Cost Estimation Engineer

Job Summary :

The Cost Estimation Engineer is expected to develop accurate, comprehensive, and competitive cost estimates for civil engineering projects from the initial design phase through to the preparation and submission of winning tenders. The ideal applicant will leverage their in-depth knowledge of civil engineering principles, construction practices, and market conditions to analyze project requirements, assess costs, and generate detailed estimates that support informed decision‑making, effective budgeting, and successful bid outcomes. Candidates must demonstrate excellent analytical, communication, and collaboration skills, as well as a commitment to accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement in both design and tendering processes. The role demands a proactive individual capable of working independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver high‑quality estimates and competitive bids that contribute to the company’s success.

Job Responsibilities :

Prepare detailed cost estimates for civil engineering projects (e.g., roads, bridges, water / wastewater infrastructure, buildings) during the design phase, ranging from conceptual to detailed design stages, and for inclusion in tender submissions.

Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to determine scope, material requirements, and potential cost drivers and risks relevant to bidding.

Develop accurate quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, and equipment, ensuring alignment with tender requirements.

Research and obtain current pricing data for materials, equipment, and subcontractors, seeking competitive pricing for bid preparation.

Apply labor rates, productivity factors, and overhead costs, considering market conditions and competitive bidding strategies.

Incorporate risk assessment and contingency planning into cost estimates, reflecting potential project challenges and opportunities to enhance bid competitiveness.

Collaborate with the tendering team to develop competitive and winning bids.

Prepare cost breakdowns and pricing schedules for tender submissions.

Review tender documents and identify any discrepancies or areas requiring clarification.

Support the development of value engineering proposals to optimize project costs and improve bid competitiveness.

Ensure compliance with all tender requirements and deadlines.

Collaborate closely with civil engineers, architects, and other design professionals to ensure estimates are aligned with design intent and constructability and optimized for cost‑effectiveness in the tendering process.

Review design documents and provide feedback on potential cost‑saving opportunities.

Participate in design review meetings to discuss cost implications of design choices, focusing on maximizing bid competitiveness.

Maintain a database of historical cost data to support future estimates and inform bidding strategies.

Analyze cost variances and identify trends to improve future estimate accuracy and bid competitiveness.

Develop and maintain cost estimation templates and procedures tailored for design and tendering purposes.

Prepare clear and concise cost estimation reports, including detailed breakdowns suitable for design and tendering applications.

Present cost estimates to project managers, clients, and stakeholders, articulating the basis for pricing decisions in tender submissions.

Maintain accurate documentation of all assumptions and data used in the estimation process, ensuring transparency and defensibility in tender evaluations.

Utilize cost estimation software (Procore, STACK, ProEst, HCSS, CCS Candy, HeavyBid, Bidding Software, Sage Estimating, etc.) to develop and manage cost estimates and prepare tender pricing schedules.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.).

Qualifications :

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.

Minimum of 10 years of experience in cost estimation.

Experience in both Engineering Design firms and Contracting companies is highly desirable. Candidates with significant relevant experience within a Contracting company may be considered even if their experience in an Engineering Design firm is less extensive.

Proven experience in preparing detailed cost estimates for a variety of civil engineering projects.

Experience in preparing and submitting competitive bids for civil engineering projects.

Strong understanding of civil engineering principles and construction practices.

Proficiency in cost estimation software (Procore, STACK, ProEst, etc.).

Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Knowledge of current market pricing for materials, equipment, and labor in the construction industry.

Preferred Qualifications :

Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) credential or equivalent is highly desirable.

Proven experience in cost estimation for roads, structures, bridges, municipal assets, and environmental management projects.

Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulations, including but not limited to AASHTO, ASCE, and Saudi Building Codes.

Skills : Cost Estimation

Quantity Takeoff

Civil Engineering Design

Data Analysis

Report Writing

Communication

Problem‑Solving

Tendering & Bid Preparation

Software Proficiency (Cost Estimation Software, Microsoft Office Suite)

Knowledge of Construction Materials and Methods

Risk Assessment

Job Type :

Contract Contract Length :

12 months Location :

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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