Read this free guide below with common Estimator interview questions
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As an estimator, it’s your job to analyze and estimate the cost of a construction project. You’re responsible for identifying all the costs associated with a project and forecasting the budget. In order to successfully do this job you need to have the right skills, experience, and education. Here are some questions and answers that may help you prepare for an estimator interview.
You should have a degree in engineering, architecture, construction management or a related field. You can also have an associate’s degree or a certification in construction estimating. A combination of education and work experience can also suffice.
An estimator is responsible for analyzing data, calculating costs, identifying risks, estimating resources required, preparing bids and proposals, and tracking materials.
You should have technical skills to perform cost estimation, such as understanding of construction methods, materials, labor and equipment, effectively using spreadsheets, and taking off quantities from plans and specifications.
Familiarity with software like PlanSwift, Bluebeam, ProEst, Sage Estimating, and On-Screen Takeoff is ideal for an estimator, and the more proficient you are the better.
A strong understanding of construction drawings and specifications is crucial for an estimator. You should have experience in reading plans, specifications, and interpreting construction drawings to accurately estimate project costs.
You should have experience in identifying risks and methods to manage them. Explain how you calculate contingencies, allowances, and account for project risks to ensure the project stays on budget.
You should have experience in handling change requests and scope changes. Explain your process for generating a new estimate and the steps you take to balance the budget.
Measuring and tracking costs helps ensure that the project doesn't go over budget. Explain how you track the budget, report project costs and identify variances.
As an estimator, you have to deal with deadlines and pressure from clients. Explain your process for prioritizing tasks and handling high-pressure situations.
Explain your approach to problem-solving and dispute resolution. A successful estimator knows how to deal with difficult situations while maintaining a professional demeanor.
Explain your process for generating estimates and bids. A successful estimator takes the time to review plans and specifications, performs quantity take-offs thoroughly, obtains accurate pricing and includes enough contingency to cover potential risks.
You should have experience working with subcontractors and suppliers. Explain how you gather pricing quotes and maintain communication throughout the bidding process.
As an estimator, you have to manage many deliverables and deadlines on multiple projects. Explain your process for managing deliverables and deadlines and keeping project managers informed of the status of their projects.
Experience on similar projects can give an edge over other candidates. Explain how similar projects you’ve handled can be applied to the project in question.
Project communication is important. Explain the types of reports you provide to the project team and how often. Provide examples of reports and explain how they help them to maintain status and progress information on the project.
Preparing for an estimator interview can be daunting, but if you review these questions and prepare your answers in advance, you'll be ready to show the interviewer that you're the best candidate for the job.
If you’ve landed an interview for a job as an estimator, congratulations! You’ve already impressed the hiring manager with your skills and resume. Now it’s important to prepare for the interview to ensure that you make a great impression and secure the job. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your estimator interview.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your estimator interview and can approach the experience with confidence. Good luck!
Employers want to hire individuals who are excited about the role and the company. Show your enthusiasm by expressing your interest and asking engaging questions.
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