[Core] [22% incumbents] Analyze blueprints and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
  DWAs: Estimate costs of goods or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Confer with engineers, architects, owners, contractors, and subcontractors on changes and adjustments to cost estimates.
  DWAs: Confer with others about financial matters.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Collect historical cost data to estimate costs for current or future products.
  DWAs: Analyze business or financial data.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Assess cost effectiveness of products, projects or services, tracking actual costs relative to bids as the project develops.
  DWAs: Monitor financial indicators. | Assess the cost effectiveness of products, projects, or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Consult with clients, vendors, personnel in other departments, or construction foremen to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues.
  DWAs: Confer with personnel to coordinate business operations.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Establish and maintain tendering process, and conduct negotiations.
  DWAs: Establish business management methods. | Negotiate agreements to resolve disputes.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Prepare estimates for use in selecting vendors or subcontractors.
  DWAs: Estimate costs of goods or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Prepare estimates used by management for purposes such as planning, organizing, and scheduling work.
  DWAs: Estimate costs of goods or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Set up cost monitoring and reporting systems and procedures.
  DWAs: Develop business or financial information systems.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Review material and labor requirements to decide whether it is more cost-effective to produce or purchase components.
  DWAs: Estimate costs of goods or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Prepare cost and expenditure statements and other necessary documentation at regular intervals for the duration of the project.
  DWAs: Prepare financial documents.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Conduct special studies to develop and establish standard hour and related cost data or to reduce cost.
  DWAs: Analyze business or financial data. | Estimate costs of goods or services.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Visit site and record information about access, drainage and topography, and availability of utility services.
  DWAs: Collect data about project sites. | Inspect work sites to determine condition or necessary repairs.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Prepare and maintain a directory of suppliers, contractors and subcontractors.
  DWAs: Maintain data in information systems or databases.

[EMERGING:New] Use remote sensing technologies or drones to evaluate site conditions when in-person visits are not feasible.

--- SKILLS ---
  Reading Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Mathematics (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Speaking (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Active Listening (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.75 lvl:4.12) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Writing (imp:3.50 lvl:4.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Active Learning (imp:3.25 lvl:3.88) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Mathematics (imp:4.41 lvl:5.73) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Economics and Accounting (imp:3.95 lvl:4.82) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Computers and Electronics (imp:3.50 lvl:4.36) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Engineering and Technology (imp:3.41 lvl:3.86) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Building and Construction (imp:3.32 lvl:4.09) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Administration and Management (imp:3.18 lvl:4.09) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  English Language (imp:3.18 lvl:3.27) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Design (imp:3.14 lvl:3.68) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.00 lvl:3.59) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Mechanical (imp:2.91 lvl:3.45) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Production and Processing (imp:2.82 lvl:2.91) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Administrative (imp:2.76 lvl:3.64) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Physics (imp:2.71 lvl:3.19) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Law and Government (imp:2.55 lvl:2.64) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.45 lvl:2.86) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Education and Training (imp:2.27 lvl:3.05) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.19 lvl:2.59) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Transportation (imp:2.14 lvl:1.95) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.00 lvl:1.73) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Telecommunications (imp:2.00 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Geography (imp:1.86 lvl:2.24) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Psychology (imp:1.77 lvl:1.59) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Communications and Media (imp:1.77 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Chemistry (imp:1.73 lvl:1.50) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Biology (imp:1.64 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.55 lvl:1.09) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Foreign Language (imp:1.41 lvl:0.68) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.33 lvl:0.91) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.27 lvl:0.77) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Food Production (imp:1.23 lvl:0.55) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.18 lvl:0.45) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.14 lvl:0.27) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Fine Arts (imp:1.05 lvl:0.09) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform

--- ABILITIES ---
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:4.12 lvl:4.12) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Oral Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Oral Expression (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:4.12) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Number Facility (imp:3.88 lvl:4.25) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Written Expression (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.75 lvl:4.12) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Near Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Information Ordering (imp:3.62 lvl:4.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.25) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.25 lvl:3.50) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.75) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:3.00 lvl:3.50) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Visualization (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Originality (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Far Vision (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Time Sharing (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:1.88 lvl:1.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Trunk Strength (imp:1.75 lvl:1.38) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Auditory Attention (imp:1.62 lvl:1.00) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Finger Dexterity (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Depth Perception (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:1.50 lvl:1.00) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Manual Dexterity (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Control Precision (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Response Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:1.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Static Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Dynamic Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Extent Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Getting Information (imp:4.64 lvl:5.18) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:4.57 lvl:5.77) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Working with Computers (imp:4.57 lvl:4.36) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:4.48 lvl:4.82) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.32 lvl:5.09) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.27 lvl:4.86) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.23 lvl:5.45) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Processing Information (imp:4.09 lvl:5.36) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.82 lvl:4.05) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.82 lvl:5.00) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.81 lvl:4.73) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.81 lvl:4.77) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.81 lvl:3.95) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.77 lvl:4.41) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.76 lvl:4.05) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.64 lvl:4.05) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.55 lvl:4.55) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.45 lvl:3.95) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:3.43 lvl:4.18) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.36 lvl:4.45) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.36 lvl:4.00) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.36 lvl:3.95) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.36 lvl:4.09) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.27 lvl:3.59) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.09 lvl:3.73) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.05 lvl:3.77) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.95 lvl:3.68) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.75 lvl:3.62) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.59 lvl:2.86) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.59 lvl:2.68) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:2.32 lvl:2.27) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.00 lvl:1.77) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.00 lvl:2.18) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:1.95 lvl:1.55) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.64 lvl:1.36) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:1.55 lvl:1.00) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:1.50 lvl:1.05) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.27 lvl:0.45) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.18 lvl:0.23) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.14 lvl:0.32) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:1.10 lvl:0.41) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.77) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.59) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Integrity (imp:2.17) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Integrity (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Perseverance (imp:1.83) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.73) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.60) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.49) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:1.44) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Initiative (imp:1.38) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability (imp:1.26) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Cooperation (imp:1.26) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Self-Control (imp:1.22) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Social Orientation (imp:1.20) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Leadership Orientation (imp:0.98) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Innovation (imp:0.94) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Sincerity (imp:0.53) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.41) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Humility (imp:0.34) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Optimism (imp:0.06) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Empathy (imp:-0.08) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.38 lvl:3.62) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Persuasion (imp:3.00 lvl:3.50) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Negotiation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Systems Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.50) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Instructing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.75 lvl:3.00) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Technology Design (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Programming (imp:1.50 lvl:0.88) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Equipment Selection (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Operation and Control (imp:1.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Troubleshooting (imp:1.00) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 224,220
  annual_median    : $78,740
  annual_pct10     : $48,530
  annual_pct25     : $61,150
  annual_pct75     : $101,850
  annual_pct90     : $130,820
  annual_mean      : $85,390
  hourly_median    : $37.86

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Massachusetts ($100,840)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($47,130)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.140x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (53 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:  122,940  median: $  82,730
  Manufacturing                            emp:   26,950  median: $  75,940
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:   22,050  median: $  65,190
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:   11,610  median: $  71,150
  Retail Trade                             emp:   11,150  median: $  66,430
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    9,990  median: $  74,040
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    9,560  median: $  89,440
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    3,640  median: $  82,110
  Utilities                                emp:    1,600  median: $ 123,170
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:    1,290  median: $  57,830

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (18 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:  122,940  median: $  82,730
  Manufacturing                            emp:   26,950  median: $  75,940
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:   22,050  median: $  65,190
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:   11,610  median: $  71,150
  Retail Trade                             emp:   11,150  median: $  66,430
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    9,990  median: $  74,040
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    9,560  median: $  89,440
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    3,640  median: $  82,110
  Utilities                                emp:    1,600  median: $ 123,170
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:    1,290  median: $  57,830

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Cost estimate
match_score        : 0.8571
wikidata_qid       : Q795053
word_count         : 2,688
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cost_estimate
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T20:11:13.116414Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
A cost estimate is the approximation of the cost of a program, project, or operation. The cost estimate is the product of the cost estimating process. The cost estimate has a single total value and may have identifiable component values.
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) defines a cost estimate as "the summation of individual cost elements, using established methods and valid data, to estimate the future costs of a program, based on what is known today".
The American Association of Cost Engineering (AACEI) defines a cost estimate as the prediction of the probable costs of a project or effort, for a given and documented scope, a defined location, and point of time in the future (February 2021).
Potential cost overruns can be avoided with a credible, reliable, and accurate cost estimate.


