ABC - Estimating

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ESTIMATING

Blueprint Reading for Estimators

Be able to read and interpret blue prints from all 16 divisions of the construction project specifications
Visualize the construction plan to put work in place from the blue print

Take-offs for Estimators

Be thoroughly familiar with all details of the estimating process
Understand and be able to account for factors outside company control which will impact the final bid package
Be able to utilize the components of the estimating process to the benefit of the company financially
Prepare successful estimates based on the types of estimates required (cost plus, design build, etc)

Contract Law for Estimators

Be thoroughly familiar with construction laws and codes as they apply to project completion
Understand and be able to address the legal aspects of formal bid finalization including the options the company has to changing circumstance in the bid request
Identify variances in bid packages and conduct accurate bid reviews
Possess superior negotiations skills and be able to successfully resolve contract issues related to bid packages
Possess the ability to control meetings with the success of the project in mind
Be able to successfully negotiate project construction time and penalty clauses

Technical Skills for Estimators

Understand time management to positively impacting the bid preparation process as well as implementation of work
Be familiar with construction scheduling and properly calculate material and labor requirements
Accurately calculate labor costs on all projects
Possess computer skills adequate to the successful utilization of word processing, computer aided drafting, and computer estimating programs
Be proficient in use of calculating machines and or programs
Be able to determine productivity rates and accurately include these estimates in the bid package Safety
Must be able to accurately bid a project while taking into consideration all elements of CFR 1926 and 1910
Should successfully complete an OSHA 10 HR safety course every three years
Should successfully complete an OSHA 30 HR safety course every six years
Should understand the elements of the Federal regulations pertaining to competent person requirements

Business Development Reading for Estimators

Be prepared to deal with special projects which fall outside the normal scope of operation for the company and prepare bids which reflect a positive cash flow
Stay familiar with the company's quality surveys to accurately calculate contingencies in the bid package
Monitor cost control on all projects to verify accuracy of bids
Review cost reports and report any recommendations for change orders
Be thoroughly familiar with company labor rates as well as special labor rates on projects covered by prevailing wage and or Davis-Bacon
Aggressively address problem solving with a “Can Do” attitude

Communications for Estimators

Possess strong verbal communication skills and be able to communicate effectively at all levels throughout the construction process
Be able to write clearly and effectively communicate to all persons and organizations involved in the construction process
Must be able to listen to all participants in a construction project, correctly interpret their comments, and act on them in an appropriate manner
Positively communicate in a nonverbal manner Leadership
Apply appropriate leadership style to various situations
Provide appropriate motivation to subordinates
Manage stressful situations positively
Demonstrate successful leadership traits at all times
Incorporate principals of management into daily operations
Establish proper personal and group goal setting activities
Successfully manage personal or group efforts
Utilize effective personal and group decision making practices

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