Senior Cost Estimator Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Senior Cost Estimators are regularly sponsored for H-1B visa and TN visas, with employers in construction, engineering, and defense contracting among the most active sponsors. Roles typically require a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
Find Senior Cost Estimator JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 888+ Senior Cost Estimator jobs
See all 888+ Senior Cost Estimator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Senior Cost Estimator roles.
Get Access To All JobsCost Estimator – Capital Projects Facilities & Services
Facilities & Services
Job Summary
This position is responsible for forecasting the expenses associated with projects by analyzing various factors such as labor, materials, and time requirements. Responsible for helping determine the financial feasibility of projects and in planning budgets, and work closely with university project managers, and design and construction vendors to gather data and provide accurate cost predictions. Responsible for identifying potential cost-saving opportunities, to support the timely and cost-efficient delivery of projects.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Analyze construction documents, project manuals, and other contract documents and prepare detailed time, cost, materials, and labor estimates for capital projects in multiple phases of project delivery (Planning, Design, Bid & Award).
- Collaborate with project teams to refine and reconcile in-house cost estimates with those provided by design and construction vendors.
- Collect, analyze, and document historical data and set up cost monitoring systems for project costs.
- Estimate not to exceed and lump sum change orders during construction.
- Recommend and estimate cost-reduction strategies for capital projects.
- Monitor design and construction industry forecasts and annual reports, and local market for escalation and labor availability.
- Generate quarterly and financial year reports for capital projects bidding.
- Estimate and recommend bid alternates for capital project bidding.
- Calculate and recommend unit costs and allowances for capital project bidding.
- Estimate contractor proposals for work to be performed within a contract allowance.
- Other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a closely related field.
- Two (2) years (24 months) of commercial construction management experience.
- Demonstrated experience in cost estimation, project budgeting, and/or construction cost analysis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Ability to read and interpret plans, blueprints, and specifications.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
- Knowledge of the practical application of construction technology.
- Knowledge in commercial scheduling and estimating software.
- Knowledge of building codes or industry standards.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5012 - Construction Project Manager position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 09/07/2026. This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5002 - Program Coordinator position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The budgeted salary range for this position is $80,000-$100,000. We strive to provide a competitive salary, consider factors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate qualifications, and budget constraints. Final salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on 09/07/2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact klmccray@illinois.edu or call 217-. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037691
Job Category: CIVIL SERVICE
Cost Estimator – Capital Projects Facilities & Services
Facilities & Services
Job Summary
This position is responsible for forecasting the expenses associated with projects by analyzing various factors such as labor, materials, and time requirements. Responsible for helping determine the financial feasibility of projects and in planning budgets, and work closely with university project managers, and design and construction vendors to gather data and provide accurate cost predictions. Responsible for identifying potential cost-saving opportunities, to support the timely and cost-efficient delivery of projects.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Analyze construction documents, project manuals, and other contract documents and prepare detailed time, cost, materials, and labor estimates for capital projects in multiple phases of project delivery (Planning, Design, Bid & Award).
- Collaborate with project teams to refine and reconcile in-house cost estimates with those provided by design and construction vendors.
- Collect, analyze, and document historical data and set up cost monitoring systems for project costs.
- Estimate not to exceed and lump sum change orders during construction.
- Recommend and estimate cost-reduction strategies for capital projects.
- Monitor design and construction industry forecasts and annual reports, and local market for escalation and labor availability.
- Generate quarterly and financial year reports for capital projects bidding.
- Estimate and recommend bid alternates for capital project bidding.
- Calculate and recommend unit costs and allowances for capital project bidding.
- Estimate contractor proposals for work to be performed within a contract allowance.
- Other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a closely related field.
- Two (2) years (24 months) of commercial construction management experience.
- Demonstrated experience in cost estimation, project budgeting, and/or construction cost analysis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Ability to read and interpret plans, blueprints, and specifications.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- Ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
- Knowledge of the practical application of construction technology.
