An Estimator is responsible for deciding the projected time frame needed to complete a project and additional factors like labor needs, materials, budgets and potential setbacks. Their duties include communicating with personnel and contractual professionals or vendors, using computer software to weigh production risks or compile reports and making presentations to project leaders outlining their suggestions for upcoming projects.
A Estimator should be able to fulfill various duties and responsibilities. The following are some duties and responsibilities a Estimator should be able to execute:
- Analyzing requirement documents, blueprints and project plans to gain a thorough understanding of the project
- Determining what factors of production will influence the cost of a service or product
- Preparing material estimates and cost estimates for the product or service
- Creating labor estimates for any project
- Developing and maintaining relationships with company vendors and contractors
- Managing bids from vendors and contractors
A competitive Estimator will have certain skills and qualifications, including:
- Proficiency in mathematics, statistics and data analysis
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
- Report writing and strategic planning skills
- Familiarity with analyzing requirement data to develop material and cost estimates for large projects
- Expertise with analytic tools, such as spreadsheets and database managers
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents
