Top 11 Estimator Certifications

Certifications are important for estimators in the job market because they provide employers with evidence of an individual’s knowledge and skills. Having a certification can help to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary qualifications and experience to succeed in a particular role. It can also help to set them apart from other applicants and give them a competitive edge when it comes to securing a job. Additionally, certifications provide estimators with opportunities for professional development, as they show that they have taken the time and effort to pursue further training in their field.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Estimators, and explain how obtaining these certifications can help advance their career.

What are Estimator Certifications?

Estimator certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of estimating. Estimator certification provides a competitive edge for those seeking employment in the construction industry, as it is becoming increasingly required by employers. It is also beneficial for estimators looking to further their career in the field, as it can provide them with additional recognition from peers and employers alike.

By obtaining estimator certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to the profession and gain access to resources such as industry best practices, research, training materials, and networking opportunities. Certification also requires regular continuing education to ensure that certified estimators remain up-to-date on industry trends and technologies. This helps them stay on top of their game when it comes to providing accurate estimates for projects. Additionally, many organizations offer discounts on insurance costs for those who have obtained estimator certification.

Overall, estimator certification serves as an invaluable tool that helps individuals stand out in a crowded job market while ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to be successful in their chosen profession.

Pro Tip: When preparing for an estimator certification exam, focus on understanding the principles behind the process rather than memorizing specific formulas and processes. Having a fundamental knowledge of estimating will help you better understand the material and increase your chances of passing the exam.

Related: What does an Estimator do?

Top 11 Estimator Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Estimator (CPE)

Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise and experience of individuals who are involved in estimating construction costs. The CPE program is administered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).

The CPE program requires applicants to have a minimum of five years of experience in construction estimating, including at least three years in a lead role. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project management, cost estimating principles, and quantity takeoff procedures.

To become certified, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their experience and education. Once approved, applicants can take the exam either online or in-person at one of ASPE’s testing centers. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the type of membership you choose. For non-members, the fee is $350; for members, it is $250; and for student members, it is $150.

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). The CCEA certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in cost estimating and analysis.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for the CCEA certification. To become certified, applicants must pass a written exam, demonstrate experience in cost estimating and analysis, and submit three letters of recommendation from their employers or colleagues. Applicants must also complete continuing education credits every two years to maintain their certification.

The cost to apply for the CCEA certification is $225 USD. This fee covers the application fee, processing fees, and exam fees.

In addition to the CCEA certification, ASPE offers other certifications related to cost estimating such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), Certified Cost Engineer (CCE), and Certified Quantity Surveyor (CQS).

3. Certified Construction Estimator (CCE)

Certified Construction Estimator (CCE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of construction estimators. The CCE certification is offered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE), an international organization dedicated to promoting excellence in construction estimating.

The CCE certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as cost estimating, scheduling, project management, and risk management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least five years of experience in construction estimating or related fields in order to qualify for the CCE certification.

In order to obtain the CCE certification, applicants must submit an application form along with the required documentation and fees. The fee for the CCE certification is $400 USD and must be paid upon submission of the application form. Once approved, applicants will receive their official CCE certificate within six weeks.

The CCE certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued and can be renewed every three years by submitting a renewal form along with any applicable fees. Renewal fees are typically lower than initial application fees, but vary depending on your membership status with ASPE.

4. American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) Certification

The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize estimators who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the field. It is the only nationally recognized certification program for estimators and is highly respected among employers and peers.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field and pass an exam administered by ASPE. The exam covers topics such as estimating techniques, construction processes, materials management, project scheduling, cost control, and more. Applicants must also complete a portfolio review that demonstrates their knowledge and experience in the field.

The entire process typically takes three to six months, depending on how quickly all requirements are met. The cost of the certification process varies based on the type of membership chosen (individual or corporate). Individual memberships start at $395 per year and corporate memberships start at $2,500 per year.

