Cost Estimator
The job of a cost estimator is one of the most important jobs in the business field. They determine various costs for ventures that pertain to the business they work for. These cost figures can be for virtually any type of business project including construction costs for new buildings, project costs for business projects and obtaining estimates for many different types of ventures. This position requires the cost estimator to earn a degree in business and they must also have experience in the business field. The degree earned can be in the form of either a Bachelors degree or a Masters degree, both of which can be earned by going back to college through one of the best online colleges where you can earn your degree completely online through distance learning. Once you have attained the required experience and degree, you can expect a starting salary in the $30,000 to $40,000 range and up to $80,000 for the more experienced cost estimator.
Job Description
The job description for the cost estimator depends greatly on the company they work for. While some may be in charge of receiving estimates and going over blueprints for new construction projects for the company, they will also be in charge of ensuring the construction company they are working with provides the best quality at a reasonable price. Others may be working with various vendors to determine the total cost of various types of business ventures such as promoting new products. Some may also have the duty of preparing cost expenditure reports and statements in order to keep the company out of debt and holding onto a profit. All of these types of careers work for all different types of corporations including large and small companies and everything in between. Most of the cost estimators also prepare estimates for various management functions including human resources, pay raises and other employee related matters.
The job outlook for the cost estimator is a good one. This top career is predicted to grow substantially over the next few years, offering more job opportunities, better pay and more benefits. With this type of job outlook combined with a competitive salary, your degree program is sure to pay off in the long run when everyone else is out looking for a job in a tough economy, this job is always there and with plenty of opportunities.
Required Degree and Skills
The standard required degree for cost estimators is a Bachelors degree in business. This degree should also provide you with knowledge in mathematics as well as computers and processing. This job does require extensive mathematical knowledge since most of the work performed is pursuant to cost and profit margins. The Bachelors degree program will take you about four years to complete unless you find one of the numerous online colleges that offer an accelerated program where you can earn your degree in about 3 ½ years. In addition, when you choose to go back to college after you earn your Bachelors degree, you can earn your online Masters degree which will provide you with more experience, better job opportunities and a higher salary. The Masters degree program, or the MBA if you major in business, generally takes an additional two years, however; once again if you go through an accelerated program, you may earn this top degree in 1 ½ years.
