Princeton University Hiring for Senior Cost Estimator at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Full Time

PPPL invites applications for the position of Senior Cost Estimator in support of the PPPL Project Portfolio. This Portfolio, worth ~$1.4B and growing, represents a diverse range of efforts from new construction and infrastructure to the design, fabrication, and assembly of experimental scientific/research Projects. We recognize that successful project estimating is crucial to the success of our projects and our mission.

The purpose of this position is to strengthen and develop new cost-estimating capabilities within PPPL’s Project Management Office in support of the PPPL Project Portfolio which includes efforts ranging from new construction and infrastructure to the design, fabrication, and assembly of experimental scientific/research Projects, as well as modifications of existing facilities in support of the Lab’s Mission. And, to ensure the appropriateness, consistency, and accuracy of estimates throughout the project lifecycle, by setting the standard for cost estimating, establishing appropriate tools, providing assistance and training to projects, developing a PPPL cost estimating database (especially for in-house work), and performing assurance on estimates developed by projects.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Core Duties: 

• Set the PPPL standard for project cost estimating by
  • Maintaining the PPPL cost estimating procedure and tools to ensure compliance with up-to-date industry and DOE-Office of Science Standards.
• Provide assistance to projects in the development of cost estimates:
  • Develop, maintain, and function as the administrator of a PPPL database of historical project costs, especially for work performed in-house, which supports cost estimation of future projects with similar or related scope, and which is organized in a manner available and searchable by all PPPL projects; collect and analyze actuals to keep this database up to date. Work independently to develop complex estimating models including factored and parametric estimates.
  • Guide projects in utilizing PPPL tools and procedures in developing, classifying, and documenting cost estimates.
  • Provide training related to cost-estimating processes and tools.
  • Maintain and administer subcontract(s), with competent estimating firm(s) to provide multi-disciplinary construction cost estimates and change order estimates for the full range of estimating services. And, manage/coordinate efforts of such subcontract(s) to provide estimates.
  • Publish, or subcontract to procure, regular market conditions and escalation reports for use by PPPL projects.
• Provide assurance to PPPL management that estimates have been developed with appropriate processes and rigor by convening Project Cost Estimate assurance reviews especially for Stage Gate Decision Packages and as needed to a) Assure proper execution of Cost Estimating standards, procedures, systems, tools, and b) Assess the reliability of the estimate in terms of completeness of scope definition, design maturity, soundness of the BOE, risk identification, uncertainty characterization.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent (Major Engineering, Construction Management, or related field) is required.
• 10 years of related experience in construction and science research project cost estimating.
  • Substantial experience providing pre-construction/estimating services to clients such as determining the level of practicality of design, constructability and by providing estimates and determining estimating techniques, including planning, conceptual, preliminary, and final estimates for construction and scientific/laboratory facilities.
  • Substantial experience managing, overseeing, and directing cost-estimating processes.
• Demonstrated high level of skill preparing estimates manually and with computer generated spreadsheet applications for multi-disciplinary estimates.
• Past experience at DOE labs preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

Software skills (PC/Mac) 

• Proficient knowledge in the use of advanced estimating softwares and takeoff programs such as Timberline, RS Means, Bluebeam, etc.

• Proficient knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite including Word, and Powerpoint, with specific knowledge of computerized estimating spreadsheets and programs including Excel using advanced functions.

• Strong understanding of the Google Suite including Google Slides, Google Docs/Google Sheets Google Drive, preferred.

   

General: 

• Strong understanding of industry cost estimating best practices such as the Department of Energy, “Cost Estimating Guide” (DOE G 413.3-21) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO), “GAO Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide” (GAO-09-3SP). As well as up-to-date knowledge of estimating CSI Divisions.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret construction drawings and bid documents for the purposes of cost estimating.
• Strong understanding of of applicable construction codes, OSHA requirements, and federal, state and local regulations pertaining to the environment, health and safety.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated team building and team management skills, including the ability to work effectively with peers, other organizations, project sponsors, stakeholders, and suppliers.
• Strong understanding of government accounting preferred.

Certificates and Licenses: 

• Certification as a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) by the American Society of Professional Estimators, Cost Estimating Professional by (AACE) or as a Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA) by the Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis.
• OSHA training preferred.

Working Conditions: 

• Office environment. This position will allow for some work from home capabilities once the candidate has gotten proficient with their position.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours40.00Eligible for OvertimeNoBenefits EligibleYesProbationary Period180 daysEssential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)NoPhysical Capacity Exam RequiredNoValid Driver’s License RequiredNo #LI-CL1