The Estimator & Cost Control Coordinator leads the preparation of accurate cost estimates bid packages and financial controls across all project phases. This role is responsible for owning the estimation and cost control process ensuring alignment with project budgets schedules and business objectives while contributing to commercial strategy and risk management.
Detailed Responsibilities:
Pre-Construction (Estimating & Tendering):
- Independently review and analyze project plans specifications and contractual requirements to prepare accurate cost estimates and Bills of Quantities (BOQs) across multiple disciplines (architectural structural MEP finishes siteworks).
- Lead the preparation of bid forms bid packages and client proposals ensuring scope clarity and alignment with project objectives.
- Conduct bid evaluation and leveling comparing subcontractor/vendor quotations for scope compliance cost competitiveness and risk exposure.
- Lead value engineering exercises identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising design intent or quality.
- Liaise with suppliers subcontractors and project teams to gather pricing technical clarifications and market intelligence.
- Develop detailed cost breakdowns by trade/division providing key inputs for commercial decision-making and negotiations.
Post-Construction (Cost Control & Financial Management):
- Draft review and finalize subcontract agreements purchase orders (POs) and change order documentation in alignment with contractual and financial requirements.
Manage and control change orders including cost impact assessments documentation negotiation support and reporting.
- Lead job costing ensuring accurate tracking of actual costs vs. budgeted figures and identifying any variances early.
- Maintain and update cost logs budget trackers cash flow forecasts and financial performance reports.
- Prepare and present Earned Value Management (EVM) reports including Cost Performance Index (CPI) Schedule Performance Index (SPI) variance analyses and trend forecasting.
- Oversee subcontractor payment applications retention tracking insurance & bond compliance and final account close-out.
- Collaborate with the accounting and finance teams to ensure alignment of project records with financial reporting and controls.
Cross-Functional Leadership:
- Serve as a key commercial point of contact collaborating with project managers procurement legal design teams and senior leadership to align financial performance with project delivery.
- Participate in and lead internal progress meetings commercial reviews client meetings and risk workshops.
- Mentor and provide guidance to junior estimators and cost control staff supporting their development and ensuring consistency in project delivery.
Requirements
- Strong knowledge of construction methods cost estimation project controls and commercial risk.
- Advanced proficiency in quantity take-offs cost estimation software (Bluebeam PlanSwift CostX Candy or equivalent) and Microsoft Excel.
- Demonstrated experience in budgeting job costing cash flow forecasting and financial reporting.
- Solid understanding of contract law change management and subcontractor negotiation.
- Proficient in Earned Value Management (EVM) CPI/SPI calculations and variance analysis.
- Excellent analytical organizational and communication skills with the ability to present to senior leadership and clients.