Estimators are responsible for calculating the probable costs of a building. They determine the total costs of projects, their time for completion, and the revenue that is going to be achieved. They may work at the manufacturing and construction areas. They need to visit the job site, analyze project plans, and then work with the project supervisor to oversee specific requirements of the job.

Estimators usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Communicating with vendors and subcontractors.
• Reviewing drawings.
• Liaising with clients.
• Preparing work item quantities.
• Creating cost-monitoring processes.

• Having high attention to details.
• Being able to work with a team.
• Having good math skills.
• Being commercially aware.
• Having technical background in a relevant discipline.
• Being able to work with CAD applications.
• Having safety and health awareness.
• Being able to understand blueprints.
• Having project management skills.
• Being able to motivate others.

Applicants for Estimator job placements need to have a College Degree with specialization in Statistics, Architecture, Mathematics, or Civil, Construction, or Structural Engineering. People who want to work on this field are also encouraged to take courses in finance, operations research, physical science, business, marketing, and accounting to obtain suitable knowledge for future jobs. Some employers demand candidates having practical job experience as labor supervisors in this industry. Licenses and certifications are not mandatory for professionals working on this area, but these qualifications can improve job opportunities of candidates. These certificates are offered by several institutions including SCEA, ASPE, and AACE International.