To become a construction estimator, there is a set of steps that must be followed. A construction estimator is the backbone of the construction industry, from budget planning as per a project's requirements to aligning costs with it. Their role is crucial in any type of project. In simple words, they are responsible for presenting a client with a clear picture of a project's estimated costs. On the other hand, they also control the costs. Note that wherever finances are involved, risks may follow. Hence, a construction estimator is also responsible for detecting risks and relevant risk mitigating strategies.
The construction industry is booming, so the demand for buildings is increasing. So, the market needs professional construction estimators. So if you want to become a Construction Estimator, this is the right time.
What Are The Basic Requirements To Become a Construction Estimator?
There are so many options for working once you have become a construction estimator. But before becoming one, there are some basic steps you need to conquer. These are as follows:
1) You Need to Have a Relevant Degree
First, you have to get a degree in the related field. The usual period for a construction estimating degree is around 4 years. Having a construction-related degree will provide firms and clients with assurance that you have the basic know-how about construction estimating. Getting the required education will also broaden your perspective about construction laws, regulations, and methods. Taking inside courses, such as finance or economics, will also help you to better handle the cost of a project.
While acquiring a degree to become a construction estimator, find opportunities to gain any experience. Get an internship with a recognized estimating firm to learn more about real-life estimating scenarios.
2) Look For A Job
Once you have completed your degree, search for jobs preferably with official construction estimating firms. Often, you can get the job from the same company where you did your internship. When you have acquired a job, you have to work under an experienced estimator. This will be an on-the-job training period for you. In this stage, you will learn about the construction industry and market conditions. Also, you will understand how these two are related and how one affects the other.
3) Obtain The Necessary Certification
Although certifications are not a compulsion for becoming an estimator in construction. But having certificates depicts your knowledge and the level of skill set you have, to deliver accurate Construction Estimating Services. From a client's or an employer's perspective, a certified construction estimator will always be favored as compared to a non-certified one. There are several organizations, and each of them has their criteria for issuing certificates. These are as follows:
● The American Society of Professional Estimators
This institute requires 5 years of experience and completion of a workshop. You have to pass an exam to attain the certification of Professional Cost Estimators.
●The Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering
Candidates who want to become a construction estimator must have 8 years of experience and a bachelor's degree. Also, to acquire the certification of Certified Estimating Professional, you have to pass an exam
●The Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis
The certification from this institute is valid for those candidates who want to become a construction estimator to have 7 years of experience and the required education.
Necessary Skills Required for a Construction Estimator
Here are some essential skills that are a must for a construction estimator:
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You must be able to foresee a project's costs. For this, you possess exceptional analytical and technical skills. These skills will help you navigate a complex project.
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Being able to communicate with investors, contractors, and other experts is a necessity of this role. You have to ensure transparency by communicating with clients to explain how a project is progressing.
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There is no compromise on an estimator's mathematical skills. For accurate Cost Estimating Services, they are paramount. For material takeoff and other calculations, mathematical skills are often required.
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Having only efficient mathematical skills would not be helpful. A candidate must have project management skills. Therefore, obtaining the necessary knowledge to manage projects efficiently is important.
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Managing time is another important skill for a construction estimator. As they are working under tight deadlines
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A construction estimator must have keen attention to detail. As they have to perform complex calculations. So overlooking any detail may result in unavoidable problems
Conclusion
Stepping into the construction industry to become a construction estimator can lead to many opportunities. If you have acquired everything necessary, then it is only a matter of time before you get hired by a well-known organization. This article aims to provide you with detailed guidelines about how long it takes and what necessary certifications and skills you need. Collectively, this will increase the chances of your employment as well.