Concrete estimators may require a bachelor's degree in a related field. Some employers may consider candidates with extensive experience who do not have a degree. Job specific training is usually provided for these positions.
Essential Information
Concrete estimators predict the cost and quantity of concrete materials needed for construction projects by researching data and factors relevant to the project. A bachelor's degree in a field such as building or construction science is usually required for employment, though a candidate without a degree who has an extensive amount of experience in construction may also be considered. On-the-job training is required for the position regardless of a candidate's education. Certification, while not required, is also an option for concrete estimators who want to bolster their professional recognition.
| Required Education | Bachelor's degree in building or construction science (in most cases) |
| Other Requirements | On-the-job training |
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | -1% (all cost estimators)* |
| Median Salary (2020) | $66,610 (all cost estimators)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements for Concrete Estimators
Many employers prefer to hire concrete estimators who have a bachelor's degree. Applicable majors for this job include building science, construction science, and construction management. All these degree programs include coursework on cost estimating. Internships and previous work experience in construction is usually necessary. In some cases, an experienced construction worker can transition to this career without a college degree.
Job training is necessary for this position even with previous experience and education. Every construction company handles estimation costs differently. New concrete estimators are paired up with experienced estimators. A concrete estimator first learns how to read blueprints and other construction specifications. Afterward, a concrete estimator is taken out to work sites to learn how to measure and estimate costs with routine tasks.
Certification is also looked upon highly. While certification isn't mandatory, many concrete estimators obtain a certification in order to be professionally recognized. Many different organizations offer certification, and the requirements can vary in each organization. The Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis requires a bachelor's degree and a minimum of two years of work experience (www.sceaonline.org). After meeting the eligibility requirements, a concrete estimator has to pass an examination and regularly meet recertification requirements.
Salary Info and Job Outlook
The employment of cost estimators is predicted to decline by about 1% between 2019 and 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The same source published the median annual salary earned by all cost estimators as $66,610 in May 2020. Industries employing the highest number of estimators included building equipment contracting companies (which paid their estimators an average of $76,800 a year in 2020), nonresidential building construction firms (paid estimators an average of $82,480), and foundation and structure building contractors (paying an average of $72,320 annually).
Concrete estimators usually need a bachelor's degree as well as industry experience. Though voluntary, professional certification is available and may be attractive to employers. The number of employment openings for all cost estimators is expected to decline during the 2019-2029 decade.
