Project Cost Estimator

Company: DHRM
Location: Salem
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

Title: Project Cost Estimator State Role Title: Prog Admin Specialist III Hiring Range: $83, 124 - $135,077 Pay Band: 6 Agency: VA Dept of Transportation Location: Salem Agency Website: http://www.virginiadot.org/jobs Recruitment Type: General Public - G Job Duties Are you driven by successful project metrics? Do you have skill in developing accurate cost estimates for transportation construction projects? If so, we are looking for professionals with experience in transportation design or construction who can support the Virginia Department of Transportation in developing cost estimates for funding applications, transportation studies and projects funded in our Six Year Plan. VDOT is seeking an experienced detail-oriented individual to join our Salem District Location and Design team to develop cost estimates for Planning, Preliminary, Right of Way and Construction phases using multiple estimating tools and software. This position will serve as the key senior leader representing the Salem District in all matters related to districtwide cost estimating. This person will be responsible for the development and administration of an estimating program within the district which implements Central Office estimating policies and procedures, including training on estimating to ensure consistent accurate estimates for projects from planning through design and construction. The position will oversee and provide guidance on estimates for projects from planning studies and funding applications, through project scoping, final design and advertisement. This person will research costs and challenges associated with unique items discovered in the design process to include detailed maintenance of traffic restrictions, phased bridge construction, environmental time of year restrictions and other effects upon industry. This position will be responsible for administering protocols to ensure project managers at VDOT and within our consulting community, are generating efficient and effective estimates following current market conditions. This position will participate in the development of estimating policies and practices and testing of new or updated tools and technology in estimating. The position must be able to coordinate and communicate well with internal and external stakeholders including consultants and localities. Assist Salem District Location and Design Section’s Quality Assurance team with the review of plans and related documents for transportation improvements on an as needed basis. VDOT is an emergency response agency, therefore you will work outside of normal work hours during emergency operations when services are needed. Minimum Qualifications • Knowledge of transportation laws, regulations, policies and procedures including federal, state and local planning and land use regulations, maintenance management, and work zone. • Knowledge of transportation engineering estimation principles and procedures. • Ability to follow oral and written instructions. • Ability to gather and analyze data and prepare technical reports. • Knowledge and application of construction engineering principles, roadway and structure design, and project programming. • Skill in building networks and relationships with employees, field personnel, contractors, consultants, suppliers, manufacturers and FHWA representatives. • Skill and ability to positively interact with employees, citizens and government officials, orally and in writing. • Ability to deliver presentations and conduct meetings. • Knowledge of public policy, external factors and business practices related to transportation. • Skill in maneuvering through complex issues and showing sensitivity to how people and organizations function, as well as negotiating and leading discussions to reach positive outcomes. • Skill in the use of computers, software applications and/or web-based applications. • Ability to work in a fast paced environment, a diverse workforce, and manage multiple assignments. • Skill in interpreting high value, complex contracts, special provisions and specifications related to transportation construction. -Ability to work with cost estimation techniques and in developing budgets for projects Additional Considerations • Experience in roadway design and project management for transportation projects • Experience using Microstation and other 3D roadway design software • Experience with cost estimation techniques and in developing budgets for projects • Experience in roadway and drainage design criteria, construction methods, standards, specifications, and materials • Knowledge of highway construction management and inspection techniques, methods, procedures, practices, and terminology • Knowledge of mathematics to include algebra, geometry, and trigonometry • Ability to apply mathematical formulas and engineering principles • Engineer in Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) License preferred • A combination of training, experience or education in Civil Engineering/Technology, Construction Technology, or related field desired Special Instructions You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position. Position is designated as essential to emergency operations and will be required to work outside normal work hours to ensure the safety of the traveling public. Fingerprint based background check, references, work history and DMV records will be verified prior to employment. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States. H1B PVISA Sponsorship is not available. Once on board, this position may be eligible for telework opportunities; availability, hours, and duration of telework shall be approved as outlined in the Commonwealth telework policy. In order to be considered for this position, you must submit your resume. You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position. State applications will only be accepted as submitted online by 11:55 pm on the closing date through the PageUp System. State applications submitted via email, postal mail, fax, or in person will not be considered. Applicants are expected to fully represent qualifications and work history on the State application and or resume. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide detailed information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may impact your interview eligibility. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is an Equal Opportunity Employer by both policy and practice. For more information about our employment practices, please visit “Information for VDOT Employees and Applicants”: http://www.virginiadot.org/jobs/information_for_employees.asp. Contact Information Name: donna.fizer Phone: 540-494-9465 Email: donna.fizer@vdot.virginia.gov In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019. Note : Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Keywords: DHRM, Burlington , Project Cost Estimator, Engineering , Salem, North Carolina