What is a building estimator and how to become one

Key steps to become a building estimator

1. Explore building estimator education requirements

   Most common building estimator degrees

   Bachelor's

   55.2 %

   Associate

   29.3 %

   High School Diploma

   8.6 %

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2. Start to develop specific building estimator skills

   Skills	Percentages
   HVAC	25.77%
   Cost Estimates	19.82%
   Bid Packages	18.72%
   Construction Projects	15.10%
   Commercial Buildings	10.01%

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3. Complete relevant building estimator training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New building estimators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a building estimator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real building estimator resumes.

4. Research building estimator duties and responsibilities

   • Manage the estimating of a commercial & industrial plumbing and mechanical contracting business.
   • Obtain measurements, photos and documentation to process remotely Xactimate estimates to submit for insurance and customer approval.
   • Procure LEED specifications on various products to ensure compliance with customer preferences including reclaim material.

5. Apply for building estimator jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a building estimator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams