Senior Cost Engineer

Job Summary / OverviewThe Cost Engineer / Estimator is responsible for developing, analyzing, and maintaining project cost estimates and budgets across EPC projects. This role supports project planning, bidding, and execution by providing accurate cost forecasting, benchmarking, and financial analysis.The Cost Engineer / Estimator works closely with engineering, procurement, construction, and project controls teams to ensure cost accuracy from early-stage estimates through project execution, supporting informed decision-making and financial performance.Essential Job FunctionsReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Develop conceptual, FEED, and detailed cost estimates for EPC projects. Prepare quantity take-offs and cost breakdown structures (CBS). Analyze drawings, specifications, and project scope to determine cost requirements. Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates. Support bid preparation and proposal development. Develop and maintain project budgets and cost forecasts. Track actual project costs against budget and forecast variances. Perform cost analysis and identify trends, risks, and cost-saving opportunities. Support change management and evaluate cost impacts of scope changes. Assist in development of cost reports and project financial summaries. Coordinate with scheduling and project controls teams to align cost and schedule. Support earned value management (EVM) and progress measurement. Assist in development of project cash flow forecasts. Ensure consistency between cost estimates, budgets, and project execution plans. Maintain historical cost data and benchmarking databases. Analyze cost data to improve estimating accuracy and forecasting reliability. Support development of cost models and estimating tools. Provide input into company estimating standards and procedures. Assist with solicitation and evaluation of vendor and subcontractor bids. Review pricing proposals and ensure alignment with project scope. Support procurement team with cost analysis and negotiations as needed. Prepare and maintain detailed estimate documentation and assumptions. Develop cost reports, dashboards, and executive summaries. Ensure proper documentation of estimate basis, inclusions, and exclusions. Support internal and external reporting requirements. Identify cost risks and uncertainties in project estimates. Support development of contingency and risk allowances. Participate in risk assessments and project reviews. Work closely with engineering, procurement, construction, and finance teams. Participate in project meetings and provide cost-related input. Support decision-making through financial analysis and scenario modeling. QualificationsLicenses, Certifications, and/or RegistrationsCertified Cost Professional (CCP) or similar certification preferred but not required. AACE International membership is a plus.Education, Experience, and/or TrainingBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field. Minimum 5–10 years of experience in cost engineering, estimating, or project controls. Experience in EPC, energy, chemical, or industrial projects preferred. Experience with both estimating and cost control functions strongly preferred.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesStrong understanding of EPC project cost structures and estimating methodologies. Experience with cost estimating tools and software. Knowledge of labor productivity, unit rates, and cost drivers in industrial projects. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications. Analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Communication proficiency (technical and financial). Organizational and time management skills. Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously. Critical thinking and decision-making ability. High level of integrity and professionalism.Special RequirementsTools / EquipmentComputerSoftwareProficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel advanced skills required). Experience with estimating and cost control software (e.g., Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, Cleopatra, EcoSys, or similar) preferred. Familiarity with Primavera P6 or similar scheduling tools is a plus. Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools preferred.PhysicalAbility to lift 20 lbs. occasionally.Ability to sit for prolonged amounts of time required.Ability to effectively communicate through various means required.Environmental Majority of work is performed within an office environment.May Require passing by industrial equipment on way to office.Noise levels are typically moderate.Work ScheduleRegular 40-hour work week, normal duty hours as assigned.May work longer hours to meet deadlines as necessary.TravelLess than 25% of the time.