Are you good with numbers and have a passion for construction? Then becoming an Estimator may be a great fit. When deciding which firm to hire for a construction project, one of the biggest factors is cost. Construction estimators calculate the price of time, labor and materials for a specific job, and then put together a bid. For new entrants to the field, that might involve blueprints, pencils and a calculator. For senior estimators, or those working at a large company, software does most of the heavy lifting.
AVERAGE STARTING HOURLY WAGE: $35,000 – $42,000 + Benefits
AVERAGE HOURLY WAGE WITH EXPERIENCE: $42,000 – $62,000 + Benefits
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES: 4-year University or 2-year Technical Degree or On-The-Job Training
Estimator Career Paths
South Dakota State University
Construction Management
The Construction Management program prepares you to manage projects in commercial, heavy-highway-utilities, and residential construction. Materials, building methods, estimating, scheduling, project management, contracts and safety are taught by our industry-prepared faculty. You will be prepared to manage and lead in a promising career in construction. Click here for more information!
South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Civil and environmental engineers make a difference. They serve the public by designing a wide variety of infrastructure systems such as dams and waterways, harbors, bridges, buildings, water supply and wastewater systems, highways and airports, tunnels and pipelines, and renewable energy facilities. The Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Civil and environmental engineers also serve as stewards of the natural environment and its resources. Click here for more information!
Southeast Technical College
Construction Management Technology
Construction Managers, also called project managers or general contractors, oversee a variety of projects in the fast-paced construction industry in Sioux Falls and nationwide. As a Construction Manager from Southeast Technical Institute, you will be a valuable asset on any residential, commercial or industrial project. Click here for more information!