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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Showing 5 of 22+ Construction Cost Estimator jobs
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Works closely with project engineers and program management to develop a Bill of Material (BOM) structure by WBS for all FAR15 proposal efforts.
- Develops hardware material and labor estimates identified on the Bill of Materials (BOM) using the company developed Cost Estimating System (CES) in support of proposal and contract activities.
- Ensures cost estimates are developed in accordance with the request for proposal (RFP) specifications, meet overall corporate policies and objectives.
- Conducts BOM review meetings with Program Manager, Engineering, and Manufacturing for confirmation of hardware structure and approval of manufacturing touch labor hours.
- Prepares Consolidated Bill of Material (CBOM) for soliciting quotes from Procurement.
- Develops and maintains BOM EXCEL spreadsheets.
- Prepares reports to Pricing, Procurement, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality Assurance using EXCEL and CES.
- Performs or assists with pre-award, post-award and fact finding audits.
- Basic understanding of FAR regulations relating to the BOM.
- Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
- Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree and three or more years of experience in finance, accounting, or business administration in a manufacturing environment. Equivalent experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
- Must have a general knowledge and competence in the concepts, principles, and standard practices for cost and pricing within government contracting.
- Must have experience negotiating and working in government contracting environment and be able to analyze and solve a variety of moderately complex costing problems.
- Must have good interpersonal skills and communication skills, both verbal and written and be computer literate with knowledge of computer applications relevant to the position, including spreadsheet applications.
- Excellent Excel and other M/S Office PC skills.
- Ability to work independently or in a team environment is essential.
- Must be able to work extended hours when required.
Job Category
Contracts/Sub Contracts/Purchasing
Experience Level
Mid-Level (3-7 years)
Workstyle
Onsite
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time Salary
Pay Range Low
59,000
Pay Range High
94,625
Travel Percentage Required
0% - 25%
Relocation Assistance Provided?
No
US Citizenship Required?
Yes
Clearance Required?
No
Search Jobs at | General Atomics and Affiliated Companies
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Works closely with project engineers and program management to develop a Bill of Material (BOM) structure by WBS for all FAR15 proposal efforts.
- Develops hardware material and labor estimates identified on the Bill of Materials (BOM) using the company developed Cost Estimating System (CES) in support of proposal and contract activities.
- Ensures cost estimates are developed in accordance with the request for proposal (RFP) specifications, meet overall corporate policies and objectives.
- Conducts BOM review meetings with Program Manager, Engineering, and Manufacturing for confirmation of hardware structure and approval of manufacturing touch labor hours.
- Prepares Consolidated Bill of Material (CBOM) for soliciting quotes from Procurement.
- Develops and maintains BOM EXCEL spreadsheets.
- Prepares reports to Pricing, Procurement, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality Assurance using EXCEL and CES.
- Performs or assists with pre-award, post-award and fact finding audits.
- Basic understanding of FAR regulations relating to the BOM.
- Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
- Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree and three or more years of experience in finance, accounting, or business administration in a manufacturing environment. Equivalent experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
- Must have a general knowledge and competence in the concepts, principles, and standard practices for cost and pricing within government contracting.
- Must have experience negotiating and working in government contracting environment and be able to analyze and solve a variety of moderately complex costing problems.
- Must have good interpersonal skills and communication skills, both verbal and written and be computer literate with knowledge of computer applications relevant to the position, including spreadsheet applications.
- Excellent Excel and other M/S Office PC skills.
- Ability to work independently or in a team environment is essential.
- Must be able to work extended hours when required.
Job Category
Contracts/Sub Contracts/Purchasing
Experience Level
Mid-Level (3-7 years)
Workstyle
Onsite
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time Salary
Pay Range Low
59,000
Pay Range High
94,625
Travel Percentage Required
0% - 25%
Relocation Assistance Provided?
No
US Citizenship Required?
Yes
Clearance Required?
No
Search Jobs at | General Atomics and Affiliated Companies
See All 22 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, General Atomics, and OCMI, Inc. (O'Connor Construction Management), per current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 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 Diego, 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 38% of construction cost estimator openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of October 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 22 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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