Top 10 Construction Estimator Certifications

Certifications are important for a construction estimator in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has gained a certain level of knowledge and expertise in their field. They also indicate to employers that the individual is committed to continuing their professional development and staying up to date with the latest industry trends and practices. Certifications provide proof of an estimator’s qualifications, and employers often prefer to hire those who have earned them as it increases their confidence in the estimator’s abilities. Additionally, certifications can help an estimator stand out from other job candidates and give them an edge when applying for positions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Construction Estimators and explains how they can provide professional growth and advancement opportunities for those in the field.

What are Construction Estimator Certifications?

Construction estimator certification is a credential that shows employers and clients that an individual has the skills, knowledge, and experience to accurately estimate the cost of building projects. It is designed to help construction estimators demonstrate their knowledge of industry standards and practices, as well as their ability to use various estimating tools and techniques. With this certification, construction estimators can prove they are experienced in project management and cost analysis, allowing them to be more competitive in the job market.

In addition to providing a competitive edge when seeking employment or new clients, holding a construction estimator certification also helps with career growth. Those who are certified are able to provide accurate estimates for large-scale projects quickly and efficiently. This allows them to take on larger jobs with greater confidence that their estimates will be accurate. Furthermore, it can open up opportunities for advancement within the industry, since employers often give preference to those who have additional certifications or credentials.

Pro Tip: Make sure to take a course in construction estimating that covers the basics, such as reading blueprints, understanding building codes and regulations, and calculating materials and labor costs. Additionally, obtaining a certification from an accredited institution can help you stay ahead of the competition and demonstrate your knowledge of the industry.

Related: What does a Construction Estimator do?

Top 10 Construction Estimator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Construction Estimators today.

1. Certified Professional Estimator (CPE)

Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) is a professional designation for individuals who are experienced in the field of cost estimating. The certification is offered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE). It is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of cost estimating.

The CPE program consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral interview. The written exam covers topics such as cost estimating principles, techniques, practices, and methods; project management; risk analysis; and software applications. The oral interview assesses the candidate’s communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and ability to work under pressure.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the CPE program. In order to qualify for the program, applicants must have at least 5 years of experience in cost estimating or related fields. They must also submit references from employers or other professionals who can attest to their qualifications and experience.

The cost of obtaining the CPE designation varies depending on whether you take the online or classroom version of the program. The online version costs $595 while the classroom version costs $895.

2. Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA)

Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of cost estimating.

The CCEA certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as cost estimating principles, methods, and techniques; cost analysis; project management; risk management; and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered online.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in cost estimating or related fields. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements, including having completed at least 30 semester hours of college-level coursework in business administration, economics, accounting, engineering, mathematics, or a related field.

The CCEA certification process typically takes four to six weeks to complete. To apply for the certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of work experience. The fee for the CCEA certification is $250 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

3. Construction Estimating Professional (CEP)

Construction Estimating Professional (CEP) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the field of construction estimating. The CEP certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that tests knowledge in areas such as estimating principles, cost containment, project management, and risk assessment.

It typically takes around six months for an individual to complete the CEP certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an approved course in construction estimating, pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher, and submit two letters of recommendation from professionals in the industry.

To get started on the CEP certification process, applicants must first apply online at ASPE's website. As part of the application process, they must provide proof of their educational background and professional experience. Applicants must also pay an application fee of $100. Once accepted into the program, they will be required to pay an additional fee for their course materials and exam fees.

The total cost for obtaining CEP certification can range from $500 to $1,500 depending on whether you take a course or study independently. This includes all fees associated with taking the exam as well as any additional materials needed to prepare for it.

4. American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)

The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) is a professional organization that provides education, certification, and resources to individuals who work in the construction estimating industry. ASPE was founded in 1966 and has since grown to over 8,000 members worldwide.

