Cost Estimator

About:

Alef Group is a pioneer in developing premier lifestyle communities, destinations, and experiences through investment and strategic joint ventures, seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Cost Estimator to join our growing team based in Sharjah.

Key Accountabilities:

Cost Estimation & Budgeting:

• Analyze project concepts, feasibility studies, and development plans to provide detailed cost estimates.
• Assist in preparing and validating project budgets, ensuring alignment with market trends and financial objectives.
• Identify and mitigate cost risks while maintaining profitability and efficiency.

Feasibility Study Support:

• Collaborate with the finance and development teams to assess project feasibility.
• Conduct market research to benchmark construction costs, land values, and operational expenses.

Bid Evaluation & Value Engineering:

• Work with procurement and contractors to obtain competitive quotes and evaluate proposals.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Assist in negotiations with vendors and contractors to optimize pricing.

Strategic Reporting & CEO Support:

• Prepare high-level cost reports and budget summaries for CEO and board presentations.
• Provide insights on cost deviations, financial forecasts, and project profitability.
• Assist in financial modeling to support investment and development decisions.

Collaboration & Coordination:

• Work closely with development, finance, and project management teams to streamline cost planning.
• Support the CEO Office in strategic business case preparations for new developments.

Educational Qualifications, Work Experience, and Skills Required:

Educational Qualification & Certifications:

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Professional certifications like RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) are highly preferred.
• Master’s degree in Construction or Project Management is advantageous.

Work Experience:

• Must have 8-10 years of experience in estimation within the Real Estate, Construction, or Property Development sector.
• Proven experience with cost estimation, tendering processes, and budget preparation.
• Strong background in residential, commercial, and mixed-use development projects.
• Familiarity with local construction standards, regulations, and market rates in the UAE/GCC region.
• Experience working closely with procurement, project management, and contract teams.

Skills required:

• Strong knowledge of costing methodologies, BOQ (Bill of Quantities) preparation, and rate analysis.
• Proficiency in estimation software like CostX, Candy CCS, or Primavera.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD and construction drawing interpretation.
• Attention to detail with strong analytical abilities.
• Excellent numerical accuracy and data analysis capabilities.
• Ability to prepare clear and detailed reports and present cost estimates to stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation skills when liaising with contractors and suppliers.
• Effective collaboration with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams.
• Understanding of project timelines, scheduling, and resource planning.
• Ability to forecast costs and track budgets throughout the project lifecycle.