Once certified, estimators can use the ASPE logo on their business cards and websites to show their commitment to professional excellence in the field. They will also be eligible for discounts on continuing education courses offered through ASPE.

5. Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEI) Certification

The Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACEI) is a professional organization that provides certification to individuals in the field of cost engineering. AACEI certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to excellence and proficiency in cost engineering and cost management.

AACEI certification is available in three levels: Certified Cost Engineer (CCE), Certified Cost Consultant (CCC), and Certified Cost Technician (CCT). Each level requires different experience, education, and examination requirements. The CCE certification requires at least five years of professional experience, a four-year degree from an accredited college or university, and passing the CCE exam. The CCC certification requires at least eight years of professional experience, a four-year degree from an accredited college or university, and passing the CCC exam. The CCT certification requires at least two years of professional experience, a two-year degree from an accredited college or university, and passing the CCT exam.

The process to obtain AACEI certification can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on individual circumstances. To begin the process individuals must first submit an application form along with their transcripts and other supporting documents such as work experience letters. Once all documents have been received by AACEI they will review them for accuracy before approving applicants for testing. After approval applicants will be able to register for their chosen exam which must be taken within six months of registration. Upon successful completion of the exam applicants will receive their certificate within two weeks.

The cost to obtain AACEI certification varies depending on the level being pursued but generally ranges from $300-$500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam.

6. Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) Certification

The Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of construction documents and specifications. It offers a certification program that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and expertise in writing construction documents.

To get CSI Certification, you must first complete an application process that includes a written exam and a practical project. The written exam tests your knowledge of the fundamentals of construction documents, including topics such as building codes, legal requirements, materials selection, and more. The practical project requires you to develop a set of construction documents for a specific project.

The certification process typically takes around six months from start to finish. You can expect to spend several hours studying for the written exam and completing the practical project. The cost of CSI Certification varies depending on which level you are seeking (there are three levels: Certified Construction Document Technologist (CCDT), Certified Construction Specifier (CCS), and Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA)). Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$600 USD for each level.

Once you have obtained your certification, it is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

7. Certified Quantity Surveyor (CQS)

A Certified Quantity Surveyor (CQS) is a professional who specializes in the measurement, valuation, and cost control of construction projects. They are responsible for estimating the cost of materials, labor, and other resources needed to complete a project. CQSs also provide advice on how best to manage costs throughout the life cycle of a project.

In order to become certified as a CQS, applicants must have at least five years of experience in quantity surveying and pass the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) assessment. The assessment consists of three parts: an online multiple choice exam, an oral examination, and a practical assessment. The entire process takes approximately six months to complete.

The cost of becoming certified as a CQS varies depending on the country where you are taking the assessment. In general, it can range from several hundred pounds up to several thousand pounds.

Once certified, CQSs can join professional organizations such as RICS which offer additional benefits such as access to industry events and networking opportunities.

8. National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) Certification

The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) is a non-profit organization that provides certification programs for professionals in the building industry. NIBS certifications are designed to recognize and promote the highest levels of professional excellence in the construction industry.

To receive NIBS certification, applicants must complete an extensive application process, which includes submitting proof of experience, education, and training. The application process can take up to six months to complete. Once approved, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam and submit to a background check before they can be certified by NIBS.

In order to get NIBS certification, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the organization. These include having at least two years of experience in the construction industry and a minimum of 120 hours of education or training related to building sciences. Applicants must also have a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID card.

The cost for NIBS certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1000 for an individual certification, while group certifications may cost more. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or submitting additional documentation for review.

Overall, obtaining an NIBS certification is an important step toward achieving professional excellence in the construction industry. It is worth noting that having this type of certification can help individuals stand out from their peers when applying for jobs or promotions within their field.

9. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of project management.

The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively manage projects, as well as the ability to apply best practices in various areas such as cost estimation, risk management, scheduling, and quality assurance.

It typically takes between three and six months to prepare for the PMP exam. The preparation process includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, and completing a minimum of 35 hours of formal project management education.

