Senior Estimator

Tucson, United States | Posted on 08/17/2026

Our client is looking for a Senior Estimator to develop capital independently and construction cost estimates for mining, mineral processing, and heavy industrial projects across the full project lifecycle—from conceptual/feasibility studies through detailed engineering, procurement, and construction.

Requires strong EPCM capital estimating + hands-on construction estimating experience. Must produce defensible estimates with limited engineering definition and detailed labor/material/equipment/subcontract/indirect costs as design matures. Own assigned estimates while collaborating with engineering, procurement, project controls, construction, and project leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop multidisciplinary estimates for all project phases (conceptual, PEA, PFS, FS, FEED, detailed engineering, definitive, construction budgets, bid evaluations, change orders, forecasts).
• Apply the right methodology (parametric, factored, equipment-based, historical, quantity-based, unit-rate, bottom-up, quotation-based) based on project maturity.
• Cover full scope: site development, earthworks, concrete, structural steel, buildings, process equipment (crushing, grinding, mineral processing), piping, electrical, instrumentation, utilities, temporary facilities, construction equipment/indirects, engineering/EPCM, freight, commissioning, owner’s costs, escalation & contingency.
• Develop/validate quantities from PFDs, P&IDs, drawings, 3D models, MTOs, and vendor data; use historical factors and judgment when details are limited.
• Build detailed construction estimates (labor rates, crew mixes, productivity, equipment, materials, subcontract, indirects) that reflect site-specific conditions (location, weather, congestion, schedule, etc.).
• Solicit/review vendor and subcontractor pricing; normalize bids for accurate comparison.
• Prepare clear, transparent Basis of Estimate documents.
• Benchmark and reconcile estimates; explain cost movements and identify major cost drivers and optimization opportunities.
• Support project teams in kickoffs, design/constructability reviews, risk workshops, value engineering, and client presentations. Challenge unrealistic assumptions.

• 10+ years estimating and/or construction experience on mining, mineral processing, heavy industrial, or comparable capital projects.
• Proven ability to develop independently both early-phase capital estimates and detailed construction estimates.
• Strong knowledge of construction means/methods, craft labor, productivity, equipment, materials, subcontracting, and indirect costs.
• Ability to estimate from incomplete engineering information.
• Strong Excel and estimating software/database skills.
• Clear communicator of methodology, assumptions, risks, and results.