Employer: PADCOM Design & Construction Management Services
Client: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) – Facilities Services Division
Division: Program Support Services
Location: Los Angeles County School Sites – Onsite
Schedule: Full-Time

About the Role

PADCOM Design & Construction Management Services is seeking a Junior Project Cost Estimator to support construction cost estimating and financial analysis across LAUSD facilities projects.

This role assists in developing independent cost estimates, evaluating contractor proposals, and supporting project teams with cost analysis and negotiations. The position plays a key role in ensuring accurate cost forecasting and maintaining financial accountability across projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare preliminary independent cost estimates for comparison with contractor and designer proposals.
• Assist in developing change order estimates to support Owner Authorized Representatives.
• Support price negotiations with contractors and project stakeholders.
• Prepare claim analysis and cost estimates.
• Develop detailed construction cost estimates based on drawings, specifications, and sketches.
• Review contractor claims and proposals to evaluate accuracy and validity.
• Conduct research on current labor and material costs.
• Compare independent estimates with contractor proposals to identify discrepancies.
• Develop scopes of work based on RFIs/RFCs and prepare independent cost estimates.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of full-time professional experience in construction estimating
• Experience with facility or school construction projects preferred
• Knowledge of local construction labor and material costs
• Experience developing estimates for change orders and scope modifications

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of construction estimating principles and cost analysis
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and scope documents
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to identify cost discrepancies and support negotiation strategies
• Strong research and fact-finding abilities

Work Conditions & Requirements

• Onsite position supporting active school construction projects
• May require coordination with multiple project teams and departments

Salary & Benefits

• Salary Range: Competitive, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Schedule: Full-Time
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, and professional development opportunities

Job Duration

• Start Date: ASAP
• Assignment End Date: September 30, 2027
• Position End Date: September 30, 2028

How to Apply

Submit the following through the PADCOM careers portal:

• Resume highlighting construction estimating experience
• Cover letter
• Certifications or licenses (if applicable)

👉 Apply through PADCOM Design & Construction Management Services Careers Page