Prepare portions of contract proposal estimates for one or more disciplines, including the determination of applicable project plans and specifications.
Job Responsibilities
Creates and leads the cost estimate effort with no oversight.
Proactive in obtaining information about projects and design concepts as early in the design stages as feasible. Takes full accountability for the cost estimate at an early stage of design and proactively search out information about the design from the Design Managers, Architects, Engineers, and/or Owners to start building a comprehensive estimate as early as possible.
Participates in design review meetings. Reviews and monitors scope, cost, and constructability during design development.
If information is lacking, then is responsible for communicating the need to the team leader, design team, or customer, as required for that cost estimate.
Works closely with Architects and Engineers to determine complete scope and design. Ability to accurately determine construction costs at an early design stage and work with Architects, Engineers, and/or Owner’s to design within the funding limitations.
Can perform preliminary concept design estimates with multiple schemes of design for new construction or renovations.
Pre-planning and concept phases, feasibility studies, program development studies, design development, construction documents, and final construction documents.
Perform market surveys as needed to determine all factors influencing construction costs relevant to the current stage of design.
Participate in value engineering studies and can provide optional designs.
Maintain files of working documents as back-up for estimate figures, including current (accurate) information on prices from suppliers through direct contact, sales brochures, price lists, etc.
Support other department personnel as required - may include preparing estimates in other disciplines.
May review design options and recommend best solution based on cost, engineering quality, or availability of materials.
Assists architects/engineers/design managers in contractor progress claims for payment and issuance of payment certificates.
Assists architects/engineers/design managers in contractor claims for variations of the project.
Answer contractor general queries regarding projects.
Provides architects/engineers/design managers input on project schedules, cost, and progress.
Assists architects/engineers/design managers in reviewing and approving contractor payment requests and change orders.
Travel:
Meets with local subcontractors, attends bid walks, and attends conferences as necessary.
Approximate travel 5-20%
Misc:
Perform other duties as assigned.
Education/Experience:
Four-year engineering, architecture, or construction degree or equivalent combinations of technical training and / or experience or plus 5-7 years of experience; or 10 years of relevant experience in the architecture and engineering industry.
Specific Knowledge, Skills, License, Certifications Etc.
Ability to understand owner/engineer requirements with conceptual ability to work with minimal information.
Knowledge of construction, materials system, market conditions and trade practices.
Knowledge of estimating software (preference for Beck Destini, Accubid, Bluebeam, InSite, etc.)
Excellent computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office suite programs
Detailed and deadline oriented, well-organized and ability to prioritize.
Strong organizational skills.
Excellent oral and written skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with internal clients, external clients, and subcontractors.
Has completed AACE “Certified Cost Professional” or similar approved certifications.
Experience with MII a plus.
AIA or PE preferred but not required if applicant possess exemplary knowledge of field and multiple certifications.
LEED certification a plus.
Core Competencies
Accountability: Accepting responsibility that results in anticipation/prevention of problem areas from actions, and problem solving inside and outside the department/organization.
Customer Focus: Makes service to internal and external customers a priority; focuses on exceeding customer expectations, not just meeting them; recognizes and values all key stakeholders; applies and develops service excellence skills.
Effective Communication: Listens for understanding and appreciation, encourages open feedback; presents clearly and effectively one on one, and in small and large group settings; considers the audience in preparing messages and in choosing the appropriate communication channels; creates and encourages open channels of communication.
Execution/Empowerment: Demonstrates the ability to get results; manages competing demands in fast paced environment with effective results; identifies and creates contingency solutions to ensure timely execution.
Learning & Development: Learning new skills and increasing capabilities a high priority; takes action to address development needs in self and others, if applicable; identifies gaps and learning opportunities to ensure complete technical job proficiency; takes responsibility for own development and skills improvement.
Benham is an architecture, engineering, and design build firm with a very diverse client base: large and small, private and public. We embrace each client relationship, helping them reach where they want to be, working collaboratively and strategically to deliver innovation, high quality and sustainability performance. The goals, expectations and needs of our clients provide the foundation for every project we accomplish together.