Cost Engineer​/Estimator - Utilities

Job Title: Cost Engineer/Estimator - Utilities

Company: Accelerated PM

Job Type: Hybrid (4 days on site, 1 day remote)

Job Location: Naperville, IL OR Atlanta, GA

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s (required)

Estimating/Cost Engineering experience: 5+ yrs (required)

Accelerated PM is searching for a skilled and motivated Cost Engineer/Estimator to join our team in the gas utilities sector. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing accurate cost estimates, supporting budget preparation and carrying out cost management duties for gas utility projects. This position requires energy sector experience, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills.

This is a hybrid role requiring 4 days a week on site (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu). There is a choice of two site locations, in Naperville, IL or Atlanta, GA.

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for gas utility projects, including materials, labor, equipment, and overhead.
• Analyze historical data and market trends to enhance accuracy in cost predictions.
• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction teams to gather input for accurate estimates.
• Assist in developing and maintaining project budgets throughout the project lifecycle.
• Monitor cost performance and identify potential overruns or cost‑saving opportunities.
• Maintain a library of cost data, standards, and tools for reference and improvement.
• Ensure all cost estimates comply with industry regulations, company standards, and client requirements.
• Prepare monthly accruals and forecast reports and review with stakeholders and the Finance team.
• Develop and manage project cost reports including the evaluation of committed, actual and forecasted costs against budgets.
• Conduct detailed monthly variance analysis and use findings to drive improvements in future budgeting and forecasting.
• Play a key role in annual planning and budgeting at the portfolio level.
• Work closely with the scheduling team to ensure schedule impacts are reflected accurately in the cost forecast/reports.
• Carry out reviews of invoices/pay applications of select vendors and subcontractors to ensure accuracy and contract compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in cost engineering or estimating, preferably in the energy or gas utilities sector.
• Proficiency in cost estimation software (e.g., Aspen, Win Est, or similar tools).
• Strong understanding of gas utility project components, including pipelines, stations, and infrastructure.
• Experience working with ERP systems, ideally Oracle
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong MS Excel skills + other MS Office products (Access, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook)

• Relevant AACE or PMI certifications
• Salary: $125-135k annually depending on experience & qualifications
• Work location:
  
  Naperville, IL (4 days on site, 1 remote) or Atlanta, GA (4 days on site, 1 remote)