Facilities Cost Estimator​/Cost Engineer Security Clearance

Position: Facilities Cost Estimator / Cost Engineer with Security Clearance
Location: Columbia

The Building People delivers integrated solutions that connect technology, buildings, and people to optimize real estate performance, facility operations, and workforce outcomes. With over 450 contracts delivered across 187 project locations, we manage more than 1,700 facilities and support $38.5B in federal and commercial assets. Leveraging AI-driven automation, data analytics, and platform-agnostic systems, we create high-performing, future-ready environments that reduce cost, improve efficiency, and enable mission success.

Founded in 2012, we now have over 450 employees supporting 23 federal agencies-making us a trusted leader in delivering technology-infused building solutions across the public sector. The Building People is committed to fostering a workplace where every employee can thrive. Using tools like the Predictive Index, we thoughtfully align individual strengths with team needs
-ensuring the right fit, the right role, and long-term success. Our culture is rooted in integrity, innovation, and service. Through our growing philanthropy program, we support communities by focusing on gratitude, giving back, partnerships, and mentorship. Our Market Offerings Include:
* Real Estate & Workplace
* Facilities Management
* Facilities Operations & Maintenance
* Project Management & Engineering
* Workforce Transformation & Organizational Design
* Mission Support
* Smart Buildings & Energy Efficiency
* Technology Solutions Join our rapidly growing team and help shape the future of real estate, facilities, and community impact.

Job Description The Building People, LLC, is seeking a full-time Facilities Cost Estimator / Cost Engineer to support facility maintenance, repair, and minor construction projects in Columbia, SC. This role is ideal for an estimator with a background in either military facility operations (DPW, JOC, SABER) OR commercial facility maintenance, renovations, and tenant improvements (TI). You will act as a technical advisor, reviewing contractor proposals, developing independent cost estimates, and ensuring that all facility repairs and alterations are technically sound, cost-effective, and code-compliant.

Responsibilities/Duties Proposal & Estimate Review
* Review and evaluate cost proposals submitted by contractors for facility maintenance, repair, and minor construction.
* Ensure estimates conform with client requirements, commercial building codes, or Army regulations. Cost Estimate Development
* Develop Independent Government Estimates (IGEs) or detailed commercial cost estimates for repairs, remodeling, renovations, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) system upgrades.
* Estimate manpower, material costs, and project schedules/duration. Technical Plan Review
* Review A/E drawings, blueprints, and specifications for feasibility and adherence to engineering fundamentals.
* Evaluate Preventative Maintenance Plans, Quality Assurance Plans, and as-built drawings. Contract & Scoping Support
* Assist in drafting detailed Statements of Work (SOW), technical specifications, and preliminary sketches for contract modifications.
* Prepare design deficiency reports and contract adjustment recommendations. Site Inspections
* Conduct periodic site visits and facility condition assessments to study building conditions and gather data for scopes of work and estimates.
* This position will not have supervisory responsibilities. Skills & Requirements Required Experience & Skills
* 3+ years of experience in construction estimating, specifically focusing on facility renovations, repairs, tenant improvements (TI), or facility maintenance (FM).
* Practical experience developing detailed specifications, scopes of work, and project schedules.
* Working knowledge of MEP systems (HVAC, plumbing/piping, electrical, fire protection, and ventilation).
* Experience conducting building inspections or facility condition assessments.
* Familiarity with RSMeans or similar industry-standard estimating databases.
* Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS / Maximo).
* Ability to read and interpret blueprints/drawings; familiarity with AutoCAD or Micro Station is…