To become an ASPE member, an individual must be employed as an estimator or related field for at least two years. The applicant must also have a minimum of two years of college-level coursework in construction-related subjects or equivalent experience. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by the ASPE Certification Board to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field.

It typically takes several months to complete the application process and prepare for the exam. During this time, applicants should review all materials provided by ASPE and familiarize themselves with the topics covered on the exam. Once all requirements have been met, applicants can register for the exam and schedule a date to take it.

The cost of membership varies depending on individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it costs around $300-$400 to join ASPE as a full member and $100-$200 for associate memberships. Additional fees may apply for those taking the certification exam or attending conferences or other events hosted by ASPE.

In addition to providing educational resources and certifications, ASPE also offers networking opportunities with other professionals in the construction estimating industry as well as discounts on products and services from various vendors.

5. National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) Certified Estimator

The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) Certified Estimator is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to accurately estimate construction costs. The certification is based on the NIBS Cost Estimating Body of Knowledge (CEBOK), which outlines the core competencies required for successful cost estimating.

To obtain the NIBS Certified Estimator credential, candidates must successfully complete an online exam that covers topics such as cost estimating principles and processes, project management, cost control, and legal considerations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must also have at least three years of experience in construction cost estimating or related fields.

The fee for taking the NIBS Certified Estimator exam is $250 USD. Once certified, renewal fees are due every two years at a cost of $100 USD.

6. Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEI) Certified Cost Engineer

The Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEI) Certified Cost Engineer is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and experience of cost engineers. It is designed to provide a global standard of excellence in cost engineering and to recognize those who have achieved it.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria including having at least five years of experience in cost engineering and passing an examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, estimating, scheduling, financial analysis, risk management, and other related areas.

The certification process takes approximately six months to complete. After completing the application process and submitting all required documents, applicants will be notified within two weeks if they are eligible to take the exam or not. If accepted, they will receive their study material and instructions on how to prepare for the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their certificate from AACEI.

The cost for becoming AACEI Certified Cost Engineer varies depending on the country where you are applying from. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for international applicants and $200 USD for domestic applicants.

7. American Institute of Constructors (AIC) Certified Construction Manager

The American Institute of Constructors (AIC) Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of experienced construction professionals. The CCM designation is recognized as the highest level of professional achievement in the construction industry.

To become an AIC Certified Construction Manager, you must have at least five years of full-time work experience in the construction industry. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project management, contract administration, estimating and scheduling, safety and risk management, and quality control.

In order to prepare for the exam, you can attend a CCM prep course offered by AIC or take online courses from other providers. Additionally, you may want to review relevant books and materials related to the topics covered on the exam.

The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD for members of AIC and $550 USD for non-members. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded your CCM designation and receive a certificate from AIC.

Overall, it typically takes between one to two years to complete all requirements necessary to obtain your CCM certification.

8. National Council for Public-Private Partnerships (NCPPP) Certified Project Manager

The National Council for Public-Private Partnerships (NCPPP) Certified Project Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of experienced project managers. It is an internationally recognized certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and tools of project management. The CPM designation demonstrates a commitment to excellence in project management and serves as evidence of an individual’s mastery of the discipline.

To become certified, applicants must complete a rigorous three-part examination process consisting of:

1. An online assessment covering topics such as project planning & scheduling, risk management, cost estimation & control, quality assurance & control, and communication & stakeholder engagement;

2. A practical application exercise demonstrating their ability to apply the concepts learned in the online assessment; and

3. An oral interview with a panel of experts to assess their knowledge and experience in managing projects.

The entire process typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on an applicant’s availability and commitment level.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NCPPP. Non-members must pay an application fee of $500 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams or attending training sessions. Members receive discounted rates on all services provided by NCPPP including certification fees.

9. Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA) Certified Property Manager

The Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA) Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation is a professional certification program for property managers who work in the commercial real estate industry. The CPM certification is the most widely recognized credential for property managers, and it signifies a high level of expertise and professionalism.

