Senior Consultant, Construction Estimation Expert

Summary

Join The Vertex Companies, LLC as a Senior Consultant in our Damages/Cost Estimation group! You will leverage your 10+ years of experience in construction cost estimation to testify as an expert witness, develop cost estimates for various scopes of work, and manage multiple client matters. This role requires expertise in construction drawings, estimating software, and report writing. You will analyze construction documents, attend site inspections, and utilize pricing databases. The position offers a hybrid work model with potential for remote work and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Prior expert witness experience is essential.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture or Construction Management preferred, though will consider years of work experience in lieu of degree
• Professional credentials and certifications related to cost estimation
• 10+ years of professional experience developing and defending construction estimates
• Prior experience as an expert witness providing testimony and/or arbitration for construction damages or cost related cases required
• Working knowledge and ability to read and interpret construction drawings, understand construction means and methods and perform cost estimating for varying types residential, commercial, and industrial structures
• Proficiency in construction estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, RSMeans, etc.)
• Aptitude with MS Office applications, project accounting and spreadsheet data
• Excellent verbal and written (technical) communication skills in English
• Confidence to work effectively with all levels of management and clients
• Able to meet deadlines, both internally and externally driven

Responsibilities

• Testify as an expert witness regarding your cost estimating opinions in dispute resolution proceedings, as necessary
• Develop cost of repair estimates for scopes of work (typically cladding, framing, foundation, flatwork, civil, roofing, MEP, and interior scopes of work) based on engineering report recommendations for reconstruction projects
• Manage multiple cost estimation related client matters which typically involve construction defect claims and disputes
• Analyze construction plans, documents, and construction contracts to understand party responsibilities and allocate cost estimate line items to parties responsible for the alleged defect
• Attend site inspections of projects to document observable conditions
• Perform/review electronic onscreen quantity takeoffs for accuracy and precision
• Utilize multiple pricing databases (Xactimate/RS Means) to determine unit costs for repair work
• Compose expert reports detailing cost estimating strategies/highlights and breakdown of cost allocation
• Communicate assignment requirements directly with client and team
• Lead project team effectively and manage team schedule to ensure deadlines and budget expectations are met

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated experience in business development, including client relationship management and proposal preparation. Ability to acquire new clients and/or have client following preferred

Benefits

• Base salary and discretionary bonus plan
• Healthcare (with multiple plan options) and dental
• Company-paid Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
• 401k plan with immediate match and vesting
• Flex Spending Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Other perks
• Paid time off plan for eligible employees including 15 days of vacation, 64 hours of sick time, and 9.5 paid holidays (prorated for eligible part-time employees)
• ���Lifetime of Learning” program also offers tuition reimbursement and additional support for pursuing advanced education, to help employees grow their skills and careers
• Hybrid work model with potential for remote work