Top 12 Construction Estimator Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the dynamic field of construction, an estimator plays a pivotal role in determining project feasibility and success. A well-crafted resume highlighting key construction estimator skills can significantly enhance your job prospects by showcasing your ability to accurately forecast project costs and timelines.

Construction Estimator Skills

1. AutoCAD
2. Revit
3. Bluebeam
4. On-Screen Takeoff
5. Excel
6. Procore
7. Timberline
8. BIM
9. Primavera P6
10. CostX
11. RSMeans
12. SketchUp

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software used extensively by construction estimators for creating detailed 2D and 3D drawings and models of construction projects, facilitating accurate material and cost estimation.

Why It's Important

AutoCAD is crucial for a Construction Estimator because it allows for precise and efficient creation, modification, and analysis of detailed 2D and 3D design models, facilitating accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimations.

How to Improve AutoCAD Skills

Improving your AutoCAD skills as a Construction Estimator involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and integrating with estimating software. Here are concise tips:

1. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts: Mastering AutoCAD keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your drawing and editing process. Autodesk provides a comprehensive list of shortcuts.

2. Customize AutoCAD Workspace: Tailor your workspace by customizing toolbars and commands for easier access to frequently used functions. This guide from Autodesk can help.

3. Use External Reference Files (Xrefs): Link external reference drawings instead of inserting them to keep your AutoCAD files lightweight and more manageable. Learn more about Xrefs from this Autodesk tutorial.

4. Integrate AutoCAD with Estimating Software: Use plugins or built-in features to connect AutoCAD with estimating software like PlanSwift or Bluebeam. This integration can streamline the takeoff and estimation process. Check out PlanSwift's integration guide for more details.

5. Stay Updated and Train Continuously: AutoCAD is constantly being updated with new features and tools. Engage in continuous learning through Autodesk's official training and certification programs to stay ahead.

6. Leverage AutoCAD Blocks and Tool Palettes: Create and use blocks for common items and tool palettes for quick access to your most used tools, enhancing drawing speed and consistency. Autodesk offers a tutorial on creating and using blocks.

By focusing on these areas, a Construction Estimator can significantly improve their efficiency and accuracy in AutoCAD, leading to better project outcomes.

How to Display AutoCAD Skills on Your Resume

2. Revit

Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software used for creating detailed 3D models of buildings, enabling construction estimators to accurately calculate materials, costs, and construction schedules by extracting precise information directly from the designs.

Why It's Important

Revit is important for a Construction Estimator because it enables precise 3D modeling of buildings, facilitating accurate quantity takeoffs, material estimations, and cost forecasting, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of construction cost estimation.

How to Improve Revit Skills

Improving Revit for a Construction Estimator involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration. Here's a very short and concise guide:

1. Utilize Plugins and Add-ons: Integrate cost estimating plugins like CostX or Sigma Estimates to seamlessly link designs with cost data.

2. Leverage Dynamo for Automation: Use Dynamo to automate repetitive tasks, such as quantity takeoffs, enhancing accuracy and saving time.

3. Implement BIM 360: Adopt BIM 360 for cloud-based collaboration, allowing real-time access to models and documents, facilitating better communication with the project team.

4. Standardize Templates and Libraries: Develop and use standardized estimating templates and cost libraries within Revit to ensure consistency across projects.

5. Attend Training and Webinars: Regularly participate in Autodesk training and webinars to stay updated on the latest features and best practices.

6. Join Revit Communities: Engage with Revit forums and communities for tips, advice, and shared experiences on improving estimation processes.

By focusing on these areas, a Construction Estimator can significantly enhance their efficiency and accuracy in cost estimation with Revit.

How to Display Revit Skills on Your Resume

3. Bluebeam

Bluebeam is a software application designed for creating, editing, marking up, collaborating on, and sharing construction documents, specifically tailored to meet the needs of construction estimators for accurate project bidding and cost management.

Why It's Important

Bluebeam is crucial for a Construction Estimator as it streamlines the estimation process by providing powerful PDF markup, editing, and collaboration tools, enabling accurate takeoffs, improved bid preparation, and enhanced communication with project teams.

