As an estimator, you’re the critical link between the customer and the manufacturing floor. Your work affects not only the customer’s budget, but also the production process and, ultimately, the company’s bottom line. It’s important, then, that you have a broad range of skills and knowledge. Below are some of the most important skills that you should have as an estimator. Do you have them all?
Overview of Estimator Job Duties
As an estimator, you are responsible for calculating the cost estimation of a project. This involves assessing the materials and time needed to complete the project, as well as taking into account any variables that may affect the final price. Your job is to provide your clients with a realistic estimate of how much a project will cost, and to keep them updated on any changes to the estimate. It’s also your responsibility to ensure that the project stays within budget. In order to be successful as an estimator, you need to have strong math skills and excellent problem-solving abilities. You must also be able to stay calm under force and make fast decisions.
Communication, Interpersonal and Mechanical Skills
As an estimator, you should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will be working with clients, suppliers, and other members of your team, so it’s important to be able to effectively communicate with them. You should also have strong mechanical skills. This will come in handy when you’re estimating the time and resources required to complete a project. You’ll need to be able to accurately assess the work that needs to be done and how long it will take.
Analytical, Problem Solving and Organizational Skills
As an estimator, you need to have strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Your job is to take a customer’s request and turn it into a bill of materials (BOM) that the shop can use to manufacture the product. This requires you to be able to dissect a request and ask the right questions to get all the information you need. You also want to be able to solve troubles. If the customer’s request doesn’t match up with the products you carry, you need to be able to come up with a solution that works for both of you. This could mean modifying an existing product or coming up with a completely new one. Finally, you need strong organizational skills. This comes in handy when creating your BOM. You need to make sure that all the parts are ordered and delivered on time so that the shop can start manufacturing the product as soon as possible.
Math, Technical and Financial Skills
If you’re considering becoming an estimator, it’s important to have a wide range of skills and knowledge. You’ll need to be able to understand complex technical concepts and have a good understanding of the construction process from start to finish. Your math and financial skills will be essential for this role. You’ll need to be able to estimate costs accurately, understand material quantities and develop bids for projects. You should also be familiar with project budgeting, cost control, and the laws relating to contracts and procurement. It’s also important that you’re comfortable with computers, as most of your work will require you to use software such as spreadsheets and word processing programs. Having experience with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is a plus because it can help you better visualize the project when pricing it out.
Knowledge about Laws, Regulations, and Safety
As a professional estimator, you need to be knowledgeable about laws and regulations pertaining to the industry. You also need an understanding of safety standards when dealing with hazardous substances and hazardous materials. You should also know how to read blueprints, understand measurements and be familiar with codes and other legal documents. You’ll also need to know how to comply with the rules and regulations. That governs building and construction projects, as well as the latest safety standards. Being up-to-date on the latest technology used in the industry is also beneficial. As this can help you determine accurate estimates for projects. Above all, estimators must be aware of any revisions or updates in state and federal laws that could potentially impact a project’s cost or timeline. A good estimator will be able to accurately account for all potential resources needed for a job while remaining compliant with relevant regulations.
Software Proficiency for Calculations and Estimates
Software proficiency is critical for an estimator. You’ll need to be comfortable using office and estimating software, as well as budgeting and accounting programs. Knowledge of spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel is also important since you’ll likely use it to create budgets, analyze cost data, and make calculations. You should also be familiar with a range of other software applications. Such as project management platforms, workflow management tools, invoicing systems, and communication tools. This will enable you to effectively track progress and deadlines send out quotes and manage orders. Knowing how to use Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools such as Revit can be helpful for creating 3D models for construction projects. If you’re just starting out in the estimation field and don’t have much experience yet, don’t worry. You can always brush up on all the necessary software by taking online courses or attending seminars. With sufficient practice and dedication, you’ll master the essential software skills in no time.
Conclusion
When it comes to estimating, skills are key. But what skills should an estimator have? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that question, as the skills an estimator needs will vary depending on the type of work they do. However, there are some key skills that all estimators should have. Communication skills, math skills, and skills related to the type of work they do. So, what skills does your estimator have? And are they the skills you need them to have?
