Estimating Intern; Summer

Position: Estimating Intern (Summer 2026)
Location: Elizabethtown

Employment Type:

Intern

Division:
Estimating

Department:
Estimating

Salary Range: $23 - $28/hour

The Estimating Intern supports the estimating team by assisting with quantity take-offs, subcontractor coordination, product research, and document management.

This role offers hands-on experience in cost comparisons, record maintenance, and aligning estimating activities with project goals within a dynamic construction environment.

Responsibilities / Essential Functions

* Assist with quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and cost comparisons; compile detailed estimates for materials, labor, and project systems, documenting assumptions and qualifications.

* Manage subcontractor lists and contacts, conduct research on products and suppliers, and maintain accurate estimating databases and records.

* Conduct site visits to collect project-specific data-such as access, topography, and utilities-and analyze historical cost data to support bids.

* Prepare and reconcile cost estimates against previous projects and assist in monitoring actual vs. estimated expenditures to assess cost effectiveness.

* Facilitate collaboration by coordinating with engineers, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams throughout the estimating process.

* Support bid development by preparing expenditure statements, maintaining tender documentation, and participate in estimate review and value-engineering sessions.

* Utilize cost-monitoring systems to identify potential risks or variances, contributing to negotiations and decision-making.

* Maintain precise and timely updates in estimating databases and project files to ensure smooth estimating workflows and compliance with company procedures.

Key Skills

* Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly convey information to subcontractors, internal teams, and stakeholders.

* Excellent attention to detail to ensure accuracy in cost calculations, takeoffs, and documentation.

* Effective organizational skills to manage project files and maintain clear records across multiple active estimates.

* Time management skills to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced preconstruction environment.

* Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities with a focus on data accuracy and clarity.

* Ability to collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment.

* Demonstrated interest in the construction industry, especially in estimating or project planning roles.

* Adaptability and curiosity to learn new systems, methods, and technologies relevant to estimating.

Required Experience

* Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (strong preference for construction-focused programs).

* Foundational understanding of construction processes, materials, systems, and terminology.

* Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.

* Proficient in Microsoft Excel for cost tracking and analysis.

* Familiarity with estimating tools or software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar platforms) is a plus.

* Capable of conducting vendor, material, and cost research to support pricing accuracy.

* Experience organizing or contributing to bid documentation, cost databases, and takeoff files (preferred).

* Basic knowledge of unit pricing, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimating principles.