To get your PMP certification, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements set by PMI and submit an application to take the exam. Once your application is approved, you can register for and take the exam at any authorized testing center. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be answered within four hours.

The cost of getting your PMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. If you are not a member, it will cost $555 USD for the application fee plus $405 USD for the exam fee; if you are a member it will cost $405 USD for the application fee plus $375 USD for the exam fee.

10. Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS)

Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist (CRIS) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have a comprehensive understanding of construction risk management, insurance, and related topics. The CRIS designation is offered by the American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (AICPCU).

To earn the CRIS designation, candidates must complete three courses and pass corresponding exams. The courses are Construction Risk Management, Construction Insurance Principles and Practices, and Construction Contract Law. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time.

The cost to obtain the CRIS designation varies depending on the method you choose to pursue it. If you take the courses online through AICPCU, it will cost $1,595 for all three courses plus an additional $150 for each exam. Alternatively, you can take the courses in-person from an approved instructor at a college or university; however, this option may be more expensive as it includes tuition fees in addition to exam fees.

Overall, obtaining the CRIS designation typically takes between 6-12 months depending on how quickly you complete the required coursework and exams.

11. Building Information Modeling Professional (BIM Pro)

Building Information Modeling Professional (BIM Pro) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and processes. The BIM Pro certification is offered through Autodesk, the leading provider of 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software.

The BIM Pro certification is an online exam-based program that tests a candidate’s understanding of BIM concepts, principles, and best practices. To become certified as a BIM Pro, candidates must pass a series of exams covering topics such as project management, workflow optimization, data exchange standards, and more.

The BIM Pro certification program typically takes around 6 months to complete depending on the individual's learning pace. Candidates must first complete an online application process before taking the exams. After passing all three exams with a score of 70% or higher, they will be eligible to receive their official BIM Pro certification from Autodesk.

The cost for the BIM Pro Certification Program varies depending on the country and region you are located in. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD for the entire program including all three exams and registration fees.

Do You Really Need a Estimator Certificate?

Estimator certificates can be beneficial for those who are looking to advance their careers in the construction industry. For example, obtaining a certificate may prove that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to do accurate estimating work. Additionally, employers may require estimators to have a specific level of certification in order to qualify for certain positions.

However, it is important to note that having an estimator certificate does not guarantee success in the field. In fact, many successful estimators do not have any formal certification at all. Ultimately, having a basic understanding of math and construction principles is essential for any estimator, regardless of whether they hold a certificate or not.

In addition, it is important to consider the cost associated with obtaining an estimator certificate before making a decision. Depending on the program chosen, this could involve tuition fees as well as other expenses such as materials and travel costs. Thus, one should carefully weigh these costs against potential benefits before deciding if obtaining a certificate is worth it.

Overall, an estimator certificate can be beneficial for those looking to advance their careers in the construction industry but should not be seen as a requirement for success. Individuals should consider their own skills and abilities along with the cost of obtaining a certificate before making this decision.

Related: Estimator Resume Examples

FAQs About Estimator Certifications

1. What is an Estimator Certification?

Answer: An Estimator Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of construction estimators in the field. The certification validates an estimator’s expertise in cost estimating and provides employers with a reliable measure of an individual’s qualifications.

2. What are the benefits of getting certified as an Estimator?

Answer: Benefits of getting certified as an Estimator include increased job opportunities, higher pay, and improved credibility within the industry. Certified estimators also have access to exclusive resources such as networking events and industry-specific discounts on products and services.

3. How do I become an Estimator?

Answer: To become an Estimator, you must first complete a formal education program or relevant apprenticeship. After completing your training, you can apply for the necessary certifications to demonstrate your proficiency in the field.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an Estimator?

Answer: Yes, there are prerequisites for becoming certified as an Estimator. Generally, you must have at least two years of experience in the estimation field and pass a written exam to qualify for certification.

5. How often do I need to renew my Estimator Certification?

Answer: Generally, you will need to renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or taking a refresher exam if one is available from your certifying body.