About the Role
YA Group's Planning and Construction Advisory Services (PCAS) team is seeking an Associate Construction Estimator to support pre-construction planning for a wide variety of projects. This role is ideal for recent graduates and early-career professionals who are analytical, detail-oriented, comfortable with technology, and excited to build a long-term career in the construction industry. You will learn how to evaluate drawings, quantify materials, develop project budgets, and provide cost guidance that helps clients make critical project decisions before construction begins. We provide hands-on training, mentorship, and a clear path for career growth.
Responsibilities
- Review and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project narratives.
- Participate in client and internal project kickoff meetings.
- Perform quantity take-offs using estimating software and digital construction tools.
- Develop Requests for Information (RFIs) and coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Research pricing and build cost estimates using historical data, vendor quotes, and market benchmarks.
- Conduct comparative cost analyses and budget evaluations.
- Prepare organized and professional estimate reports for clients and project teams.
- Communicate with contractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and owners throughout the estimating process.
- Support process improvement initiatives and estimating best practices.
- Assist with project documentation and other related responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Building Science, or a related field preferred.
- Candidates with internship, co-op, academic project, or professional experience are encouraged to apply.
- Up to two years of experience in construction, architecture, engineering, design, estimating, consulting, or a related field preferred.
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
- Comfort learning new software, estimating platforms, and AI-enabled technology tools.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Self-motivated and eager to learn.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
Skills
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office applications
- Estimating software
- Digital construction tools
- AI-enabled technology tools
Location
- Buffalo, NY
- Pittsburgh, PA
Work Type
- Onsite
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Early-career professionals
- Up to two years of experience
Education Level
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Building Science, or a related field preferred.
Salary/Compensations
- $65,000 - $70,000 annually
Benefits
- Employee-focused culture
- Strong commitment to work-life balance
- Flexible vacation
- Paid family care and sick leave
- Parental leave
- Comprehensive benefits
- 401(k) with company match
About the Company
- YA Group is an international professional services organization providing forensic consulting, engineering, risk mitigation, and related services.
- Founded over 25 years ago as a property damage consulting firm, YA has expanded through organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
- Today, YA has over 800 professionals dedicated to excellence, partnership, and driving innovation.
- Planning and Construction Advisory Services (PCAS), a Business Unit of YA, specializes in pre-construction and construction consulting, including cost estimating, scheduling, and constructability reviews.
- Known for accuracy and strategic insight, PCAS helps clients align scope, schedule, and budget from the earliest planning stages through project execution.
Equal Opportunity
- As part of our recruitment process, we may use AI-assisted tools to support candidate screening and evaluation.
- These tools are designed to assist, rather than replace, human decision-making, and all employment decisions are made by our recruiting team in accordance with applicable laws and our commitment to equal employment opportunity.
- Where required by law, we will provide additional information about the use of these tools, including their purpose, and offer alternative processes or accommodations upon request.