== Overview ==
The GAO reports that "realistic cost estimating was imperative when making wise decisions in acquiring new systems". A cost estimate is often needed to support evaluations of project feasibility or funding requirements in support of planning. A cost estimate is often used to establish a budget as the cost constraint for a project or operation.
In project management, project cost management is a major functional division. Cost estimating is one of three activities performed in project cost management.
In cost engineering, cost estimation is a basic activity. A cost engineering reference book has chapters on capital investment cost estimation and operating cost estimation. The fixed capital investment provides the physical facilities. The working capital investment is a revolving fund to keep the facilities operating.
In system, product, or facility acquisition planning, a cost estimate is used to evaluate the required funding and to compare with bids or tenders.
In construction contracting, a cost estimate is usually prepared to submit a bid or tender to compete for a contract award.
In facility maintenance and operation, cost estimates are used to establish funding or budgets.
In manufacturing, costing plays a crucial role in cost estimation by identifying and calculating the expenses for materials, labor, and overhead required to produce a product.
In pricing and cost discovery negotiations, a "should cost" model is a documented calculation undertaken by a potential customer or their negotiator through which they understand the costs facing the supplier and are equipped to investigate or challenge proposed prices put forward by a supplier's cost estimator. The Society of Cost Engineers argues that the process of "should costing", with its intention to challenge or "stretch" a supplier's cost proposals, is different from an internal cost estimation process. A number of well-established should-cost solution providers actively maintain cost data used to model costing.
In an attempt to manage liability risk, some firms avoid the use of the word estimate and instead refer to the estimate as an "Opinion of Probable Cost".


== Cost estimate types ==
Various projects and operations have distinct types of cost estimating, which vary in their composition and preparation methods. Some of the major areas include:

Construction cost        (i) detailed construction estimate    (ii) abstract construction estimate
Manufacturing cost
Total delivery cost
Software development cost
Aerospace mission cost
Resource exploration cost
Facility operation cost
Facility maintenance and repair cost
Facility rehabilitation and renewal cost
Facility retirement cost


== Cost estimate classifications ==
Common cost estimate classifications historically used are

Order of magnitude
Preliminary
Definitive
These correspond to modern published classes 5, 3, and 1, respectively. The U.S. Department of Energy and many others use a system of five classes of estimates:

Methods used to prepare the estimates range from stochastic or judgment at early definition to deterministic at later definition. Some estimates use mixed methods.
Cost estimate classifications have been published by ASTM and AACE International. The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) defines estimate levels in the reverse order as Level 1 – Order (Range) of Magnitude, Level 2 – Schematic/Conceptual Design, Level 3- Design Development, Level 4 – Construction Document, and Level 5 – Bid. The Association of Cost Engineers (ACostE) defines a Class I Estimate as definitive, a Class II Estimate as semi-detailed, and a Class III Estimate as pre-budget.
Other names for estimates of different classes include:


== Estimate quality ==
Estimate quality refers to the delineation of quality requirements for the estimate. These requirements are set out in accordance with official quality assurance standards. There may also be other expectations for the estimate which are not specific requirements, but may affect the perceived quality of the estimate. Published quality requirements generally have to do with credibility, accuracy, confidence level, precision, risk, reliability, and validity of the estimate, as well as thoroughness, uniformity, consistency, verification, and documentation.
“The result of bidding without good estimates is certain: jobs that end up with less profit, no profit, or a loss. The bidder ultimately will go out of business; the only question is how long will it take.”