- Knowledge in commercial scheduling and estimating software.
- Knowledge of building codes or industry standards.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5012 - Construction Project Manager position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 09/07/2026. This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5002 - Program Coordinator position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The budgeted salary range for this position is $80,000-$100,000. We strive to provide a competitive salary, consider factors such as available market data, internal equity, candidate qualifications, and budget constraints. Final salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on 09/07/2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact klmccray@illinois.edu or call 217-. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037691
Job Category: CIVIL SERVICE
See all 888+ Senior Cost Estimator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Senior Cost Estimator roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Senior Cost Estimator Jobs
Target employers with active LCA filings
Large engineering and construction firms file Labor Condition Applications publicly. Searching OFLC disclosure data for 'cost estimator' filings shows which employers have actively sponsored this role, giving you a concrete list of companies worth pursuing.
Emphasize your degree-to-role alignment
H-1B specialty occupation approval depends on a direct link between your degree field and the role. A degree in construction management, civil engineering, or quantity surveying strengthens your petition significantly more than a general business or unrelated degree.
Highlight software proficiency in your application
Employers sponsoring cost estimators expect proficiency in tools like Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, or Primavera. Listing specific software in your resume signals the specialized knowledge that supports a specialty occupation argument during the H-1B petition.
Consider TN status if you hold Canadian or Mexican citizenship
Cost estimators with an engineering or quantity surveying background may qualify for TN status, which avoids the H-1B lottery entirely. Confirm your specific job duties and degree align with a qualifying TN profession category before proceeding.
Prepare a detailed duties letter from your employer
USCIS scrutinizes cost estimator petitions more closely when job duties appear generalist. A detailed support letter from your employer describing project complexity, technical methodologies, and required specialized knowledge strengthens the specialty occupation argument considerably.
Browse sponsoring employers on Migrate Mate
Migrate Mate filters job listings by visa sponsorship availability, so you're not guessing which employers will support an application. Searching for senior cost estimator roles there surfaces employers already willing to engage with the sponsorship process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Senior Cost Estimator role qualify as an H-1B specialty occupation?
It can, but it's not automatic. USCIS requires that the role normally requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field. Senior Cost Estimator positions tied to engineering, construction management, or quantity surveying typically qualify. Roles described more broadly, where any degree satisfies the requirement, face higher denial risk. A strong job duties letter and employer support matter considerably here.
Which industries most commonly sponsor Senior Cost Estimators?
Defense contracting, heavy civil construction, oil and gas, and large-scale infrastructure firms are the most consistent sponsors. Companies like Bechtel, Parsons, Jacobs, and Fluor appear regularly in OFLC LCA filings for cost estimator roles. Government contractors often sponsor because the specialized knowledge required for federal project bidding is difficult to replace quickly. You can browse verified sponsoring employers on Migrate Mate.
Does my degree need to be in a specific field for H-1B sponsorship as a Cost Estimator?
Yes. The H-1B visa petition requires your degree to directly relate to the job duties. Construction management, civil or structural engineering, architecture, or quantity surveying are the strongest matches. A general business or unrelated degree creates a specialty occupation problem that an immigration attorney may need to address through a combination of education and progressive work experience.
What are the approval rates for H-1B petitions filed for Cost Estimators?
USCIS doesn't publish approval rates broken down by job title. Anecdotally, cost estimator petitions in construction and engineering contexts have reasonable approval rates when the specialty occupation argument is well-documented. Petitions for roles framed as general project management or procurement, rather than technical estimating requiring a specific degree, receive more Requests for Evidence and higher denial rates.
Can I switch employers on an H-1B as a Senior Cost Estimator?
Yes. H-1B portability allows you to start working for a new employer as soon as they file a new H-1B petition on your behalf, as long as your current status is valid and you've been lawfully employed for at least 180 days since your most recent approval. The new employer needs to file their own I-129 and LCA before your first day. There's no need to wait for USCIS approval to begin work.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Senior Cost Estimator jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.