Job Title:
Cost Estimator
Company: Fortiva
Location: New York City, NY
Created: 2026-05-08
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Cost Estimator - New York, NYCSalary: $90,000 - $130,000Fortiva are partnering with a leading Owner's Representative and construction consultancy to appoint a Cost Estimator to support a diverse portfolio of projects across multiple sectors.This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented professional to play a key role in delivering accurate cost advice and supporting financial decision-making across the full lifecycle of construction projects.Position OverviewThe Cost Estimator will be responsible for delivering independent cost management services across multiple projects of varying scale and complexity. This includes developing estimates, reviewing change orders, supporting feasibility studies, and providing ongoing cost analysis to ensure projects remain aligned with budget and commercial objectives.You will work closely with project teams and clients, providing insight, identifying risks, and highlighting opportunities to enhance value and improve project outcomes.Key ResponsibilitiesPrepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimatesDevelop and maintain cost plans and budgeting strategiesReview and assess change orders, variations, and contractor bidsConduct quantity take-offs from drawings and specificationsSupport value engineering, life cycle costing, and sustainability analysisAnalyze labor, material, and time requirements to produce accurate estimatesIdentify cost risks and provide recommendations to mitigate impactProduce cost reports, benchmarking data, and financial summariesMaintain and update cost databases and historical cost informationCollaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignmentPresent findings and cost advice clearly to clients and project teamsCandidate ProfileWe are seeking a commercially aware and technically capable professional with a strong foundation in construction estimating and cost planning.Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or related disciplineExperience in cost estimating, cost planning, and cost control within constructionBackground across commercial, institutional, or industrial sectors, particularly vertical constructionStrong understanding of both early-stage estimating and detailed pricingExperience with procurement processes such as CMGC/GCCM is advantageousProficiency in estimating software, on-screen takeoff tools, and BIM environmentsAbility to interpret technical drawings and specificationsStrong analytical, organizational, and communication skillsProfessional certifications are considered a plus.Why This RoleOpportunity to work across diverse, high-impact construction projectsCollaborative, client-focused consultancy environmentStrong exposure to both preconstruction and live project cost managementClear pathway for professional development and progression