Advance Your Career as a Federal Estimator with the GSA
Are you an expert in construction cost management with a passion for public service? The General Services Administration (GSA) is currently hiring Estimators to support the Public Buildings Service. This role is essential for ensuring that federal infrastructure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
About the General Services Administration
The GSA serves as the landlord for the U.S. federal government, managing millions of square feet of workspace. The Public Buildings Service (PBS) is responsible for the design, construction, and management of these facilities. Joining the GSA means working at the intersection of architecture, engineering, and government operations.
Job Responsibilities
As an Estimator, your daily duties will be diverse and challenging. Key responsibilities include:
- Budget Forecasting: Preparing bid-level and planning-stage cost estimates for complex construction projects.
- Technical Consultation: Serving as the subject matter expert to advise project managers and design teams.
- Contract Oversight: Managing the full lifecycle of contracts for external service providers.
- Compliance: Ensuring all estimates adhere to Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and ethical codes.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several key criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Certification: Maintain a Level 2 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) certificate.
- Screening: Pass a Tier 2 background investigation.
- Experience: Demonstrate at least one year of experience at a level equivalent to GS-12 in the federal service.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $172,980 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package.
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Wide selection of comprehensive plans |
| Leave | Paid vacation, sick leave, and 11 federal holidays |
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) |
| Subsidies | Transit and child care assistance |
Application Tips
Competition for federal roles is high. Ensure your two-page resume is data-driven, highlighting your success in managing large-scale construction budgets. Clearly articulate your experience with specific mechanical, electrical, and structural systems.
This position represents a prestigious opportunity to manage the costs and risks of the nation's most important building projects. If you are prepared to leverage your expertise in a role that combines technical rigor with national impact, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.
Why This Estimator Job Matters
Take command of major construction budgets and shape the future of federal infrastructure with the General Services Administration.
Estimator Job Overview
The General Services Administration (GSA) is seeking a skilled Estimator to join the Public Buildings Service. In this critical role, you will act as a subject matter expert for cost management, overseeing a wide array of projects from initial planning to final construction. This position offers the unique opportunity to influence national building standards while navigating the complexities of high-level project risk, schedule management, and technical compliance. If you possess a sharp eye for construction costs and a commitment to public service, this role provides an impactful career path.
Requirements for Estimator
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959
- Completion of a one-year probationary period if applicable
- Successful completion of a Tier 2 background investigation
- Maintenance of a Level 2 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) certification
- Submission of a financial disclosure report
- Disclosure of status as a current or former political appointee (within the last 5 years)
Preferred Qualifications for Estimator
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 federal grade level
- Expertise in construction cost management, market analysis, and forecasting for complex building projects
- Comprehensive knowledge of architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering disciplines
- Proficiency in interpreting technical plans, specifications, and federal acquisition regulations
- Proven experience in developing Statements of Work and managing professional service contracts
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance with multiple plan options
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓11 paid federal holidays annually
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement account)
- ✓Public transportation and child care subsidies
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
- ✓Long-term care insurance
- ✓Professional training and career development
💡 How to Apply Estimator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Estimator Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account and create a federal-formatted resume.
- Review the specific Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) requested in the announcement.
- Prepare your resume, ensuring it does not exceed two pages and includes all required employment details.
- Click the Apply button to be redirected to the GSA application portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire and upload required documentation, such as SF-50s for current federal employees.
- Confirm the submission and wait for the status update on your applicant dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the five core KSAs, as these are used for your initial score.
- Keep your resume concise; any document over two pages will be automatically rejected.
- Check your browser settings if you experience technical issues during the transition from the jobs portal.
- Document your hours worked per week and specific dates for all relevant experience.
- Highlight your performance appraisals and awards to bolster your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Estimator at the GSA?
You will manage project budgets, provide technical authority on cost estimates, and ensure that construction projects align with federal guidelines and design standards.
Are there multiple locations for this job?
Yes, this position is open in many major cities across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and others listed in the announcement.
What happens if I forget to submit my SF-50?
Failure to provide necessary documentation like the SF-50 for current federal employees may prevent your application from being fully evaluated for eligibility.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Generally, no. Expenses are the responsibility of the candidate, though relocation incentives for current federal employees may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
How do I know if I am eligible?
Review the specific KSA requirements. If you meet these standards and submit all required documentation (including SF-50 forms for current staff), your application will move to the SME review panel.