Junior Cost Estimator

Job Description

Junior Cost Estimator – Rail & Transit

Compensation & Benefits

• $135,200 – $156,000 annually (Equivalent to $65 – $75/hour, W2)
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees
• 401k retirement plan with company matching contribution
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Company-paid life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) benefits
• Company-paid long-term (LTD) insurance
• Annual tuition assistance allowance for employees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  
  

Position Description Summary

KKCS is seeking a Junior Cost Estimator to support active LA Metro rail and transit projects in Downtown Los Angeles. This hybrid position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting complex infrastructure projects, including those delivered through Design-Build and Alternative Delivery methods. We’re looking for individuals with a strong foundation in cost estimating, enthusiasm for public transportation work, and a desire to grow within a supportive and technically driven team.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in developing detailed construction cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
• Perform quantity take-offs using drawings, specifications, and other supporting documentation.
• Research current unit costs and apply accurate labor, equipment, and material pricing.
• Support senior estimators on scope changes, change order analysis, and cost reconciliations.
• Help develop Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation to accompany project estimates.
• Contribute to the preparation of estimates for projects delivered via Design-Build, CMGC, CMAR, and other Alternative Delivery methods.
• Support internal cost benchmarking and database maintenance.
• Attend project meetings to understand design intent and construction phasing.
• Use estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, Excel, and On-Screen Takeoff.
  
  

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.
  
  

Experience

• 2–5 years of experience in cost estimating for public infrastructure, preferably transit, rail, or transportation projects.
• Familiarity with Design-Build and Alternative Delivery project environments.
• Strong Excel skills and ability to work with cost and quantity data.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and technical documents.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting LA Metro or similar Southern California agency projects.
• Proficiency in HCSS HeavyBid, Sage Estimating, or other cost estimating software.
• Familiarity with On-Screen Takeoff or Bluebeam Revu.
• Exposure to risk-based estimating and cost forecasting approaches.
  
  

KKCS is an equal opportunity employer encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.