How to become a Construction Estimator: Career Guide, Courses, After 12th, Jobs, Scope, Salary

Types of Construction Estimators 

Construction estimation depends on a number of factors like the accuracy of available information, understanding categories of cost estimates, resources, etc. Cost estimation of different construction projects are of various categories and construction estimators are categorized according to these divisions. Some of these cost estimation categories are given below:

• Preliminary Cost Estimate: This is an abstract or rough calculation of cost or budget estimate usually done in the initial stages of a construction project. Estimates of items like cost of land, construction supplies, cost of roads, cost of electric and water supply, etc. are done in this process usually with reference to cost of similar types of projects. This is a major stage for a construction estimator in a project since this decides the financial position, budgeting, and administering the project by the competent sanctioning authority.
• Plinth Area Cost Estimate: This is done by estimating construction costs based on the plinth area rate of the construction site. The calculation is done by multiplying the plinth area of a building with the plinth area rate. This is done for multi-storeyed buildings, estimated separately for each storey, and does not apply to open spaces or courtyards.
• Cube Rate Cost Estimate: This is a comparatively more accurate estimation method than the plinth area method. It is calculated by multiplying the plinth area with the height of the building. The rate is measured based on costs of similar buildings in the locality.
• Approximate Quantity Cost Estimate: The calculation for this method involves multiplying the total wall length of the construction project with the rate per running meter. This gives the cost of the structure. The rate per running meter is measured separately for superstructure and foundation.
• Detailed Cost Estimate: This method is used when the competent authority approves the preliminary cost estimates of a construction project. This is a very accurate and finalizing step that decides rates and costs of each item of work separately. Detailed estimate includes works like reporting, detailed specifications, drawing plans, designing, calculations, etc.
• Revised Cost Estimate: This step is conducted when there is a sudden surge in the cost of materials, items, labour, etc. of 5% or more from the original sanctioned estimate. The reason for revision must be mentioned.
• Supplementary Cost Estimate: This is done for a detailed cost estimate for additional works required during the process of construction. The estimate sheet must contain the originally sanctioned estimate as well as the total work cost including the supplementary cost of work during the process.

• Annual Repair Cost Estimate: Also known as annual maintenance estimate, this is prepared to estimate the maintenance costs of a building to keep it in a safe condition. Factors of maintenance include painting, whitewashing, repairs, etc. that are needed from time to time.

How to Become a Construction Estimator in India?

A good construction estimator in India requires the correct background in education and experience. For this, aspiring estimators should start off with proper planning right from the school level and choose the correct subjects. Some preparation guides are mentioned in the following points.

School Level Preparation

Subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Computer Applications, Economics, Management Studies, etc. should be focused on during school level preparation. These subjects prepare aspiring estimators with the correct base for the skills required in their professional field.

How to Become a Construction Estimator after 12th?

After completing 12th standard education, students can go for higher education to become construction estimators. To get a good job or get into a successful business, students can do undergraduate and postgraduate work in the domain of construction.

Undergraduate Preparation 

A construction estimator requires a Bachelor's degree in any subject, but it is highly recommended that they choose subjects that shall sharpen their financial and analytical skills. Preferred subjects are construction management, engineering, etc. Many undergraduate programs also offer business electives that students should opt for.

Postgraduate Preparation 

Construction management courses are offered by many institutes in this field. However, post graduation is an optional step for aspiring construction estimators. This stage is mainly required for gaining practical knowledge and field experience. Students can get involved in internships and apprenticeships along with course studies to make optimum use of the two to three years of post graduation. There are also several types of certifications offered which are very helpful since they impress the employers and showcase the skills of the applicants.

How to Become a Construction Estimator Abroad?

The job of a construction estimator is quite flourishing abroad. Many aspiring estimators move abroad to complete higher studies in the field and to settle for good job opportunities in construction estimation.

USA 

• Most construction estimators study business, construction management, or civil engineering.
• 55% hold a Bachelor’s degree and 16% hold an associate degree among construction estimators.

• Certifications are important since they help with promotions and salary raises for the company. Some popular certifications are OSHA Safety Certificate, Certified Construction Manager, Certified Estimating Professional, etc.

Top Colleges 

UK 

• Although there are no formal qualifications required to become a construction estimator, it is good to have educational qualifications, certification, and apprenticeships in the field for professional work.
• In universities, students can complete a Higher National Diploma (HND) or an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject like construction, civil engineering, etc. 1-3 A levels or equivalent are required for HND or an undergraduate degree.
• In college, having 9 to 4 GCSE grades or equivalent in Science, IT, English, Technology and Mathematics is very useful for aspiring estimators.
• Apprenticeships are very beneficial for future estimators. They can apply for an estimating apprenticeship at a building firm, and then work towards an NVQ in Project Controls or Construction Contracting Operations of Levels 3 and 4. They can also opt for Diploma and Certificate in Site Management level 4.

Top Colleges 

Canada 

• The job will require compulsory completion of secondary school.
• The candidate must either have a three-year degree in civil or construction engineering, or several years of experience in the construction trade like plumbing, electrical, etc. as a qualified tradesperson.

• A Certification issued by the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors is usually required.

Top Colleges 

Australia 

• Aspiring estimators can complete a Certificate IV in Building or Construction estimation. They can also get a Diploma of Building Construction CPC50210.
• Apply for a “White Card” through a registered Training Organisation (RTO). Anybody who works on a construction site in Australia must compulsorily undertake construction induction training. The trainer has to be provided with 100 points by the candidate and paid the fee set by the respective RTO.

• A building estimator’s job is very flexible. They can also consider progressing in many ways such as moving into consultancy or construction management roles.

Benefits of Career as Construction Estimator 

• Simple and Flexible Work- Estimation makes the entire process of construction a lot less tedious. With proper skills, the job of a construction estimator is quite simple and allows error free procedures for construction projects. It is also flexible since newly developed software systems and easy calculating methods, estimation has become highly demanding and easy to do.
• Teamwork- Construction estimation is mostly a collaborative process, which makes the load of the work a lot less on individual estimators. Also, the software enables teamwork which allows sharing inputs of various people and decreasing workload.
• Travel opportunities- Since construction estimators have to continuously travel from one location to another for various construction projects and sites, the job gives them a lot of travel opportunities.
• Field Experience- The amount of field experience that a construction estimator acquires during his professional life is immense. It proves to be beneficial in several other fields and is highly appreciated for any kind of outdoor job.
• Entrepreneurship Opportunities- Construction estimators can eventually start their own industrial line of work after sufficient experience in the field. The job opens up a person to numerous skills, networks, business strategies, and connections for a start-up business or company.

• Health Benefits- Construction estimators enjoy health benefits like medical, dental, vision, and other benefits through insurance.

Skills Required for Construction Estimator 

To become a good construction estimator many skills are required. Some of the top skills needed for successful future are as mentioned below: