Estimator skills for your resume and career

Customer service is the act of helping and supporting customers in a professional and timely manner. Estimators use customer service by maintaining positive relationships with customers, providing accurate quotes, and keeping them informed throughout the repair process. They also use their product knowledge to exceed sales goals and ensure customer satisfaction.

Cost estimates are calculations of the likely expenses involved in a project or process. Estimators use cost estimates to break down construction documents, organize quantity take-offs, and prepare estimates for commercial and industrial subcontract work. They also use cost estimates to forecast cycle times and establish prices for product launches, and to prepare quotes for manufacturing parts and assemblies based on customer specifications.

Project management is the process of planning, organizing, and controlling resources to achieve specific goals and objectives. Estimators use project management to plan and coordinate projects from start to finish. They use it to estimate and manage costs, schedule tasks, and oversee the work of contractors and other staff. They also use project management to communicate with other departments, such as sales, distribution, and engineering, and to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

The repair process is the series of steps involved in fixing a damaged vehicle. Estimators play a crucial role in this process. They write estimates for customers, schedule workloads, monitor the repair process, and create supplements when needed. They also communicate with customers about the progress of the repair and with insurance adjusters when necessary. They ensure that the repair is done correctly and that the customer is informed throughout the process.

Work ethic is the attitude and effort one puts into their job. Estimators use work ethic by consistently delivering high-quality work. They demonstrate their strong work ethic by taking the initiative to complete tasks efficiently and accurately. They also strive to learn and improve in their role, which earns them recognition and promotions. For example, one estimator was recognized for their work ethic and accuracy in handling claims, resulting in reduced costs.

Quantity take-offs are calculations of materials needed for a project. Estimators use quantity take-offs to prepare accurate estimates and prices for projects. They review engineering drawings, perform digital take-offs, and interpret architectural plans to determine the required materials. This information is then used to create detailed estimates and schedules for the project.

General contractors are responsible for overseeing and managing a construction project. Estimators use general contractors by developing relationships with them, collaborating during the bid process, and negotiating or selling materials quoted. They also communicate with general contractors on a daily basis, participate in scope interviews, and help them network with subcontractors. For instance, an estimator might review plans and specifications, estimate material volumes, and submit bids to general contractors. They might also work up budget estimates for general contractors, engineering, development, and construction management firms.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Estimators use HVAC by developing material and labor estimates for HVAC projects, performing estimation services for residential and commercial customers, and translating company needs into specifications for purchasing and installing HVAC equipment and materials. They also submit bid requests to vendors for purchasing equipment required for projects and write up costs for HVAC equipment to be installed in homes.

Plumbing is a system of pipes and fixtures installed in a building for the distribution and use of water and for the disposal of waterborne wastes. Estimators use plumbing by providing cost proposals for large mechanical, plumbing, and electrical installations. They also estimate costs for commercial plumbing and residential general construction remodeling projects. This involves coordinating with leadership and technical teams to prepare mechanical and plumbing estimates. They also use plumbing to prepare quotes for plumbing work, utility work, and storm drain and sanitary sewer installation.

Math is the process of using numbers, quantities, and shapes to solve problems and understand the world around us. Estimators use math to identify and correct errors in their calculations, perform basic calculations like addition and subtraction, and communicate their findings effectively. They also use math skills to quickly and accurately type out their results.

CCC, or Collision Center Computing, is an estimating software used in the automotive industry. Estimators use CCC to generate estimates, confirm customer payments, and write collision estimates for customers and insurers. They also use it to input supplement information, assess repair costs, and create a comprehensive repair estimate. For example, an estimator might use CCC to analyze vehicle damage, create an estimate, and then order the necessary parts.

CAD, or computer-aided design, is a software that helps create and modify designs. Estimators use CAD to review and analyze blueprints, layout designs, and estimate material costs. They also use it to create and edit tooling layouts, and to provide suppliers or customers with assistance and instruction on using the software. For instance, an estimator might use CAD to design a kitchen layout and then quote the cost of the project.

Value engineering is the practice of improving the overall value of a product or service. Estimators use value engineering to identify cost-effective alternatives and save time. They review construction drawings and engineering specifications for cost-effectiveness and suggest value engineering alternatives. They also perform estimates and value engineering for precision metal projects and review project quotes to detect oversights or improve cost estimation.