Junior Cost Estimator

Program Management | Construction Management

KKCS, a California Corporation, is a full-service construction management and program management organization. The firm has grown steadily in size and capability since its founding in 1987, and today employs more than 95 professionals in our regional offices. KKCS has attracted a full complement of highly experienced, talented, and dedicated professionals to its staff who bring a collaborative, integrated team approach to our clients’ projects.

KKCS experience includes work on rail, airports, ports, freeways, schools, universities, facilities, water, wastewater, bridges, and roadways. Our client list includes federal agencies, state agencies, regional agencies, and private clients. KKCS has broad experience and expertise in engineering design, project management, and project controls services.

The KKCS culture is rooted in the ideals of integrity, safety, diversity, and ethical business practices, which is a commitment shared by all KKCS employees throughout our offices and project sites around the country. We have a positive impact on the communities we serve by not only improving infrastructure, but also providing service at a relatively low cost to the taxpayer. This allows more money to be available to the agencies we serve, which will inevitably be reinvested in the community. At KKCS, we value the individual employee and the importance of their contributions toward quality improvement.

Junior Cost Estimator – Rail & Transit

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• $135,200 – $156,000 annually (Equivalent to $65 – $75/hour, W2)
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees
• 401k retirement plan with company matching contribution
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Company-paid life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) benefits
• Company-paid long-term (LTD) insurance
• Annual tuition assistance allowance for employees
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

KKCS is seeking a Junior Cost Estimator to support active LA Metro rail and transit projects in Downtown Los Angeles . This hybrid position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting complex infrastructure projects, including those delivered through Design-Build and Alternative Delivery methods. We’re looking for individuals with a strong foundation in cost estimating, enthusiasm for public transportation work, and a desire to grow within a supportive and technically driven team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in developing detailed construction cost estimates from conceptual design through final construction documents.
• Perform quantity take-offs using drawings, specifications, and other supporting documentation.
• Research current unit costs and apply accurate labor, equipment, and material pricing.
• Support senior estimators on scope changes, change order analysis, and cost reconciliations.
• Help develop Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation to accompany project estimates.
• Contribute to the preparation of estimates for projects delivered via Design-Build, CMGC, CMAR, and other Alternative Delivery methods.
• Support internal cost benchmarking and database maintenance.
• Attend project meetings to understand design intent and construction phasing.
• Use estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, Excel, and On-Screen Takeoff.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.

Experience:

• 2–5 years of experience in cost estimating for public infrastructure, preferably transit, rail, or transportation projects.
• Familiarity with Design-Build and Alternative Delivery project environments.
• Strong Excel skills and ability to work with cost and quantity data.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and technical documents.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting LA Metro or similar Southern California agency projects.
• Proficiency in HCSS HeavyBid, Sage Estimating, or other cost estimating software.
• Familiarity with On-Screen Takeoff or Bluebeam Revu.
• Exposure to risk-based estimating and cost forecasting approaches.

KKCS is an equal opportunity employer encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.