How to Improve Bluebeam Skills

To enhance your Bluebeam experience as a Construction Estimator, consider the following succinct strategies:

1. Customize Tool Sets: Tailor your tool sets specifically for estimating tasks to streamline your workflow. Bluebeam Tool Sets Guide.

2. Use Layers: Utilize layers to organize your markups by different categories, making it easier to manage and review your estimates. Bluebeam Layers Tutorial.

3. Leverage the Markups List: Use the Markups List for detailed tracking and easy modification of all your annotations, facilitating a more efficient estimation process. Managing Markups.

4. Templates and Tool Chest: Create and save custom templates and tool sets in the Tool Chest for repetitive tasks, ensuring consistency and saving time on similar projects. Tool Chest Guide.

5. Integrate with Estimating Software: Link Bluebeam with your estimating software, if compatible, to streamline the transfer of measured quantities and annotations directly into your estimating tool. Bluebeam Integrations.

6. Educate Through Bluebeam University: Enhance your proficiency by taking targeted courses designed for construction professionals on Bluebeam University. Bluebeam University.

Implementing these strategies will help you harness the full potential of Bluebeam for construction estimating, making your process more efficient and accurate.

How to Display Bluebeam Skills on Your Resume

4. On-Screen Takeoff

On-Screen Takeoff is a digital software tool designed for construction estimators that facilitates the process of calculating materials, labor, and costs by allowing users to perform measurements and takeoffs directly from digital blueprints or construction plans on their computer screens.

Why It's Important

On-Screen Takeoff is crucial for a Construction Estimator as it enhances accuracy and efficiency in measuring and quantifying materials directly from digital plans, reducing errors and saving time in the bidding process.

How to Improve On-Screen Takeoff Skills

Improving your proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff (OST) as a Construction Estimator involves focusing on mastering the software's features, customizing your workflow to enhance efficiency, and continuously updating your skills with the latest tools and techniques. Here are concise steps to achieve this:

1. Learn the Basics Thoroughly: Start with the foundational features of OST. Understand how to navigate the interface, create new projects, and utilize basic measurement tools. Resources such as the OST User Guides provide a good starting point.

2. Customize Your Toolset: Tailor the software settings and tool preferences to suit your specific estimating needs. This includes creating custom scales, using layers effectively, and setting up personalized templates for frequent project types. The Customization Tips can offer guidance on making OST work better for you.

3. Master Advanced Features: Delve into more sophisticated functionalities like the use of assemblies for automating repetitive tasks, advanced area and volume calculations, and the integration of OST with estimating software. Participate in Advanced Webinars offered by ConstructConnect for in-depth learning.

4. Practice Regularly: Like any software, proficiency in OST comes with practice. Set aside time to work on sample projects or past estimates to refine your skills. Practicing will help you become faster and more accurate in your takeoffs.

5. Stay Updated: The software is regularly updated with new features and improvements. Stay informed about these updates and learn how to utilize them by visiting the OST Updates page.

6. Seek Feedback and Collaborate: Share your estimates with peers and seek feedback on your use of OST. Collaboration can introduce new techniques and perspectives that can refine your approach and efficiency.

7. Utilize Support and Community Resources: Take advantage of the support offered by ConstructConnect, including tutorials, forums, and customer support for troubleshooting or learning tips. The OST Community Forum is a valuable resource for advice and sharing best practices.

By systematically enhancing your skills and adapting OST to your workflow, you'll significantly improve your efficiency and accuracy as a Construction Estimator.

How to Display On-Screen Takeoff Skills on Your Resume

5. Excel

Excel is a spreadsheet program used for data organization, calculation, and analysis, essential for a Construction Estimator for estimating costs, budgeting, and project planning.

Why It's Important

Excel is crucial for a Construction Estimator as it enables efficient organization and analysis of project costs, materials, and labor estimates, facilitating accurate budgeting and financial planning.

