What Skills Should Construction Estimators Have?
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Learn the Skills You Need to Become a Construction Estimator
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AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design and drafting software developed by Autodesk. AutoCAD is used to create 2D drawings and 3D models.
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Construction Estimating
Construction estimating is the process of forecasting the costs of materials, labor, and equipment required for a building project. It helps contractors and project managers develop accurate budgets and competitive bids.
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Construction
Construction is the process of designing, planning, and building structures such as homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure. It involves various disciplines, including engineering, architecture, and project management.
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Blueprint Reading
Blueprint reading is the skill of interpreting technical drawings and plans used in construction, engineering, and manufacturing. It involves understanding symbols, scales, and annotations to accurately visualize and execute a project.
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CAD
Computer-aided design (CAD) is a technology used to create, modify, and optimize precise 2D and 3D designs. CAD software is widely used in engineering, architecture, and product design to streamline the drafting and modeling process.
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BIM
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital process that enables the creation and management of detailed 3D models for architecture, engineering, and construction projects.
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Revit
Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developed by Autodesk, designed for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. It enables collaborative, data-rich 3D modeling, allowing users to plan, design, and manage building projects.
Construction Estimator Salaries
A Construction Estimator in the United States makes, on average, $81,048 annually, according to Indeed.com.
Salaries for Construction Estimators vary by region within the the United States. Listed below are some Construction Estimator salaries for specific areas with the United States compared with the average national salary:
- U.S. Average $81K source n/a
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Alexandria, VA
$137K
source
+69.96%
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New York City
$119K
source
+47.16%
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Los Angeles, CA
$101K
source
+25.07%
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Washington, D.C.
$94K
source
+17.14%
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Orange County, CA
$94K
source
+16.83%
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Dallas, TX
$91K
source
+13.34%
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Chicago, IL
$90K
source
+12.26%
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Fairfax, VA
$82K
source
+1.91%
- U.S. Average $81K source n/a
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Miami, FL
$80K
source
-0.47%
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Houston, TX
$80K
source
-0.94%
Additional Construction Estimator Resources
- Construction Estimator Job Description
- What Software Do Construction Estimators Use?
- How to Become a Construction Estimator Without a Degree in 2025
- How to Become a Freelance Construction Estimator in 2025
- What Classes to Take to Become a Construction Estimator
- How to Become a Construction Estimator At Home
Related Careers
Construction Estimators analyze costs, materials, and labor needs for building projects, collaborating with Construction Project Managers and BIM Managers to ensure financial accuracy. Many move into CAD Manager roles to refine project documentation, while others specialize in digital modeling as BIM Managers. With experience in budgeting and logistics, Estimators can transition into Construction Project Manager positions, overseeing entire project lifecycles. Those with technical expertise may explore roles in building analytics and cost optimization for large-scale developments.
Salary Comparison to Construction Estimator
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Construction Project Manager
$94K
+16.42%
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CAD Manager
$91K
+13.37%
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BIM Manager
$83K
+2.99%
- Construction Estimator $81K n/a
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Construction Project Manager
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$94K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$101K / year
Construction Project Managers oversee every stage of the building process and are responsible for keeping construction projects on budget and within the scope of the plan. They are responsible for: hiring and managing subcontractors, planning, budgeting, and remaining compliant with regional laws.
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BIM Manager
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$83K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$112K / year
BIM Managers oversee complex, multi-stage drafting projects undertaken for building and construction work.
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CAD Manager
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$91K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$90K / year
CAD Managers oversee complex, multi-stage drafting projects undertaken for design, development and construction projects.