Assistant Construction Estimator

About the Opportunity

Northeastern University’s Planning, Real Estate and Facilities (PREF) division is seeking an Assistant Estimator to join a talented team of project managers, planners, architects, and designers at a dynamic, top tier, urban research university. The mission of PREF is to shape and care for Northeastern University’s physical environment in support of learning and discovery.

Under the direction of the Senior Construction Estimator, the Assistant Estimator will support the efforts of the Capital Project teams in developing cost estimates for research labs, office space, learning environments, residences, and more within the Boston and global network campuses by:

Reviewing Project Documents

Collaborate with project management team, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers to gather necessary information, clarify project requirements, and address any questions or concerns related to cost estimation. Assist in oversight and management of external estimating consultants for project estimating services.

Preparing Project Estimates

Assist in developing and maintaining suitable preliminary project budget estimates on various project types that support the University’s decision-making on project affordability during pre-construction phase. Ensure all project estimates include the costs of division 2 through 16, general conditions, project requirements, fee, insurance, contingencies (design, construction, overtime, PCO's, A&E and soft costs), and any other costs that may affect the project. Maintain square foot benchmarks to test order of magnitude of proposed projects. Make recommendations on alternative methods, materials, or design modifications to optimize project costs while maintaining quality and functionality. Help identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising project integrity. Assist project team in reviewing change orders, value engineering studies, and constructability reviews.

Planning/Construction Schedules

Utilize standard planning/scheduling methodologies and tools to prepare plans and schedules for small and routine projects. Assist project management team collect and analyze information used to plan and schedule construction projects and review contractor construction schedules. Evaluate current procedures and recommend changes to improve the efficiency of planning and scheduling of projects and the reduction of issues due to scheduling errors. Create a baseline schedule for the University's construction projects.

Reporting/Analyzing Project Costs

Aid in the preparation of program level executive summary reports for review by the AVP of Design & Construction. Generate forecasts, variance reports, and other documentation used to monitor and manage projects. Ensure quality data collection techniques are established for reporting. Communicate project financial status to stakeholders via regular reporting.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Suitable candidates will have a bachelor's degree and 2 years of professional experience in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Urban Planning, Space Planning, or another closely related field.

Other Requirements:

• Must be a self-starter with the ability to lead others and work as part of a team.
• Ability to work with a diverse population and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Ability, willingness, and comfort working with people from various backgrounds, cultures, nationalities, linguistic styles, and socio-economic status.
• Capable of managing competing priorities with the ability to switch focus when needed.
• Experience and comfort in working in a fast-paced environment and managing projects with internal and external stakeholders.
• Able to work under pressure, especially when facing deadlines. Accuracy is paramount.
• Adept at clearly presenting information and concisely expressing ideas orally and in writing,
• Proficient with standard computer software packages including Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, and Outlook) in performing work assignments.
• Familiarity to effectively use e-Builder or other construction management software.
• This position requires a criminal background check.
• All University staff members must successfully complete a 90-day probationary period. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

Reviewing Project Documents 25%

Collaborate with project management team, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers to gather necessary information, clarify project requirements, and address any questions or concerns related to cost estimation. Assist in oversight and management of external estimating consultants for project estimating services.

Preparing Project Estimates 25%

Assist in developing and maintaining suitable preliminary project budget estimates on various project types that support the University’s decision-making on project affordability during pre-construction phase. Ensure all project estimates include the costs of division 2 through 16, general conditions, project requirements, fee, insurance, contingencies (design, construction, overtime, PCO's, A&E and soft costs), and any other costs that may affect the project. Maintain square foot benchmarks to test order of magnitude of proposed projects. Make recommendations on alternative methods, materials, or design modifications to optimize project costs while maintaining quality and functionality. Help identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising project integrity. Assist project team in reviewing change orders, value engineering studies, and constructability reviews.

Planning/Construction Schedules 25%

Utilize standard planning/scheduling methodologies and tools to prepare plans and schedules for small and routine projects. Assist project management team collect and analyze information used to plan and schedule construction projects and review contractor construction schedules. Evaluate current procedures and recommend changes to improve the efficiency of planning and scheduling of projects and the reduction of issues due to scheduling errors. Create a baseline schedule for the University's construction projects.

Reporting/Analyzing Project Costs 25%

Aid in the preparation of program level executive summary reports for review by the AVP of Design & Construction. Generate forecasts, variance reports, and other documentation used to monitor and manage projects. Ensure quality data collection techniques are established for reporting. Communicate project financial status to stakeholders via regular reporting.

Position Type

Facilities

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.  

Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff.  Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. 

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other  characteristic protected by applicable law.

To learn more about Northeastern University’s commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity .