Cost Estimator

About this Role

Consertus is seeking a Cost Estimator to support LA Metro’s LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games Program. This program includes a range of capital improvement projects such as Mobility Hubs, bus initiatives, and other supporting infrastructure.

• Develop independent and/or contractor‑style construction cost estimates across all phases (conceptual, schematic, design development, construction documents, and change order pricing).
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications; validate scope completeness and constructability considerations.
• Prepare clear and comprehensive documentation, including assumptions, inclusions/exclusions, indirects, escalation, and contingency rationale.
• Apply appropriate labor, equipment, productivity, material pricing, taxes, insurance, and markups to develop accurate estimates.
• Support estimates for projects delivered under alternative delivery methods, including evaluation of contractor proposals, design‑assist inputs, and progressive design‑build pricing.
• Analyze and support cost impacts associated with scope changes, schedule impacts, and risk items; assist with pricing evaluations and reconciliations.
• Participate in estimate reviews, peer reviews, and reconciliation meetings with client and third‑party estimators and/or contractors.
• Coordinate with Project Controls, scheduling, and project management teams to ensure estimate alignment with project scope, delivery strategy, and schedule milestones.
• Support change order evaluations and negotiations by providing estimate detail and technical justification.
• Maintain estimating files, quantity takeoff backups, pricing references, and historical cost data to support benchmarking and future estimates.

Required experience and education:

• 15+ years of construction cost estimating experience, including large, complex capital projects.
• Demonstrated estimating experience in contractor or design‑build environments.
• Experience supporting alternative delivery methods such as Design‑Build, Progressive Design‑Build, CMGC/CMAR.
• Strong ability to read and interpret plans/specifications and develop detailed scope‑based estimates.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and Microsoft Office tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present estimate rationale and defend assumptions.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.

• Experience supporting major rail/transit programs for public agencies (LA Metro experience a plus).
• Experience with estimating tools such as Bluebeam, On‑Screen Takeoff (OST), CostX, Accubid, HCSS Heavy Bid, and/or Sage/Timberline.
• Familiarity with project controls practices (WBS alignment, cost breakdown structures, cash flow/time phasing).
• Certifications such as CPE/CEP, PMP, and/or LEED AP.

Location:

Los Angeles, CA (either Gateway (Metro HQ) or DTLA). Work arrangement:
Hybrid; expected in‑office 4 days per week and 1 day remote.

Schedule:

Full‑time, exempt role with standard business hours.

Compensation Range: $187,200 – $210,000 annually; eligible for bonus.

• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision).
• Optional benefits: pet insurance, legal insurance, and supplemental health plans.
• 401(k) with day‑one eligibility; 100% match on the first 3% and 50% match on contributions between 3% and 5%.
• Generous time off: 10 paid holidays, PTO starting at 15 days, growing to up to 25 days.
• Access to Consertus Academy for continuous learning and development.

Consertus is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status.