Job Title: Estimation Engineer
Job Summary:
The Senior Estimation Engineer is responsible for leading the preparation of detailed and accurate cost estimates for complex and large-scale projects. This role involves providing strategic input into project planning, overseeing the estimation process, managing vendor and client relationships, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry standards. The Senior Engineer mentors junior team members and drives continuous improvement initiatives in cost estimation practices.
Key Responsibilities:
Cost Estimation and Analysis:
- Lead the preparation of comprehensive cost estimates for large-scale, multi-phase projects based on technical specifications, blueprints, and project requirements.
- Perform advanced material takeoffs, labor cost analysis, and equipment cost evaluations, ensuring accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
- Review and validate vendor and subcontractor quotations, negotiating terms to optimize costs while maintaining quality standards.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Prepare detailed cost breakdowns, project proposals, and executive summaries for internal stakeholders and client presentations.
- Maintain and manage detailed records of estimation activities, including pricing databases, vendor quotes, and historical cost data.
- Ensure all documentation complies with regulatory and organizational standards and is audit-ready.
Collaboration and Coordination:
- Collaborate with project managers, design teams, and procurement departments to align cost estimates with project scopes and objectives.
- Engage with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to address technical and financial queries and provide solutions.
- Participate in bid clarification meetings, negotiations, and post-bid reviews to provide expert input on cost-related matters.
Strategic and Process Optimization:
- Develop and implement strategies to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of cost estimation practices.
- Stay updated on market trends, emerging technologies, and industry best practices to integrate innovative solutions into the estimation process.
- Contribute to long-term planning by providing strategic insights into budgeting and cost management trends.
Mentorship and Leadership:
- Mentor and guide junior and mid-level estimation engineers, providing technical expertise and fostering professional growth.
- Oversee the estimation team's workflow, ensuring deadlines are met and deliverables are of the highest quality.
- Act as a subject matter expert for complex estimation projects and technical challenges.
Compliance and Quality Assurance:
- Ensure all estimates align with project specifications, industry standards, and organizational guidelines.
- Lead internal and external audits related to cost estimation and address findings with corrective actions.
- Perform quality checks on estimates, ensuring their accuracy and completeness before submission.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Expertise in estimation principles, methodologies, and advanced cost analysis techniques.
- Advanced understanding of engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation.
- Proficiency in estimation software (e.g., CostX, Primavera, or equivalent) and advanced spreadsheet tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).
- In-depth knowledge of construction materials, labor costs, and equipment pricing across relevant industries.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills for managing complex estimation challenges.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or related field).
- Advanced certifications in cost estimation, project management (e.g., PMP), or related areas are highly desirable.
Key Focus Areas:
- Process Control in Drilling, Refining, and Extraction: Leading the estimation of large-scale process control systems for drilling, refining, and extraction projects, ensuring all cost elements are accurately forecasted and optimized, while adhering to project timelines and budgets.
- SCADA Systems for Pipeline Management: Overseeing the estimation process for complex SCADA systems, ensuring that all system integration, material, and labor costs are accurately accounted for, while balancing cost control and system performance requirements.
- Safety and Emergency Shutdown Systems: Leading the estimation for safety and emergency shutdown systems, ensuring all components, system design, installation, and compliance-related costs are accurately included in project cost plans.
- Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all project cost estimations fully incorporate environmental and regulatory compliance requirements, factoring in any associated costs, permits, certifications, and sustainability practices.
- Strategic Cost Planning and Optimization: Developing strategies for efficient cost estimation, driving process improvements, optimizing resource allocation, and identifying cost-saving opportunities across complex, multi-faceted projects.
- Team Leadership and Stakeholder Collaboration: Managing estimation teams, providing mentorship, and collaborating with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams to align cost estimates with overall project objectives and business goals.
Experience:
- 7-10 years of experience in cost estimation or a related field, with proven expertise in handling large-scale projects.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and manage cross-functional teams in complex estimation processes.
Tools and Technologies:
- Advanced proficiency in estimation tools such as CostX, Primavera, or equivalent.
- Familiarity with ERP systems and data analysis tools to support estimation accuracy.
Other Requirements:
- Exceptional leadership and communication skills to interact with stakeholders, vendors, and team members effectively.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously.
- Commitment to delivering accurate, high-quality estimates under tight deadlines.
- Willingness to travel as needed for client meetings, vendor negotiations, and project reviews.