How to Improve Excel Skills

Improving your Excel skills as a Construction Estimator involves mastering techniques that streamline project estimation, budgeting, and financial analysis. Focus on the following key areas:

1. Advanced Formulas: Understand complex functions (like VLOOKUP, INDEX, MATCH, and SUMIFS) for efficient data manipulation. ExcelJet's Function Guide is a great resource.

2. PivotTables: Master PivotTables for quick data analysis and summarizing vast amounts of information. Microsoft's PivotTable Guide offers comprehensive insights.

3. Data Visualization: Enhance reports with charts and graphs to represent cost, timelines, and resources visually. Excel's Chart Tutorials can help you get started.

4. Conditional Formatting: Use conditional formatting to highlight key data points, like budget overruns or delays. Excel's Conditional Formatting guide explains it well.

5. Macro & VBA: Automate repetitive tasks and customize your project estimation processes with macros and VBA scripting. Excel Macro & VBA Guide introduces these concepts.

6. Template Creation: Create custom templates for your estimation work to ensure consistency across projects. Excel's Templates Guide can show you how.

7. Power Query: Use Power Query for advanced data gathering and transformation from various sources. Microsoft's Power Query Guide is an essential read.

8. Learning and Continuous Improvement: Stay updated with the latest Excel features and best practices through continuous learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly enhance your Excel skills, making your work as a Construction Estimator more efficient, accurate, and impactful.

How to Display Excel Skills on Your Resume

6. Procore

Procore is a cloud-based construction management software designed to streamline project management, documentation, and communication, allowing construction estimators to accurately estimate costs, manage budgets, and collaborate effectively with team members.

Why It's Important

Procore is important for a Construction Estimator as it centralizes project data, streamlines communication, and enhances accuracy in cost estimations, ultimately leading to more efficient project planning and execution.

How to Improve Procore Skills

To enhance Procore for a Construction Estimator, focus on these key areas:

1. Integration with Estimation Software: Ensure Procore integrates seamlessly with leading estimation software (Sage, ProEst) for real-time data exchange, reducing manual entry errors.

2. Customizable Reporting Tools: Enhance Procore's reporting capabilities to allow estimators to create custom reports (Power BI), ensuring critical data is easily accessible and understandable.

3. Enhanced Mobile Access: Improve mobile app features for estimators on-site, allowing for quick adjustments and access to estimation data (Procore Mobile).

4. Training and Resources: Provide specialized training resources focused on estimation processes within Procore, ensuring estimators can leverage all available tools effectively (Procore Learning Center).

5. Feedback Loop: Establish a direct feedback loop with estimators to continually update and improve features based on user experience (Procore Community).

Implementing these enhancements will significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of construction estimators using Procore.

How to Display Procore Skills on Your Resume

7. Timberline

In the context of a Construction Estimator, Timberline refers to a software application used for construction estimating and project management, facilitating accurate cost estimations, budgeting, and control throughout the construction process.

Why It's Important

Timberline is important for a Construction Estimator because it provides accurate and efficient cost estimating and project management capabilities, enabling precise budgeting, forecasting, and tracking of construction projects.

How to Improve Timberline Skills

Improving your efficiency with Timberline, now known as Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, requires a combination of mastering software functionalities, leveraging training resources, and integrating best practices in construction estimation. Here are concise steps and resources for a Construction Estimator:

1. Learn the Basics: Start with Sage University (SageU), which offers comprehensive training courses on Sage 300 CRE.

2. Utilize Templates and Libraries: Customize and use estimation templates and cost databases to speed up your process. This feature saves time on repetitive tasks.

3. Software Integration: Integrate with other software tools used in your workflow for seamless data transfer. Sage has a marketplace with compatible applications.

4. Practice Regular Data Review: Regularly update and review your data for accuracy. Use the reporting tools within Sage 300 CRE to analyze and adjust estimates.

5. Join User Groups: Participate in Sage City Community (Sage City) for tips, insights, and networking with other professionals.

6. Continuous Learning: Keep abreast of new features and best practices through webinars, online forums, and Sage's knowledgebase.

7. Feedback Loop: Implement a feedback loop with your team to identify what works and what needs improvement in your estimating process.

