Estimation Engineer in Missouri Career Overview
As an Estimation Engineer, you play a vital role in the planning and execution of projects across various industries, particularly in construction, engineering, and manufacturing. Your work involves analyzing project specifications and requirements to develop accurate estimates that guide project budgets and timelines.
Key aspects of the Estimation Engineer role include:
Cost Estimation: You calculate the anticipated costs of materials, labor, and equipment needed for projects. This requires a deep understanding of the market, materials, and various project phases.
Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and factors that could affect project costs is essential. You evaluate uncertainties and provide solutions to mitigate financial setbacks.
Collaboration: You often work with project managers, architects, and contractors. Effective communication and collaboration ensure that all stakeholders align with the cost and timeline expectations.
Technical Analysis: Preparing detailed reports and analyses requires proficiency in software tools and methodologies that support your estimations.
Decision Support: Your estimates aid in making informed decisions that influence project feasibility and resource allocation.
The work of Estimation Engineers is central to the successful completion of projects. By ensuring that cost estimates are accurate, you help organizations maintain financial control and operational efficiency while striving to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Estimation Engineer Salary in Missouri
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Estimation Engineer in Missouri
To become an Estimation Engineer, you will need to attain a suitable educational background in relevant engineering fields. The following degree programs are commonly pursued:
Engineering Science: This program provides fundamental knowledge in various engineering principles and practices, along with a strong mathematical foundation necessary for accurate estimations.
Civil Engineering: A degree in civil engineering will equip you with specialized skills in infrastructure, construction materials, and project management, all vital for estimating costs and resources in civil projects.
Industrial Engineering: This program focuses on optimizing complex processes and systems, emphasizing efficiency and productivity. The analytical skills developed here are essential for accurate cost estimation and analysis.
Manufacturing Engineering: A degree in manufacturing engineering emphasizes the processes involved in manufacturing products, including techniques for cost estimation in a production environment.
Mechanical Engineering: Through this program, you will gain knowledge in mechanics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, which provides a robust foundation for estimating costs in various engineering projects.
In addition to obtaining a degree in one of these areas, pursuing internships or co-op positions in related fields can enhance your practical experience and understanding of estimation processes.
Best Schools to become a Estimation Engineer in Missouri 2024
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Purdue University-Main Campus
Texas A & M University-College Station
University of Central Florida
University of California-Berkeley
University of Florida
- Prepare cost estimates for product manufacturing, construction projects, or services to aid management in bidding on or determining price of product or service.
- May specialize according to particular service performed or type of product manufactured.
Estimation Engineer Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri
Analytical Skills: You need to assess complex data and identify trends or anomalies. Your ability to analyze costs, materials, and project timelines is essential for providing accurate estimates.
Attention to Detail: Precision is paramount in estimation. You should have the ability to spot inconsistencies or errors in project specifications and costing data to ensure all estimates are reliable.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with estimation software and construction management tools is necessary. You should be comfortable using applications like Microsoft Excel, AutoCAD, or specialized quantity takeoff software.
Mathematical Skills: Strong mathematical abilities are essential for calculating quantities and costs. You should be proficient in formulas and techniques used in budgeting, costing, and resource allocation.
Project Management: Understanding project lifecycles and management principles will help you align your estimates with overall project goals and schedules. You should be capable of coordinating with various stakeholders.
Communication Skills: You must convey complex information clearly to clients, engineers, and management. Both written and verbal communication are important for discussing project requirements and presenting estimates.
Problem-Solving Skills: Challenges and unexpected issues often arise in projects. You should have the ability to develop alternative solutions and adjust estimates accordingly.
Team Collaboration: Working well with architects, construction teams, and other professionals is crucial. Your collaborative skills will help ensure that all estimates meet project expectations and requirements.
Industry Knowledge: Staying updated on industry trends, materials, and pricing is vital. You should have a solid understanding of construction methods and regulations that affect cost estimation.
Time Management: You need to prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines. Your ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously will support efficient project workflows.
Job Duties for Estimation Engineers
Analyze blueprints and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
Collect historical cost data to estimate costs for current or future products.
Confer with engineers, architects, owners, contractors, and subcontractors on changes and adjustments to cost estimates.
Financial analysis software
- CPR Visual Estimator
- Primavera Cost Management
Project management software
- Microsoft Project
- Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Word processing software
- Microsoft OneNote
- Microsoft Word
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Using math to solve problems
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Estimation Engineer in Missouri
The job market for Estimation Engineers in Missouri is influenced by several factors, including industry demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots.
Current Demand:
- There is a steady demand for Estimation Engineers in various industries, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. With ongoing projects in both the public and private sectors, companies are in need of professionals who can accurately assess project costs and requirements.
Growth Potential:
- The field of estimation engineering is expected to grow as businesses continue to seek experienced professionals who can optimize project budgets and improve overall efficiency. Trends in technology, such as the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and advanced software tools, are further increasing the demand for skilled estimators.
- As infrastructure investments rise in Missouri—partially driven by federal and state funding—there will be more opportunities for Estimation Engineers involved in large-scale projects.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Major cities in Missouri, such as St. Louis and Kansas City, are the primary hotspots for Estimation Engineers due to their concentration of construction, manufacturing, and engineering firms.
- The expansion of suburban areas and surrounding regions, especially in offices and commercial developments, is also creating opportunities for estimators who can work on local projects.
- Furthermore, areas with significant transportation projects, such as roadways and bridges, are increasingly in demand for Estimation Engineers to contribute to accurate project assessments.
With a favorable job market and ample opportunities for growth, pursuing a career as an Estimation Engineer in Missouri can be a rewarding choice.
Top Related Careers to Estimation Engineer 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Estimation Engineer in Missouri
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
This organization provides a wealth of resources for engineering professionals, including standards, best practices, and networking opportunities.
Website: asce.orgConstruction Specifications Institute (CSI)
CSI focuses on improving construction documents through education and resources tailored for architects and construction professionals, including estimators.
Website: csinet.orgNational Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)
NIBS offers guidelines and research focused on building safety, efficiency, and value engineering, which are essential for estimation engineering.
Website: nibs.orgAssociation for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE)
AACE provides certification programs, industry standards, and tools for cost estimators and project controls professionals.
Website: aacei.orgThe Project Management Institute (PMI)
While centered on project management, PMI offers valuable resources on cost estimation and budgeting as part of its broader project management framework.
Website: pmi.orgBIMForum
This organization works to advance Building Information Modeling (BIM) practices, which can significantly benefit estimation processes in modern engineering.
Website: bimforum.orgMissouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT)
MoDOT provides resources relevant to construction estimation within public works and transportation projects in Missouri.
Website: modot.orgLocal Colleges and Universities
Institutions such as the University of Missouri and Missouri University of Science and Technology offer specialized courses and resources in civil engineering and construction management. You can visit their respective websites for more information about programs and resources.- University of Missouri: missouri.edu
- Missouri University of Science and Technology: mst.edu
Cost Engineering, AACE's Journal
This journal publishes research and articles specifically on cost estimation methodologies and practices relevant to estimation engineers.
Website: aacei.orgLinkedIn Groups
Joining groups such as "Estimating Engineers" or "Construction Cost Estimators" on LinkedIn can provide networking opportunities and discussions with industry professionals.
Website: linkedin.com
Consider exploring these resources to enhance your knowledge and skills as an Estimation Engineer, and stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Estimation Engineer in Missouri
What is the primary role of an Estimation Engineer?
An Estimation Engineer is responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for construction or manufacturing projects. This includes analyzing project specifications, materials, labor, and overhead costs to create accurate financial proposals.What educational background is required to become an Estimation Engineer?
Typically, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is required. Some employers may also consider candidates with relevant experience or certifications, such as a Certified Estimating Professional (CEP).What skills are essential for an Estimation Engineer?
Key skills include strong analytical abilities, proficiency in estimating software, attention to detail, effective communication skills, and a solid understanding of construction processes, materials, and cost-control practices.What types of industries employ Estimation Engineers?
Estimation Engineers are primarily employed in the construction industry, but they can also work in manufacturing, civil engineering projects, and infrastructure development.What tools and software do Estimation Engineers commonly use?
Commonly used tools include spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel, estimating software such as Sage Estimating, Bluebeam, and specialized construction management platforms.What is the salary range for Estimation Engineers in Missouri?
Salaries for Estimation Engineers in Missouri can range from approximately $60,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience, industry, and the complexity of projects.What career advancement opportunities exist for Estimation Engineers?
With experience, Estimation Engineers can progress to senior estimation roles, project management positions, or even executive roles within companies. Additional certifications and professional development can further enhance career prospects.How does geographic location impact job prospects for Estimation Engineers in Missouri?
Job prospects can vary across different regions of Missouri, with urban areas like St. Louis and Kansas City generally offering more opportunities due to higher construction activity. Networking and industry connections can also play a significant role in securing positions.Is certification necessary for Estimation Engineers?
While not always required, obtaining certification, such as the Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) designation, can enhance your credibility and job prospects, particularly for advanced positions.What are the typical working conditions for Estimation Engineers?
Estimation Engineers usually work in office settings, with some site visits to gather information. They may spend significant time on computers and collaborating with project teams, so good time management and organization skills are beneficial.