Cost Estimator, Fremont

Cost Estimator - San Francisco, CA
Salary: $90,000 – $130,000
Fortiva are partnering with a leading Owner's Representative and construction consultancy to appoint a Cost Estimator to support a diverse portfolio of projects across multiple sectors.
This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented professional to play a key role in delivering accurate cost advice and supporting financial decision-making across the full lifecycle of construction projects.
Position Overview
The Cost Estimator will be responsible for delivering independent cost management services across multiple projects of varying scale and complexity.
This includes developing estimates, reviewing change orders, supporting feasibility studies, and providing ongoing cost analysis to ensure projects remain aligned with budget and commercial objectives.
You will work closely with project teams and clients, providing insight, identifying risks, and highlighting opportunities to enhance value and improve project outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates
Develop and maintain cost plans and budgeting strategies
Review and assess change orders, variations, and contractor bids
Conduct quantity take-offs from drawings and specifications
Support value engineering, life cycle costing, and sustainability analysis
Analyze labor, material, and time requirements to produce accurate estimates
Identify cost risks and provide recommendations to mitigate impact
Produce cost reports, benchmarking data, and financial summaries
Maintain and update cost databases and historical cost information
Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignment
Present findings and cost advice clearly to clients and project teams
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a commercially aware and technically capable professional with a strong foundation in construction estimating and cost planning.
Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or related discipline
Experience in cost estimating, cost planning, and cost control within construction
Background across commercial, institutional, or industrial sectors, particularly vertical construction
Strong understanding of both early-stage estimating and detailed pricing
Experience with procurement processes such as CMGC/GCCM is advantageous
Proficiency in estimating software, on-screen takeoff tools, and BIM environments
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Professional certifications are considered a plus.
Why This Role
Opportunity to work across diverse, high-impact construction projects
Collaborative, client-focused consultancy environment
Strong exposure to both preconstruction and live project cost management
Clear pathway for professional development and progression