Cost Estimator Job Los Angeles area,California USA,Construction

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical infrastructure challenges. As a Cost Estimator supporting the Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) Terminal 5 Program, you'll play a key role in delivering one of the nation's most high-profile aviation modernization initiatives. Working alongside program management, design, construction, and client teams, you'll provide comprehensive cost estimating services that support project planning, budgeting, procurement, and execution.

As a Cost Estimator, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining project cost estimates throughout all phases of design and construction for Terminal 5 capital improvement projects. You will provide detailed analyses, cost forecasting, benchmarking, and reporting to support informed project decision-making and successful delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document cost estimates for aviation and vertical construction projects.
Develop detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analyses from plans, specifications, and technical documents.
Review consultant and contractor estimates for completeness, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards.
Perform independent cost estimates (ICE) and estimate reconciliation exercises.
Support budget development, cost planning, and program-wide forecasting activities.
Analyze labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, escalation, and market conditions affecting project costs.
Assist project controls teams with cost trending, change management, contingency analysis, and risk assessments.
Participate in value engineering workshops and constructability reviews.
Develop and maintain historical cost databases and benchmarking tools.
Coordinate closely with LAWA stakeholders, designers, contractors, and program management teams.
Prepare executive-level cost reports, presentations, and estimate documentation.
This role aligns to our Transportation team in California.

Here’s what you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field.
10+ years of cost estimating and/or project management experience supporting large capital projects.
Experience preparing detailed estimates for commercial, institutional, transportation, aviation, or infrastructure projects.
Knowledge of CSI divisions, construction means and methods, and current market pricing.
Proficiency in industry estimating software such as
On-Screen Takeoff
Bluebeam
Strong skills in Microsoft Excel and cost analysis.
Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project schedules.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Ideally, you’ll also have

Experience supporting airport, aviation, transportation, or large public-sector infrastructure programs.
Experience working with LAWA, aviation authorities, or major airport modernization projects.
Professional certifications such as
AACE International Certified Cost Professional (CCP)
Certified Estimating Professional (CEP)
PMP
Familiarity with project controls, earned value management, and risk-based estimating methodologies.
Experience on projects exceeding $1

Billion in construction value.

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