Construction Estimator - City/State Programs

Procon is a top-ranked construction management and technology consulting firm with 25 years of experience delivering high‑impact projects across the U.S. and worldwide. An ENR Top 100 CM/PM firm for five consecutive years, we specialize in program management, project controls, commissioning, and technology—and offer an excellent platform to grow your career while shaping the future of the built environment.

Procon is seeking a Cost Estimator in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to develop accurate and timely estimates at design milestones, pricing for change orders, and supporting negotiations with contractors. The cost estimator will work closely with architects, engineers, project managers, and procurement staff to maintain cost control and support informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle for a wide range of projects.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.

• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably with K–12, higher education, or public-sector building projects.

• Strong proficiency in quantity takeoff software, estimating databases, and construction cost modeling tools.

• Thorough understanding of building systems, construction methods, and industry standard cost structures.

• Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings at all levels of completion.

• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse project teams and maintain professionalism in contractor interactions.

• Ability to be on site 5 days per week at the clients offices.

  Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certification such as Certified Estimating Professional (CEP), Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), or similar designation.

• Experience with public procurement processes and state/local construction regulations.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Develop detailed cost estimates at various design and construction stages, including quantity takeoffs, unit pricing, and cost breakdowns for all major building systems with clear, comprehensive estimate reports, cost summaries, and variance analyses.

• Review contractor proposals, bids, change order requests, and pricing breakdowns for accuracy, scope alignment, and cost reasonableness.

• Prepare cost models, conceptual estimates, and budget updates to support early planning and funding decisions.

• Support value engineering efforts and evaluate cost saving alternatives.

• Review drawings, specifications, and design narratives to identify scope, constructability issues, and cost impacts.

• Analyze design changes between milestones and communicate cost impacts to project stakeholders.

• Participate in negotiations with contractors to achieve fair and equitable pricing.

• Maintain historical cost data and benchmarking information to support accurate forecasting. Track and document cost trends, potential claims, and budget risks during construction.

• Assist in planning and pre-bid meetings, scope reviews, and procurement processes.

• Maintain organized estimating files, assumptions, and backup documentation.

• Present cost findings to district leadership, design teams, and community stakeholders as needed.

Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

Interested and qualified candidates please submit a cover letter and a resume.

Procon offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including full medical/dental insurance and 401(K) plan. Procon is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor.