Cost Estimation and Specification Specialist

Michael Baker International

Cost Estimation and Specification Specialist for Michael Baker, developing estimates and specifications for diverse capital improvement projects. Collaborate on civil infrastructure and facility improvement projects.

Posted 6/30/2026full-timeNewark • New Jersey • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $85,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop detailed cost estimates for civil, infrastructure, and facility projects, including roadway, utilities, buildings, and transportation-related improvements.
Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction-level cost estimates.
Analyze plans/specs to identify risks, assumptions, and cost drivers
Draft and review technical specifications and standards
Produce specifications that ensure transportation designs, materials, and operations comply with federal and state regulations, optimize supply chain efficiency, and minimize delivery or construction costs.
Perform quantity take‑offs, unit pricing and cost benchmarking
Support value engineering and cost optimization efforts throughout project development
Collaborate with project managers, engineers, designers, and clients
Prepare cost reports, cash flow projections, and cost variance analyses.
Assist with bid evaluations, contractor pricing reviews, and change order assessments.
Maintain estimating databases and benchmark cost data across infrastructure and facility projects.
Support compliance with project‑specific funding or regulatory requirements, as applicable.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
5+ years of cost estimating and specification experience for civil, infrastructure, utility, roadway, or vertical construction projects
Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or ability to obtain certification
Working knowledge of standard specifications, phasing considerations, and operational constraints for NY/NJ (NJDOT, NJTA, NYSDOT, etc.)
Proficiency with estimating software and tools (e.g., Excel, Sage, RSMeans, or similar platforms)
Strong analytical, organizational, and attention‑to‑detail skills

Benefits

Comp & perks

Health insurance
401(k) matching
Flexible work hours
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Cost EstimatingQuantity Take-OffsCost BenchmarkingValue EngineeringCost OptimizationTechnical Specification DraftingRisk AnalysisCost Variance AnalysisCash Flow ProjectionsBid Evaluations

Soft Skills

Analytical SkillsOrganizational SkillsAttention to Detail

Certifications

Certified Cost Professional (CCP)