Since a cost estimate is the approximation of the cost of a project or operation, then estimate accuracy is a measure of how closely the estimate is able to predict the actual expenditures for the project or operation. This can only be known after the project is completed. If, for example, a project estimate was $1,252,000 for a specific scope and conditions, and at completion the records showed that $1,172,451.26 was expended, the estimate was 6.8% too high. If the project ended up having a different scope or conditions, an unadjusted computation does not fairly assess the estimate accuracy. Predictions of the estimate accuracy may accompany the estimate. Typically this is expressed as a range higher or lower as compared with the point estimate with an expected probability that the actual cost will fall in the range.  An example for a definitive estimate might be that the estimate has a -5/+10% range of accuracy with a 90% confidence that the final value will fall in that range. The accuracy of an early estimate relates to the estimate quality. Factors affecting the quality of the estimate include the people who prepared the estimate, how the estimate was prepared, and what was known about the project. For the same project, the range of uncertainty about the total estimate decreases over time, as illustrated in the cone of uncertainty diagram.
High-quality cost estimates are developed through a structured process that includes defining scope, identifying ground rules, collecting data, and analyzing risk. Thorough documentation—commonly referred to as the Basis of Estimate (BOE)—is key for transparency and traceability. Supporting documents may include quantity takeoffs, methodology, vendor quotes, and cost assumptions.
Additional insights into industry practices are discussed in various estimation resources.
Although the pursuit of cost estimate accuracy should always be encouraged, a study in 2002 found that the estimates used to determine whether important infrastructure should be built were "highly and systematically misleading".


== Contingency ==

A contingency may be included in an estimate to provide for unknown costs which from experience are indicated as likely to occur, but are not identifiable. When using an estimate which has no contingency to set a budget or to set aside funding, a contingency is often added to increase the probability that the budget or funding will be adequate to complete the project. The estimate or budget contingency is not intended to compensate for poor estimate quality, and is not intended to fund design growth, owner changes, or anything else unrelated to delivering the scope as 

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Cost contingency (similarity: 0.4516)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cost_contingency
  QID: Q5174763
  Extract: When estimating the cost for a project, product or other item or investment, there is always uncertainty as to the precise content of all items in the estimate, how work will be performed, what work conditions will be like when the project is executed and so on. These uncertainties are risks to the 

  Title: Construction estimating software (similarity: 0.5957)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction_estimating_software
  QID: Q5164452
  Extract: Construction cost estimating software is computer software designed for contractors to estimate construction costs for a specific project. A cost estimator will typically use estimating software to estimate their bid price for a project, which will ultimately become part of a resulting construction 

  Title: Cost engineering (similarity: 0.5161)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cost_engineering
  QID: Q2443008
  Extract: Cost engineering is "the engineering practice devoted to the management of project cost, involving such activities as estimating, cost control, cost forecasting, investment appraisal and risk analysis". "Cost Engineers budget, plan and monitor investment projects. They seek the optimum balance betwe

  Title: Bayesian optimization (similarity: 0.4444)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayesian_optimization
  QID: Q17002908
  Extract: Bayesian optimization is a sequential design strategy for global optimization of black-box functions, that does not assume any functional forms. It is usually employed to optimize expensive-to-evaluate functions. With the rise of artificial intelligence innovation in the 21st century, Bayesian optim

  Title: Glossary of construction cost estimating (similarity: 0.4364)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_construction_cost_estimating
  QID: Q5571780
  Extract: The following is a glossary of terms relating to construction cost estimating.

