Okay, so we’ve experienced robot wars with the Terminator and been hunted in the jungle by an alien Predator. Now let’s hear it for . . . the Estimator.
This is no ordinary action hero. Also know under the code name cost engineer, the Estimator is both the brains and the brawn on any engineering or construction project, large or small.
Having the brains means that essentially you’re numero uno with all of the important numbers – these are the figures that tot up how much it will cost to provide a client with engineered products or engineering services.
Bringing the brawn means having the experience and wide skill set that gives you the strength and stamina to estimate what equipment will be needed, how much material will be used, and how many man and woman hours will be involved.
It’s a lynchpin role and requires an eye for every last detail when analysing all those different quotes from sub-contractors, assessing risks and helping plan project timescales.
Unlike the Terminator, your mission is not to cause worldwide mayhem across space and time.
Instead, you will need a blend of hard business sense and subtle diplomacy.
After all, it’s your job to get not only the best possible price but put together the most attractive bid in order to win the contract.
To do this you’ll also need excellent communication and project management skills, as well as maths and IT know-how.
Definitely unlike the Predator, you’re not expected to land bang into the middle of the job and get on with things in a do or die scenario.
In fact, you’ll be expected to come already armed with industry knowledge and experience. This need not be from a previous estimator role – you could be currently working as a surveying assistant or technician and looking for a fresh challenge in engineering.
A relevant HND or a degree in a subject such as civil or construction engineering will give you gold stars for your CV and anyone just starting out in their career can consider joining an apprenticeship scheme with an engineering company.
Becoming an estimator is an incredible achievement in itself but it also puts you on a career flight path that could reach a destination as project leader or contracts manager.
For Estimator vacancies and a wide range of Engineering and Technical roles visit s1jobs. Hasta la vista, baby!