How to become a cost estimator

Is becoming a cost estimator right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do cost estimators do?
Career Satisfaction
Are cost estimators happy with their careers?
Personality
What are cost estimators like?

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How to become a Cost Estimator

Becoming a cost estimator involves a combination of education, relevant experience, and the development of specific skills. Here is a guide to becoming a cost estimator:

  • Bachelor's Degree: Pursue a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as construction management, engineering, business, or a related discipline. Some employers may accept degrees in areas like mathematics or statistics. Consider programs that offer coursework in cost estimation and project management.
  • Gain Relevant Experience: Acquire practical experience through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions. This hands-on experience provides exposure to the industry and helps you develop a better understanding of cost estimation processes.
  • Specialize if Necessary: Depending on your interests and career goals, you may choose to specialize in a particular industry, such as construction, manufacturing, or IT. Specialization can enhance your expertise in the specific types of projects you are interested in estimating.
  • Consider Certification: While not mandatory, obtaining certification can enhance your credibility and marketability. Organizations like the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) offer certifications for cost estimators (see below).
  • Advance Your Education (Optional): Some cost estimators choose to pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master's Degree in Project Management or a related field, to enhance their knowledge and career prospects.
  • Apply for Positions: Start applying for entry-level positions or junior estimator roles. Emphasize your education, relevant experience, and any certifications you have obtained. Tailor your resume to highlight skills in cost estimation, mathematics, and project management.
  • Career Development: As you gain experience, consider taking on more complex projects and advancing to roles with increased responsibility. Continuing education and professional development are key to a successful career as a cost estimator.

Certifications
Certifications can enhance the credibility and marketability of cost estimators by demonstrating their expertise and commitment to professional development. Here are some relevant certifications for cost estimators:

  • Certified Cost Professional (CCP): Offered by the Association for Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEI), the CCP designation is recognized globally and demonstrates proficiency in cost engineering and cost estimating.
  • Certified Construction Estimator (CCE): The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) offers the CCE designation. This certification is designed for construction estimators and covers various aspects of cost estimating in the construction industry.
  • Certification in Construction Estimating (CCE): The Construction Estimating Institute (CEI) provides the CCE certification, emphasizing construction estimating skills and techniques.
  • Certification as a Professional Estimator (CPE): Offered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE), the CPE certification is designed for professionals in the estimating field and covers a broad range of estimating topics.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP): While not specific to cost estimating, the PMP certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is recognized globally and includes project cost management as one of its knowledge areas.
  • Certified Professional Constructor (CPC): The American Institute of Constructors (AIC) offers the CPC certification, which covers various aspects of construction management, including cost estimating.
  • Estimator Certification Program (ECP): The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) provides the ECP program, which includes a certification exam covering estimating principles and practices.