Construction estimator skills

Skills for Construction Estimators

Basic skill

The estimator needs basic innate skills for successful professional development. Of course, these skills are developed with experience, but the estimator must have at least certain innate skills to perform the job.

Anyone entering the estimating profession should have a combination of the core skills listed in Figure 1.

Math skills

Estimation, by its very nature, requires the formulation of numerous mathematical operations and complex calculations.

Mathematical literacy is essential for beginners.

Communication skills

Another necessary skill is the beginner's natural ability to develop good oral and written communication.

The success of the project often hides in the details and their correct evaluation.

In most situations, it is necessary to communicate on a routine basis with

Colleagues who specialize in the type of project.

Equipment and service providers.

The client.

With subcontractors.

Or attendees at business meetings.

Good writing is another key skill that will help you present complex reports clearly and concisely.

Perseverance or persistence 

This trait is a hidden gem, but essential to the Estimator's personality. 

Estimators need to be persistent. 

Perseverance is used, for example, in the painstaking effort to find the best price for an infinite number of materials for a project in a universe of suppliers. 

Perseverance enables the estimator to complete all aspects of the quotation on time, regardless of the effort required.

Honesty and reliability 

Evaluation requires honesty and reliability. 

These qualities are required by

The company's shareholders, who are interested in the economic success and prestige of their company. 

Your own colleagues, who will manage projects on the basis of the valuer's preliminary analysis.