Estimator

With any project it is important to work out the costs in advance to make sure that the budget will cover this. That way the organisation will know what price to quote for the product or service and they can make sure that they will make a profit when the work is completed. This applies to all sectors, services and products but particularly in civil engineering. The estimator will need a good technical knowledge about the product or service and have good financial skills. They need to consider materials, production or construction processes, labour and skills, and how long each part of the process will take.  They will consider financial data, assess risk, gather quotes, and may even need to consider exchange rates for foreign products and projects. They may also monitor the project to ensure it stays in budget and on time. In some companies estimators may look at only one part of the project, i.e. materials. Good maths and IT qualifications are important, as well as project management skills. You could enter this role through an apprenticeship or after a degree. Estimators can earn between £20,000 to £60,000 per year.