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence based on comprehensive O*NET data including detailed task descriptions, clear educational requirements, robust wage data from BLS OEWS May 2025, and well-defined related occupations that support career progression pathways.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T13:12:03.951248+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,547
tokens_output        : 3,913
cost_usd             : $0.045586
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Cost estimate
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia entry for 'Cost estimate' directly aligns with the occupation's core function of approximating project and product costs. The semantic neighbors including construction estimating software and cost engineering confirm the technical and specialized nature of the field.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Cost Estimators analyze blueprints, project specifications, and historical data to prepare detailed cost estimates for construction projects, manufacturing products, and services. They work closely with engineers, architects, and contractors to assess materials, labor, and time requirements that help organizations price projects competitively and manage financial risk. These professionals combine strong analytical skills with industry knowledge to support critical business decisions in bidding and project planning.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Cost Estimators spend their days analyzing blueprints and technical documentation to break down project components and calculate material and labor requirements. They collect and review historical cost data, then use specialized software like Autodesk AutoCAD and Microsoft Excel to prepare detailed estimates. Much of their time involves conferring with engineers, architects, contractors, and vendors to discuss project changes and refine cost calculations. They also monitor ongoing projects to track actual costs against estimates, establishing cost reporting systems and procedures to improve future accuracy.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful Cost Estimators possess strong mathematical reasoning abilities and exceptional attention to detail, as precise calculations directly impact project profitability. They excel at inductive reasoning to identify patterns in cost data and have the oral communication skills needed to negotiate with vendors and coordinate with project teams. The role attracts individuals who enjoy working with complex data and technical specifications while maintaining high standards of dependability and integrity. People who thrive in this role typically have a conventional work style, preferring structured analytical tasks over creative or interpersonal work.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most Cost Estimators enter the field with a bachelor's degree (81.8% of practitioners), often in construction management, engineering, mathematics, or business. Some professionals start with an associate's degree (9.1%) and gain industry-specific knowledge through on-the-job training. Entry-level positions typically require familiarity with construction or manufacturing processes, along with proficiency in cost estimation software and spreadsheet applications. Job Zone 4 designation indicates considerable preparation is needed, including understanding of industry standards and estimation methodologies.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Cost Estimators can advance to senior estimator roles, cost engineering positions, or project management specialists (13-1082.00), leveraging their detailed project knowledge and financial acumen. Many progress into construction management (11-9021.00) or architectural and engineering management (11-9041.00) roles, where their cost analysis background provides valuable perspective on project feasibility and resource allocation. Some specialize in particular industries or types of estimation, becoming consultants or moving into purchasing and procurement roles where their vendor relationship skills prove valuable.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
Cost Estimators earn a median annual wage of $78,740 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, with the field employing 224,220 professionals nationwide. The profession shows strong geographic variation, with Massachusetts offering the highest wages at $100,840 compared to Puerto Rico at $47,130, reflecting regional construction activity and cost of living differences. Construction remains the largest employer with 122,940 positions, followed by manufacturing with 26,950 jobs. The emerging use of remote sensing technologies and drones for site evaluation indicates the field is adapting to technological advances while maintaining core analytical functions.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Cost Estimators face moderate automation risk as their work involves complex analytical reasoning and contextual decision-making that current AI cannot fully replicate. While software tools are increasingly sophisticated for basic calculations and data processing, the profession's emphasis on interpreting blueprints, negotiating with stakeholders, and making nuanced judgments about project variables provides protection against full automation. The integration of new technologies like drones and remote sensing actually enhances rather than replaces human expertise in cost estimation.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Project Management Specialists (13-1082.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share high-level planning and coordination responsibilities with overlapping skills in resource management and stakeholder communication.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Long
    data: Both require Coordination skills
    data: Both involve Making Decisions and Solving Problems work activity
  [career_pathway] Construction Managers (11-9021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Construction Managers advance from estimation roles, using cost analysis experience to oversee entire project lifecycles.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Short
    data: Both have Building and Construction knowledge
    data: Construction is top industry for Cost Estimators
  [skill_overlap] Civil Engineers (17-2051.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share Mathematical Reasoning abilities and Engineering and Technology knowledge for infrastructure project analysis.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Long
    data: Both require Mathematical Reasoning ability
    data: Both need Engineering and Technology knowledge
  [transferable_skill] Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products (13-1023.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles involve vendor evaluation and negotiation with shared emphasis on cost analysis and supplier relationship management.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Long
    data: Both involve Management of Financial Resources
    data: Both require vendor/supplier interaction
  [knowledge_overlap] Industrial Engineers (17-2112.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both professions require strong Mathematics knowledge and analytical skills for optimizing processes and resource allocation.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Short
    data: Both require Mathematics knowledge at high levels
    data: Both involve Analyzing Data or Information work activity
  [task_similarity] Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks (43-5061.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles involve coordinating with multiple stakeholders and tracking project progress against planned schedules and budgets.
    data: Related occupation Primary-Long
    data: Both involve Coordinating work activities
    data: Both require attention to scheduling and resource planning

