Cost Estimator

Job Details

Location - Energy Corridor - Houston, Texas

4 Days Onsite - 1 Day Work Remote

Cost Estimator – Marine Construction & Infrastructure

Our client is a leading engineering and construction organization specializing in complex marine, civil, and infrastructure projects throughout North America and internationally. With a long-standing reputation for delivering technically challenging projects safely and successfully, the company operates one of the industry's most advanced fleets and continues to expand into emerging markets supporting coastal resilience, environmental restoration, and offshore energy development.

The Estimating team plays a critical role in shaping the future project portfolio of the organization. This position offers the opportunity to work on some of the largest and most technically complex marine construction projects in the industry while partnering closely with executive leadership, operations, engineering, and project management teams.

Position Summary

The Cost Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for large-scale marine and heavy civil construction projects. This individual will analyze project plans and specifications, develop execution strategies, evaluate production methods, identify risks and opportunities, and present estimates to senior leadership during bid reviews.

The successful candidate will possess strong analytical capabilities, sound business judgment, and the ability to collaborate across multiple disciplines to develop winning project strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for competitive hard-bid and negotiated projects.
• Review project plans, specifications, geotechnical reports, schedules, and contract documents to identify scope requirements and project risks.
• Develop project execution plans, production strategies, and resource requirements to support estimate development.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs, pricing analyses, labor forecasts, equipment utilization plans, and subcontractor evaluations.
• Create clear and concise project graphics, conceptual layouts, and presentation materials to support internal review discussions.
• Present estimates, assumptions, risks, and project execution strategies during executive bid review meetings.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, project management, procurement, and field teams throughout the estimating process.
• Analyze historical project performance data and production metrics to improve estimating accuracy.
• Support project teams during execution by providing estimating guidance, budget clarification, and cost analysis.
• Monitor project costs, productivity, and budget performance throughout project execution and assist with forecasting efforts.
• Evaluate alternative construction methods and value-engineering opportunities to improve project competitiveness.
• Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting strict bid deadlines.
• Participate in lessons learned reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of estimating, project controls, construction management, engineering, or project management experience supporting large-scale construction or infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of construction means and methods, project scheduling, cost control, and budgeting principles.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and contract documents.
• Advanced analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information to senior leadership.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and standard estimating software tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in a deadline-driven environment.

Preferred

• Experience estimating marine, dredging, heavy civil, transportation, infrastructure, industrial, EPC, offshore, or large capital projects.
• Knowledge of equipment-based production estimating methodologies.
• Experience supporting projects involving waterways, ports, coastal restoration, offshore construction, or environmental remediation.
• Familiarity with scheduling software such as Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project.
• Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Cost Professional (CCP), PMP, or related professional certification.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique

• Direct exposure to executive leadership and strategic project pursuits.
• Opportunity to work on highly visible, technically challenging projects with national significance.
• Collaborative team environment focused on mentorship, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
• Long-term career growth opportunities within estimating, project management, operations, and leadership functions.
• Exposure to emerging sectors including offshore energy and large-scale infrastructure development.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including comprehensive health benefits, retirement savings programs, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and long-term career advancement potential.

JAB Recruitment is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, citizenship status, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V

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