Become a Cost Estimator

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WHAT DOES A COST ESTIMATOR DO?

A Cost Estimator leverages data analysis to craft pricing evaluations, crucial in determining the value of time, finances, materials, and labor. The amalgamation of these individual costs significantly influences forecasting, a vital element for businesses spanning diverse industries.

While mathematical calculations form the foundation of a cost estimator’s work, the realm of cost estimation extends beyond numerical computation. It’s part of the larger domain of cost engineering, encompassing a spectrum from broad conceptual estimations to intricate, detailed projections. These predictions facilitate collaboration between vendors, contractors, managers, and clients on matters such as:

  • Budget
  • Performance of any project
  • Project scope – Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) & Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS)
  • Assumptions – Basis of Estimate (BOE)

With applications for products, services and construction, many cost estimators choose a niche. This is particularly helpful when it comes to learning industry specific software and other methods. For example, this may include:

  • Building information modeling (BIM)
  • Computer aided design (CAD)
  • Accounting and statistics

WHAT DO COST ESTIMATOR COURSES LOOK LIKE?

Some common courses include:

Cost Estimating and Bidding: Learn how to predict costs and bid for a fair price. In this course, you may learn methods for finding the best combo of unit price, volume, and cost.

Construction Cost Estimating: This course may cover what you need to know to predict what a building project will cost. That could include how to read blueprints, find unit costs, and more.

Computer Methods for Cost Analysis: Technology can help estimators figure out project costs in more detail. In a course like this, you could learn the tech tools and skills you need.

Construction Materials: In this course, you could get to know the items and parts used in building projects. That includes both inside and outside materials.

COST ESTIMATOR CAREER PATHS AND POTENTIAL SALARIES

CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATOR

Construction cost estimators usually require a bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering. Some colleges also offer master’s degree programs in construction management, equipping graduates to take on leadership roles and manage more intricate projects.

In the role of a construction cost estimator, tasks range from calculating the costs of constructing roads, bridges, shopping centers, to individual houses. These professionals evaluate expenses associated with raw materials and labor, establishing timelines for project completion. While many are employed directly by construction firms, others find roles within contractor and engineering firms.

Median Salary: $71,200 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: -3% (Decline)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

MANUFACTURING COST ESTIMATORS

Manufacturing cost estimators generally require a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or finance.

In the role of a manufacturing cost estimator, tasks involve calculating the costs associated with developing, producing, or redesigning various goods or services. For instance, a cost estimator employed by an auto manufacturer might evaluate the production costs of a new car model, providing essential insights for informed production decision-making by managers.

Median Salary: $71,200 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: -3% (Decline)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

BUDGET ANALYSTS

Budget analysts may have a bachelors degree in one of many areas including accounting, finance, business, public administration, economics, statistics.

As a budget analyst, one needs strong numerical and analytical skills. Studies often center around courses in accounting, economics and statistics.

Government budget analysts may also earn the Certified Government Financial Manager credential from the Association of Government Accountants. Maintaining said credential requires 80 hours of continued education every 2 years.

Median Salary: $82,260 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: 3% (As fast as average)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYSTS

Many operations research analysts today have a masters degree in engineering, computer science, analytics, or math. Though, BLS tells that most entry level workers have a bachelors degree.

As an operations research analyst, you will identify and solve problems with advanced math, statistics and computer analytics. The skills of operations research analysts are used in areas such as business, logistics and health care.

Median Salary: $85,720 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: 23% (Much faster than average)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

ACCOUNTANTS

Accountants may get started with a bachelors degree. However, to bridge the gap of credits needed to pursue a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential, many pursue a Masters in Accounting or MBA.

As an accountant, one may assess and prepare taxes and financial records. This works to ensure the financial health of businesses and organizations. Also, within this dynamic field, many accountants choose a niche within which to apply their skills. Forensic accounting and cost accounting are two examples.

Many accredited colleges and universities offer concentrations so that students may line up studies with interests.

Median Salary: $78,000 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: 4% (As fast as average)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

LOGISTICIANS

Some logisticians may get started with an associates degree. However, due to the complexity of supply chains, a bachelors degree in business, systems engineering, or supply chain management is more common. Masters and MBA in Supply Chain Management are also available.

Logisticians understand how to analyze and coordinate an organization’s supply chain. These individuals manage the entire life cycle of a product from design to disposal.

Median Salary: $77,520 per year

Job Growth Through 2028: 18% (Much faster than average)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

FINANCIAL MANAGERS

Financial managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business administration. For investment professionals aiming for industry certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), a bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite.

Presently, employers often prefer financial managers with a master’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or economics. These advanced graduate programs aid students in cultivating enhanced analytical abilities and delve into more intricate financial analysis techniques and relevant software applications.

Median Salary: $139,790 per year

Job Growth Through 2032: 16% (Much faster than average)

Common Entry level Education: Bachelor’s degree

MEET YOUR POTENTIAL AS A COST ESTIMATOR

Boost your skills and knowledge to become a cost estimator. Many accredited colleges and universities offer online degrees in the areas discussed in this article. Online degrees add a level of convenience for the at work professional or busy adult learner. Use the tools on this page to get matched with a school, subject, degree and format today.

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*https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_311.15.asp

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This is an offer for educational opportunities, not an offer for nor a guarantee of employment. Students should consult with a representative from the school they select to learn more about career opportunities in that field. Program outcomes vary according to each institution’s specific program curriculum. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify. The financial aid information on this site is for informational and research purposes only and is not an assurance of financial aid.

1 You must apply for a new loan each school year. This approval percentage is based on students with a Sallie Mae undergraduate loan in the 2018/19 school year who were approved when they returned in 2019/20. It does not include the denied applications of students who were ultimately approved in 2019/20.

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