Construction Cost Estimator Jobs in California
Construction Cost Estimator jobs in California are concentrated in commercial construction, infrastructure, residential development, and public works, making it one of the most active markets in the country for estimating professionals at every level from entry-level takeoff specialists to senior project estimators. The heaviest hiring is in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, where large firms like Turner Construction, Skanska, and Hensel Phelps maintain deep California footprints. Estimators with expertise in vertical construction, civil infrastructure, and green building projects are especially sought after across the state. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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- | Full-Time
THE WORK:
- You'll perform more complex assignments and lead a team of estimators engaged in the following:
- Preparing pre-design cost estimates based on scope and project type.
- Preparing construction cost estimates from drawings, outlines, and specifications on a variety of project types.
- You'll review contractor and consultant cost proposals.
- You'll negotiate change orders.
- Onsite at client site: The work location for this role is onsite with our clients and partners to enable delivery and cultivate our client relationships.
$166,000 - $182,000 a year
HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
- 10 years or more of estimating experience related to both engineering and construction projects
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management or related field
- Certified estimating professional credential required
BONUS POINTS IF YOU HAVE:
- Knowledge of Prolog and other Project Management Systems is preferred
- Experience managing a team of cost estimators
- Demonstrated experience with complex estimate reconciliations and change order negotiations
- Demonstrated experience in getting independent estimates from vendors/contractors as check estimates against contractor proposal estimated costs and negotiations
- Comprehensive knowledge of construction-related processes, as well as a thorough knowledge of industry practices
- Self-starter attitude with proved results-oriented focus
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Must possess the ability to effectively interact with various departments to maintain open lines of communication
- Comfortable operating in a team-oriented, collaborative work environment
- Produce accurate and timely results while maintaining a customer service attitude
- Must be detail oriented and highly organized
- Demonstrated experience working on multiple projects at the same time
- Experience working with outside agencies i.e., FAA, General Services division, LADBS, LADWP, etc.
Los Angeles, CA
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See All 19 Construction Cost Estimator Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsConstruction Cost Estimator Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Construction Cost Estimator Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring



Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Construction & Real Estate
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in construction cost estimator jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field
- Proficiency in estimating software such as Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, or ProEst
- Experience reading and interpreting construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents
- Familiarity with California Division of the State Architect or public works bidding requirements
- Knowledge of CSI MasterFormat and standard construction cost databases such as RSMeans
- Professional certification such as Certified Professional Estimator or AACE credential preferred
Construction Cost Estimator Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a construction cost estimator in California?
The most common path in California is a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or architecture, followed by entry-level estimating work at a general contractor or specialty subcontractor. California does not require a state-issued license specifically for cost estimators, but many employers prefer candidates working toward or holding a Certified Professional Estimator designation through the American Society of Professional Estimators or a certification from AACE International. Building a portfolio of completed bid packages strengthens early-career applications considerably.
How much do construction cost estimators make in California?
Construction cost estimators in California earn a median of about $85,460 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $51,750 for the lowest 10% to over $150,790 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire construction cost estimators in California?
Companies currently hiring construction cost estimators in California include Turner & Townsend, Turner & Townsend Pty Limited, and Logic, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's large public works pipeline and active commercial development market keep demand steady across both general contractors and specialty subcontractors throughout the state.
Which California cities have the most construction cost estimator jobs?
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Cupertino have the most construction cost estimator openings in California. Los Angeles drives volume through its large commercial and mixed-use development pipeline, San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area generate consistent demand from technology campus and infrastructure projects, and San Diego sees strong activity tied to federal defense construction contracts and residential growth along the coast.
Are there remote construction cost estimator jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most construction roles, since estimating is primarily a desk-based analytical function that does not require a physical site presence. About 36% of construction cost estimator openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting the document-heavy nature of the work. Conceptual estimating, bid preparation, and cost database management are the tasks most commonly performed fully remote.
How can I get hired as a construction cost estimator in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a junior estimator or estimating assistant role at a mid-size California general contractor or specialty subcontractor, where on-the-job training is common. Many graduates also transition in from adjacent roles such as project engineer, field engineer, or construction inspector. Large California contractors like Turner Construction and Hensel Phelps run structured new-graduate programs that include estimating rotations. Completing a Certified Professional Estimator prep course or assembling a takeoff portfolio using publicly available bid sets gives candidates a measurable edge in the application process.
Where can I find and apply to construction cost estimator jobs in California?
You can find and apply to construction cost estimator jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings across the state. Search the roles available, identify the ones that match your experience level and preferred location, and apply directly to the positions that fit.
See All 19 Construction Cost Estimator Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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