Chief Estimator

Chief Estimator – Engineering Department, Port Authority of NY & NJ

Step into a defining leadership role at the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey as the Chief Cost Estimator and help shape one of the most ambitious transportation programs in the country. As the agency advances a transformative 10 Year Capital Plan—including next generation airport terminals, major bridge and tunnel rehabilitations, PATH modernization, marine and port upgrades, and state of good repair mega projects—you will be the strategic force ensuring every investment is grounded in rigor, transparency, and world class cost intelligence.

The Port Authority is delivering some of the most complex, high visibility infrastructure projects in the United States. This role offers a rare opportunity to elevate cost governance, strengthen estimating standards, and influence capital decisions that will shape mobility, resilience, and economic vitality for millions across the region for decades to come.

The Chief Estimator serves as the Engineering Department’s senior authority on construction and engineering cost intelligence and leads the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey’s Engineering estimating function, managing cost-governance frameworks and collaborates across Engineering, the PMO and business leadership to support successful project planning and delivery. The Chief Estimator is responsible for establishing estimating standards, overseeing the development of accurate and competitive project cost estimates, and providing strategic cost intelligence to support leadership decision making.

This position is responsible for developing accurate, defensible, and comprehensive cost estimates for large, complex engineering and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, strategic insight, and a collaborative mindset to support planning, risk management, and cost control efforts while ensuring alignment with agency standards and client expectations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Lead the organization’s estimating strategy, standards, and long-term vision. Provide executive-level guidance on cost implications, budget validation, and project feasibility. Support capital planning and organizational financial forecasting through cost intelligence.
• Cost Governance & Quality Assurance:
  Develop and maintain standardized estimating methodologies, tools, templates, and workflows. Oversee the preparation and review of conceptual, preliminary, and detailed estimates. Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with industry standards and client requirements. Conduct independent estimate reviews for high risk or high value projects.
• Market Intelligence & Cost Data Management:
  Maintain and enhance the organization’s cost database, including historical data, productivity benchmarks, and market trends. Monitor commodity pricing, labor rates, escalation factors, and supply chain conditions. Provide timely cost insights to support project planning and procurement strategies.
• Technical Expertise & Oversight:
  Guide teams in quantity takeoffs, cost modeling, risk analysis, and contingency development. Evaluate constructability, value engineering options, and alternative delivery methods. Support project teams in identifying cost drivers, scope gaps, and estimating risks.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  
  Partner with engineering, project management, finance, procurement, and executive leadership to integrate cost considerations throughout the project lifecycle. Participate in design reviews, project kickoff meetings, and bid evaluations. Provide cost-related input during contract negotiations and procurement planning.
• Risk Management:
  
  Lead cost risk assessments and scenario modeling to support informed decision making. Recommend contingency strategies and risk mitigation approaches. Support project controls monitoring cost performance and identifying variances.
• Team Leadership & Development:
  Manage, mentor, and develop the estimating team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Provide training on estimating tools, best practices,…