Incorporating these steps will enhance your proficiency and efficiency with Timberline/Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, making your construction estimating more accurate and time-effective.

How to Display Timberline Skills on Your Resume

8. BIM

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility, providing a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility, forming a reliable basis for decisions during its lifecycle from inception onward. For a Construction Estimator, BIM facilitates accurate and efficient cost estimation by integrating detailed information about materials, quantities, and spatial relationships.

Why It's Important

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is crucial for a Construction Estimator because it provides a detailed digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a project, enabling accurate and efficient cost estimation, material quantification, and risk assessment, thereby improving decision-making and reducing the likelihood of budget overruns.

How to Improve BIM Skills

Improving Building Information Modeling (BIM) for a Construction Estimator involves several key steps to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration:

1. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest BIM technologies and methodologies through online courses and webinars (Autodesk University).

2. Leverage BIM Software Tools: Utilize advanced BIM estimating tools like Revit and Navisworks for more precise cost estimations (Autodesk Revit).

3. Integrate with Estimating Software: Connect BIM models with estimating software (e.g., CostX, ProEst) for real-time cost data and streamlined workflows (Exactal CostX).

4. Collaborate Closely with Design Teams: Work closely with architects and engineers to ensure estimations are based on the latest model iterations and design changes.

5. Standardize BIM Processes: Develop and follow standardized BIM procedures across projects to ensure consistency and reliability in estimations.

6. Data Accuracy and Validation: Regularly check and validate the BIM model data for accuracy, ensuring that the quantities and specifications match the project requirements.

7. Embrace BIM Training: Encourage team members to undergo BIM training to enhance their understanding and capabilities (BIM Training).

8. Feedback Loop: Create a system for feedback on estimations to continuously refine and improve the BIM estimating process.

By focusing on these areas, a Construction Estimator can significantly enhance their BIM capabilities, leading to more accurate and efficient project estimations.

How to Display BIM Skills on Your Resume

9. Primavera P6

Primavera P6 is a comprehensive, multi-project planning and control software, widely used in the construction industry for scheduling, managing, and estimating project costs and timelines, enabling construction estimators to plan, budget, and monitor projects efficiently.

Why It's Important

Primavera P6 is crucial for a Construction Estimator as it enables detailed project scheduling and cost estimation, facilitating accurate budget forecasting and resource allocation, essential for optimizing project efficiency and profitability.

How to Improve Primavera P6 Skills

Improving your skills in Primavera P6 as a Construction Estimator involves a few focused strategies. Here's a concise guide:

1. Get Certified: Obtain certification through Oracle's official Primavera P6 training. This enhances your credibility and understanding of the software.

2. Practice Regularly: The more you use Primavera P6, the more proficient you become. Set aside time to explore its features beyond your daily tasks.

3. Online Tutorials and Webinars: Platforms like Plan Academy offer in-depth tutorials and webinars tailored to construction estimators.

4. Join User Groups: Engage with other professionals through forums and user groups like the Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM (Official Group) on LinkedIn. Sharing experiences can provide new insights and solutions.

5. Stay Updated: Primavera P6 receives regular updates that can introduce new features or change existing ones. Keep your software updated and review the Oracle Cloud Release Readiness for the latest information.

6. Apply It to Real-World Scenarios: Try to apply your P6 skills to real-world scenarios. This can include volunteer projects or simulations that mimic actual construction projects.

By following these steps and actively seeking new knowledge, you can significantly improve your proficiency in Primavera P6 as a Construction Estimator.

How to Display Primavera P6 Skills on Your Resume

10. CostX

CostX is a construction estimating software that allows construction estimators to perform takeoffs and calculate costs efficiently by automating the measurement of quantities from digital drawings and facilitating the preparation of detailed estimates, comparisons, and reports.

Why It's Important

CostX is important for a Construction Estimator as it provides an integrated platform for accurate and efficient quantity takeoffs and cost estimation, streamlining the bidding process and enhancing project profitability.

