Cost Estimator; GS

GTSC and its Global Sciences and Technology (GST) business unit seeks a highly skilled Cost Estimator to serve as a strategic advisor to a Federal Program Management Office (PMO). In this capacity, you will be responsible for the end-to-end development, validation, and defense of cost estimates that underpin critical acquisition decisions. This position is located in Silver Spring, MD and has been approved for a hybrid work schedule.

The successful candidate will move beyond simple spreadsheet modeling to provide "decision-quality" analysis. You will help the government navigate complex fiscal environments by ensuring all estimates are comprehensive, accurate, well-documented, and credible—the four characteristics of a high-quality cost estimate defined by the GAO.

• Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCE): Covering R&D, operations & support (O&S), and disposal costs.
• WBS Development: Collaborate with engineers to develop and maintain a product-oriented Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Cost Element Structure (CES).
• Methodology Selection: Apply a mix of estimating methodologies based on data maturity, including:
  Parametric, Analogy, and Engineering Build-Up.
• Data Collection & Normalization: Research and collect historical cost, technical, and programmatic data from sources.
• Software Cost Estimating.

• Includes Monte Carlo Simulation, Risk Register Integration, Sensitivity Analysis, and performing integrated cost-schedule risk analysis to predict the probability of meeting both cost and schedule targets simultaneously.

• Prepare budget quality defense exhibits and briefing materials for the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) process (e.g., POM slides, Exhibit 300s).
• Conduct Earned Value Management (EVM) Support:
  Analyze Cost Performance Index (CPI) and Schedule Performance Index (SPI) to forecast Estimates at Completion (EAC).
• Conduct Cost Analysis Requirements Description (CARD).

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Operations Research, Mathematics, Economics, Industrial Engineering, Finance, or a related quantitative discipline. (Master's degree preferred).
• Experience: 8-12 years of experience, including leadership in developing estimates for major ACAT I or II programs.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Deep understanding of the GAO Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide, FAR Part 15 (Contracting by Negotiation), and DoD 5000.02 policies.
• Specialized Software: Expert proficiency in ACEIT (Automated Cost Estimating Integrated Tools) is highly desired. Proficiency in Crystal Ball, @Risk, or SEER suite.
• Microsoft Excel: Advanced mastery is mandatory (e.g., array formulas, VBA macros for automation, complex pivot tables, data modeling).
• Schedule Integration: Familiarity with Microsoft Project or Primavera to understand the link between schedule duration and cost (marching army costs).

Applicants selected will be subject to a government background investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements.

Employees working 30 hours weekly: We celebrate your contributions and will provide you with opportunities and choices and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care for full‑time employees working 30‑plus hours per week. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance.

Business Unit:
Global Sciences and Technology (GST)

If this position is listed as remote or hybrid, you'll periodically work from a company or client site facility.

GTSC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race or ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran disability or genetic information or any other reason prohibited by law in employment.

GTSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities.

GTSC participates in the E-Verify program in all locations as required by law.