to clarify design assumptions and construction methods
- Develop cost comparisons and variance reports to evaluate alternatives and value engineering options
- Track estimate versions and maintain organized documentation for internal review and audit purposes
- Assist with the creation of scope clarifications, inclusions, and exclusions for bid proposals
- Support the development of unit pricing, productivity rates, and escalation factors in estimate development
- Participate in internal estimate reviews and provide input on cost drivers and risk areas
- Perform site visits or attend pre-bid meetings as needed to support estimating tasks
- Ensure compliance with corporate standards, estimating procedures, and client-specific requirements
- Maintain records of assumptions, methods, and reference data used in each estimate
- Assist in the evaluation of historical project data to support benchmarking and cost validation
- Contribute to cost modeling and early-stage budgeting efforts for feasibility studies or conceptual designs
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness of estimates
- Analyze historical project cost data to identify trends, ratios, and cost drivers that support estimate development
- Participate in training, development, and process improvement initiatives to enhance estimating capability
- Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures
- Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Construction Science, or a closely related discipline, or proven equivalent experience
- 1 to 3 years of relevant post-education experience in estimating or related areas
- Proficiency in construction estimating fundamentals, including quantity-based estimating
- Proficiency with estimating and reporting tools, including Microsoft Excel and estimating software (e.g., InEight, RSMeans, Bluebeam or similar)
- Ability to review and interpret construction documents, specifications, and technical drawings
- Understanding of labor productivity concepts and cost build-up principles used in construction estimating
- Working knowledge of standard estimating deliverables and documentation practices
- Ability to interpret and use contractor/vendor cost inputs as reference information for estimating
- Ability to clearly document estimating approach, assumptions and methodologies
- Basic understanding of direct and indirect cost components and unit-rate concepts used in construction estimating
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Office 365
- Ability to navigate enterprise data systems to support estimating inputs
- Strong organizational and documentation skills with attention to detail
- Ability to communicate clearly with internal stakeholders and design teams
- Willingness to learn estimating processes, templates, and documentation standards, and to improve estimating consistency over time
- Ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet deadlines under guidance
- Familiarity with industry construction standards and building methods
- Analytical mindset and ability to synthesize data from multiple sources
- Awareness of safety, environmental, and permitting considerations that can affect construction scope and cost
- Demonstrated interest in pursuing a long-term career in cost estimating
- Ability to contribute to team discussions and collaborative problem-solving
- Experience using historical project actuals to develop ratios, trends, and benchmarks that inform estimates
- Commitment to ethical practices and compliance with corporate policies
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelors Degree with advanced course work or training related to construction estimating, engineering economics or cost analysis
- Experience supporting cost estimates for public infrastructure or large capital projects
- Exposure to alternative project delivery models and how they influence construction cost estimating
- Familiarity with construction practices common to energy infrastructure projects
- OSHA 10 certification or equivalent safety training
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