What is construction estimating freelancer?
The practice of construction estimating is critically important for building organizations, as estimates anticipate the expense of building a physical structure. Construction estimating specialists must be as accurate as possible, as profit margins (the lifeblood of all contractors) are impacted if the estimate is off by the smallest amount.
How do you hire a construction estimating freelancer?
You can source construction estimating talent on Upwork by following these three steps:
- Write a project description. You’ll want to determine your scope of work and the skills and requirements you are looking for in a construction estimating freelancer.
- Post it on Upwork. Once you’ve written a project description, post it to Upwork. Simply follow the prompts to help you input the information you collected to scope out your project.
- Shortlist and interview construction estimating freelancers. Once the proposals start coming in, create a shortlist of the professionals you want to interview.
Of these three steps, your project description is where you will determine your scope of work and the specific type of construction estimating freelancer you need to complete your project.
How much does it cost to hire a construction estimating freelancer?
Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.
- An experienced construction estimating freelancer may command higher fees but also work faster, have more-specialized areas of expertise, and deliver higher-quality work.
- A contractor who is still in the process of building a client base may price their construction estimating services more competitively.
Which one is right for you will depend on the specifics of your project.
How do you write a construction estimating freelancer job post?
Your job post is your chance to describe your project scope, budget, and talent needs. Although you don’t need a full job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.
Job post title
Create a simple title that describes exactly what you’re looking for. The idea is to target the keywords that your ideal candidate is likely to type into a job search bar to find your project. Here are some sample construction estimating freelancer job post titles:
- Construction estimator and scheduler needed for residential complex project
- Construction management expert needed for budget management project
- Materials pricing expert with construction experience wanted to office building project
Project description
An effective construction estimating freelancer job post should include:
- Scope of work: From coordinating with subcontractors to establishing budgets, list all the deliverables you’ll need.
- Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a smaller or larger project.
- Background: If you prefer experience with certain industries, software, or construction practices, mention this here.
- Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.
Construction estimating freelancer job responsibilities
Here are some examples of construction estimating freelancer job responsibilities:
- Create detailed budgets
- Prepare estimates by calculating complete scope of work
- Review terms and conditions regarding subcontractor and vendor quotes
Construction estimating freelancer job requirements and qualifications
Be sure to include any requirements and qualifications you’re looking for in construction estimating freelancer. Here are some examples:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering
- Minimum 5 years estimating projects for large constructions companies
- Successful track record of helping to keep construction projects within budget