Cost Estimator; PL

Duties

Arnold AFB, Tullahoma, TN

• Creating an Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) and solid Basis of Estimate (BOE) to justify each cost element.
• Researching and recommending sources of supplies/services for consideration by Purchasing organizations.
• Developing quantifiable, verifiable, and auditable BOEs that are fully compliant with AEDC and RFP requirements.
• Performing detailed analysis of the PWS and SOW and formulating a comprehensive Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) to capture all tasks and activities, both specified and implied.
• Researching and determining required labor and other direct costs—including staffing mix and quantities, labor categories, training, certifications, vehicles, equipment, materials, and all other criteria.
• Thoroughly and precisely documenting rationale and justification for BOE elements to ensure traceability to cost and technical narratives.
• Using Microsoft Excel and/or other programs to fully document BOE rationale and justifications.
• Conducting cost, schedule, contract performance, variance, and risk analysis.
• Assisting in proposal preparation and report generation as required.
• Participating in development of cost controls, procedures, systems, and forecasting techniques to evaluate contract/program status.
• Providing backup documentation for fact‑finding and negotiations.
• Updating previously created estimates for new starts—including updating rates and factors, inflation, and assessing GFE relevance.
• Developing and maintaining a current, relevant, and accessible comprehensive electronic technical library that serves as a repository to address future cost estimating needs.
• Associating technical data, cost, and schedule at relevant milestones in the project life cycle.
• Supporting technical writing by providing task and subtask processes, work procedures, methods of operation, and project schedules.
• Applying engineering and construction standards, methods, practices, and techniques to support the development of accurate cost estimates.
• Being knowledgeable of federal, state, and local codes and regulations related to construction specifications at military installations.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental requirements as outlined in applicable codes, standards, regulations, and/or technical orders.
• Reading and interpreting engineering and architectural drawings and specifications.
• Analyzing engineering drawings, specifications, statements of work, material submittals, shop drawings, and in‑place construction to determine if they clearly meet functional, performance, safety, engineering, and constructability standards.
• Analyzing proposed labor compositions for construction/installation projects to assess their viability, competence, and competitiveness to meet requirements.
• Conducting market research to identify sources of equipment and services, including pricing and delivery information.
• Preparing Requests for Information (RFI) and coordinating responses to potential suppliers.
• Supporting Industry Day events as needed.
• Participating in pre‑proposal source selection processes, including development of scoring criteria and matrices.
• Interfacing with operations personnel to define requirements/specifications for specific equipment and services, assisting in developing requirements, and assessing suitability of potential solutions.
• Reviewing Statement of Work (SOW) documentation for equipment and services to facilitate vendor research and identify potential sources.

• Must be able to develop accurate cost estimates for large complex projects and procurements.
• Must be knowledgeable of government procurement processes and the management of large complex projects.
• Must demonstrate knowledge and application of effective project and financial management tools and techniques to effectively support AF efforts.
• Must possess strong computer skills and the ability to quickly develop, refine, and use online tools and applications.
• Must have exceptional oral and written communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills to interface with various Base organizations.
• Prior experience working at a military facility highly desirable (AEDC experience a plus).

Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Engineering, or related field OR substitution as described below.

0–3 years of experience.

Must be able to acquire and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.

• Highly organized with excellent communication skills.
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams), RS Means, MS Project.
• 5–10% travel may be required.