How to Improve CostX Skills

Improving your proficiency with CostX, a leading construction estimating software, involves honing skills in various functionalities that streamline the estimation process. Here's a concise guide:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure a solid understanding of CostX's core features, including measurement tools and workbooks. The official CostX training provides a good starting point.

2. Learn Advanced Features: Dive into more complex functionalities like BIM integration and report customization. Use CostX's advanced tutorials for in-depth learning.

3. Customize Your Workspace: Tailor the CostX interface and templates to suit your workflow for efficiency. The user guide offers insights on customization.

4. Stay Updated: CostX regularly updates its software. Keep abreast of new features and improvements through the CostX blog.

5. Practice Regularly: Apply your skills on varied projects to become proficient. Experimenting with different types of estimates can reveal new tips and tricks.

6. Join User Groups: Engage with other CostX users through forums or groups such as LinkedIn CostX Professionals. Sharing experiences can offer new perspectives and solutions.

7. Attend CostX Webinars: Participate in webinars hosted by CostX experts to learn about the latest best practices and industry trends.

By following these steps and actively seeking out resources to expand your knowledge, you can significantly improve your proficiency with CostX, leading to more accurate and efficient construction estimates.

How to Display CostX Skills on Your Resume

11. RSMeans

RSMeans is a comprehensive database used by construction estimators to access current, accurate cost information for materials, labor, and equipment, aiding in the preparation of detailed and reliable construction cost estimates.

Why It's Important

RSMeans is important for a Construction Estimator because it provides a comprehensive and up-to-date database of construction costs, materials, labor rates, and productivity standards, facilitating accurate and reliable project budgeting and bidding.

How to Improve RSMeans Skills

Improving your usage of RSMeans for construction estimation involves enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and application of its data. Here are concise steps to achieve this:

1. Stay Updated: Regularly update your RSMeans data to ensure you're using the most current cost information. Costs can fluctuate, and using outdated data can lead to inaccurate estimates.

2. Leverage Technology: Utilize software that integrates with RSMeans, such as Sage or ProEst, to streamline the estimation process and reduce manual entry errors.

3. Get Certified: Consider obtaining a certification in RSMeans from a reputable institution like Gordian’s RSMeans data training. This can deepen your understanding and improve your proficiency.

4. Use Historical Data: Compare RSMeans estimates with your project's actual costs to identify trends and make adjustments in future estimates. This practice will help refine your accuracy over time.

5. Customize Data: Adapt and modify RSMeans data to fit local conditions or specific project requirements. Adjustments may be necessary for labor rates, material costs, or unique project specifications.

6. Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay informed about industry trends and new estimation methodologies through resources like Construction Business Owner or ENR.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your capability in utilizing RSMeans data, leading to more accurate and reliable construction cost estimates.

How to Display RSMeans Skills on Your Resume

12. SketchUp

SketchUp is a 3D modeling software used in various industries, including construction, for creating, visualizing, and editing designs and plans, aiding estimators in accurately forecasting project costs and materials.

Why It's Important

SketchUp is important for a Construction Estimator because it provides a user-friendly platform for creating detailed 3D models of construction projects, enabling precise visualization and measurement, which aids in accurate material and cost estimation.

How to Improve SketchUp Skills

To enhance SketchUp for a Construction Estimator:

1. Learn Advanced Techniques: Master advanced SketchUp techniques to create more accurate and detailed models. SketchUp Campus is a great resource.
2. Utilize Extensions: Integrate extensions from the Extension Warehouse for estimating, such as Quantifier Pro or Estimator for SketchUp, to streamline material and cost estimation.
3. Implement BIM Tools: Use BIM tools like Trimble Connect to improve collaboration and access project information seamlessly.
4. Optimize Templates: Customize and optimize your SketchUp templates with layers and styles relevant to construction estimating to save time.
5. Attend Workshops: Regularly attend workshops or webinars focused on construction estimating with SketchUp. SketchUp’s Events Page often lists relevant training sessions.
6. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice with real-life projects improves speed and accuracy in creating estimates.

Incorporating these strategies can significantly enhance your efficiency and accuracy as a Construction Estimator using SketchUp.

How to Display SketchUp Skills on Your Resume