The CPM program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. To become certified as a CPM, applicants must complete all three levels within five years. Each level requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as tenant relations, financial management, legal issues, operations management, and marketing strategies.

To get started on the path to becoming a CPM, applicants must first join BOMA International as a member by paying an annual fee. After joining BOMA International, applicants can begin taking courses through an approved education provider or attend BOMA’s Annual Conference & Expo to earn credits towards their certification. Once all three levels are completed successfully, applicants must submit an application for review and pay an additional fee to become certified as a CPM.

The cost of becoming a BOMA Certified Property Manager varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not you attend the Annual Conference & Expo. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 to become certified as a CPM depending on your individual circumstances.

10. American Society of Professional Quantity Surveyors (ASPQS) Accredited Quantity Surveyor

The American Society of Professional Quantity Surveyors (ASPQS) is a professional organization that provides accreditation to quantity surveyors. A quantity surveyor is a professional who specializes in the measurement and estimation of construction costs, including labor and materials.

In order to become an ASPQS Accredited Quantity Surveyor, applicants must have at least three years of experience as a practicing quantity surveyor and have passed the ASPQS Accreditation Exam. The exam covers topics such as contract management, cost control, estimating, financial analysis, project management, and more.

The process of becoming an ASPQS Accredited Quantity Surveyor typically takes about six months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application to the ASPQS for review. Once approved, applicants can then register for the Accreditation Exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and lasts approximately two hours. After passing the exam, applicants are officially accredited by the ASPQS.

The cost for becoming an ASPQS Accredited Quantity Surveyor varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In the United States, it typically costs around $750 USD for the application fee and $500 USD for the exam fee.

Do You Really Need a Construction Estimator Certificate?

When it comes to the construction industry, having a certification can help advance your career and open up more job opportunities. A Construction Estimator Certificate is one such certification that can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your knowledge of the field.

A Construction Estimator Certificate provides potential employers with proof of your qualifications in the estimation and costing of construction projects. It shows that you are knowledgeable about the principles of planning, scheduling, budgeting, estimating costs, and applying project cost controls. It also proves that you have experience in using software for estimating purposes, including spreadsheets, databases and project management systems. Having this certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary skills to handle all aspects of construction projects from start to finish.

Although having a Construction Estimator Certificate can certainly be beneficial to your career prospects, it may not be absolutely necessary depending on the type of job or company you are applying for. In some cases, a combination of related experience and education may be sufficient for certain positions. For example, if you already have a degree in engineering or architecture or some other related field with several years’ experience in construction estimating, then a certificate may not be required to get hired as an estimator at certain companies. However, if you are looking for more advanced positions within the industry then having this certification will likely give you an edge over other candidates who do not possess one.

In conclusion, although having a Construction Estimator Certificate is not always essential for getting a job in the construction industry, it can give you an advantage over other applicants who lack this qualification. Furthermore, it serves as proof that you have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience related to all aspects of construction estimation which employers value highly when making hiring decisions.

Related: Construction Estimator Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Estimator Certifications

1. What is a Construction Estimator Certification?

Answer: A Construction Estimator Certification is a professional certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of an individual in construction estimating. It is issued by an independent organization, such as the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).

2. What are the benefits of having a Construction Estimator Certification?

Answer: Having a Construction Estimator Certification can help to demonstrate your competence and expertise in the field, as well as provide you with access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and job opportunities.

3. How do I get certified as a Construction Estimator?

Answer: To become certified as a Construction Estimator, you must pass an exam administered by an independent organization, such as ASPE. You will also need to have relevant work experience and education in the field.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time frame for getting certified depends on the specific certification program you choose, but typically it can take anywhere from several months up to two years.

5. Are there any special requirements for getting certified?

Answer: Yes, depending on which certification program you choose there may be certain requirements that need to be met before taking the exam or obtaining certification. Requirements can include relevant work experience, educational coursework, or even passing additional tests or exams related to the field of construction estimation.