Estimating Intern (Summer 2026)

Employment Type: Intern 

Division:  Estimating 

Department: Estimating 

Salary Range: $23 - $28/hour

The Estimating Intern supports the estimating team by assisting with quantity take-offs, subcontractor coordination, product research, and document management. This role offers hands-on experience in cost comparisons, record maintenance, and aligning estimating activities with project goals within a dynamic construction environment. 

Responsibilities / Essential Functions 

• Assist with quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and cost comparisons; compile detailed estimates for materials, labor, and project systems, documenting assumptions and qualifications. 
• Manage subcontractor lists and contacts, conduct research on products and suppliers, and maintain accurate estimating databases and records. 
• Conduct site visits to collect project-specific data—such as access, topography, and utilities—and analyze historical cost data to support bids. 
• Prepare and reconcile cost estimates against previous projects and assist in monitoring actual vs. estimated expenditures to assess cost effectiveness. 
• Facilitate collaboration by coordinating with engineers, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams throughout the estimating process. 
• Support bid development by preparing expenditure statements, maintaining tender documentation, and participate in estimate review and value-engineering sessions. 
• Utilize cost-monitoring systems to identify potential risks or variances, contributing to negotiations and decision-making. 
• Maintain precise and timely updates in estimating databases and project files to ensure smooth estimating workflows and compliance with company procedures. 

Key Skills 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly convey information to subcontractors, internal teams, and stakeholders. 
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure accuracy in cost calculations, takeoffs, and documentation. 
• Effective organizational skills to manage project files and maintain clear records across multiple active estimates. 
• Time management skills to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced preconstruction environment. 
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities with a focus on data accuracy and clarity. 
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment. 
• Demonstrated interest in the construction industry, especially in estimating or project planning roles. 
• Adaptability and curiosity to learn new systems, methods, and technologies relevant to estimating.

Required Experience

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (strong preference for construction-focused programs). 
• Foundational understanding of construction processes, materials, systems, and terminology. 
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel for cost tracking and analysis. 
• Familiarity with estimating tools or software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar platforms) is a plus. 
• Capable of conducting vendor, material, and cost research to support pricing accuracy. 
• Experience organizing or contributing to bid documentation, cost databases, and takeoff files (preferred). 
• Basic knowledge of unit pricing, quantity takeoffs, and cost estimating principles.