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['cost estimator', 'cost estimate', 'estimating', 'cost analysis', 'project costing', 'bid preparation', 'construction estimator', 'cost engineer']
  exclude_keywords : ['sales estimator', 'insurance adjuster', 'appraiser', 'valuation', 'assessor']
  title_patterns   : ['*Cost Estimator*', '*Construction Estimator*', '*Cost Analyst*', '*Estimating*', '*Cost Engineer*']
  common_variations: ['Building Estimator', 'Commercial Estimator', 'Construction Cost Estimator', 'Project Cost Estimator', 'Cost Analyst', 'Estimating Analyst', 'Civil Estimator', 'Cost Consultant']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['cost', 'estimate', 'project', 'costs', 'others', 'tendency', 'estimates', 'construction', 'equipment', 'estimating', 'quality', 'management', 'services', 'principles', 'includes', 'estimators', 'design', 'materials', 'control', 'scope']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
cost                      142  0.03542  wikipedia            wikipedia:80%  inference:13%  onet_tasks:6%
estimate                   79  0.01971  wikipedia            wikipedia:91%  dwas:6%  onet_tasks:1%
project                    48  0.01197  wikipedia            wikipedia:71%  inference:23%  onet_tasks:4%
costs                      47  0.01172  wikipedia            wikipedia:72%  dwas:11%  onet_dimensions:9%
others                     42  0.01048  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  wikipedia:7%  dwas:2%
tendency                   42  0.01048  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
estimates                  37  0.00923  wikipedia            wikipedia:78%  onet_tasks:14%  inference:8%
construction               36  0.00898  wikipedia            wikipedia:72%  inference:19%  onet_dimensions:6%
equipment                  27  0.00673  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:85%  wikipedia:15%
estimating                 21  0.00524  wikipedia            wikipedia:81%  onet_dimensions:14%  inference:5%
quality                    20  0.00499  wikipedia            wikipedia:70%  onet_dimensions:30%
management                 19  0.00474  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:37%  wikipedia:32%  inference:21%
services                   17  0.00424  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:35%  dwas:35%  onet_tasks:12%
principles                 16  0.00399  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
includes                   16  0.00399  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  wikipedia:25%
estimators                 16  0.00399  wikipedia            wikipedia:56%  inference:44%
design                     15  0.00374  wikipedia            wikipedia:60%  onet_dimensions:40%
materials                  14  0.00349  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  wikipedia:14%  onet_tasks:7%
control                    14  0.00349  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  wikipedia:14%
scope                      14  0.00349  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
requirements               12  0.00299  wikipedia            wikipedia:67%  inference:17%  onet_tasks:8%
software                   12  0.00299  wikipedia            wikipedia:42%  inference:33%  onet_dimensions:25%
engineering                12  0.00299  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  inference:33%  onet_dimensions:17%
resources                  12  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  wikipedia:25%
needed                     12  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:58%  wikipedia:25%  inference:17%
objects                    12  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
estimation                 12  0.00299  wikipedia            wikipedia:67%  inference:33%
rules                      11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  wikipedia:27%
financial                  11  0.00274  dwas                 dwas:55%  onet_dimensions:27%  inference:18%
techniques                 11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:91%  wikipedia:9%
production                 11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  wikipedia:27%
standards                  11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  inference:18%  wikipedia:9%
ideas                      11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
activities                 11  0.00274  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:82%  wikipedia:18%
engineers                  10  0.00249  wikipedia            wikipedia:70%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:10%
planning                   10  0.00249  wikipedia            wikipedia:60%  onet_dimensions:20%  onet_tasks:10%
procedures                 10  0.00249  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  onet_tasks:10%  inference:10%
problems                   10  0.00249  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  wikipedia:10%
understand                 10  0.00249  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  wikipedia:30%
facility                   10  0.00249  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_dimensions:10%