Senior Cost Estimator – CAPEX (Pharma / Life Sciences)
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Cost Estimator to support large-scale capital projects within the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector. This individual will play a critical role in developing, reviewing, and validating project cost estimates across the full project lifecycle, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and alignment with program objectives.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of estimating experience on complex capital projects
- Proven experience supporting large CAPEX programs ($100M – $1B+)
- Strong background in pharmaceutical / life sciences facilities
- Experience working owner-side and/or with major EPC firms or consultancies
- Demonstrated ability to:
- Develop detailed cost estimates
- Review and evaluate contractor bids
- Challenge and validate pricing assumptions
Responsibilities
Estimating & Cost Planning
- Prepare detailed cost estimates across all project phases (conceptual through detailed design)
- Develop and maintain cost plans, benchmarks, and basis-of-estimate documentation
- Analyze architectural and engineering drawings to define scope, quantities, and cost drivers
- Utilize estimating tools (e.g., Excel, CostX, Adobe) and historical data to build accurate cost models
- Apply standard Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and CSI MasterFormat classifications
- Ensure estimates are suitable for inclusion in Cost & Schedule Risk Assessments (CSRA)
Pharma / Technical Scope Expertise
- Lead estimating efforts for:
- Pharmaceutical production facilities
- Fill/finish (parenteral) manufacturing plants
- Laboratories and administrative buildings
- Warehouses and logistics infrastructure
- Bulk manufacturing facilities
- Ensure estimates align with regulatory, GMP, and operational requirements
Independent Review & Cost Validation
- Support independent cost reviews, cost assessments, and benchmarking exercises
- Evaluate contractor and subcontractor bids and provide clear recommendations
- Review and audit contractor deliverables, including:
- Work package estimates
- Target or guaranteed price proposals
- Change orders and variations
- Forecasts and Estimate at Completion (EAC) updates
- Cost impacts related to schedule changes, acceleration, or productivity variances
- Assess and validate interim payment applications
Collaboration & Program Integration
- Partner with Program Controls, Project Management, and Design teams to align cost data with program reporting
- Engage with external partners (A/E firms, Construction Managers, consultants) to ensure estimate quality and consistency
- Support value engineering initiatives to optimize cost without compromising quality or compliance
Additional Responsibilities
- Ensure adherence to internal estimating standards and project delivery procedures
- Contribute to continuous improvement of cost estimating practices and benchmarking data
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