General Engineer (Cost Engineer) - DIRECT HIRE

Full Job Description

The position is established to develop detailed cost estimates from the contractor's viewpoint, provided cost estimates and related advice in recommending changes in design or materials to permit the construction of a project; and provide cost engineering assistance in negotiations.

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must (1) meet the Education Requirement for the series, (2) provide a copy of transcripts for verification, AND (3) meet either the education or experience requirements for the grade at which you are requesting consideration.

To qualify for the GS-11 on Experience, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-09 it must include: Experience developing detailed and conceptual construction cost estimates for civil or military projects using cost estimating methodologies and software; reviewing plans and specifications to identify discrepancies and recommend cost-effective design or material alternatives.

Experience supporting analysis of contract modifications and contractor claims; reviewing Architect-Engineer estimates for accuracy; coordinating with project team members to align scope, schedule, and budget considerations.

Experience assisting in monitoring project costs and preparing cost analyses or briefings to support project decisions.

To qualify for the GS-11 on Education alone, you must have: 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.

You can also qualify based on a combination of higher level graduate education and experience. This must be fully supported by your resume and transcripts, provided with your application.

To qualify for the GS-12 on Experience, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11 it must include: Experience independently developing and defending detailed and conceptual construction cost estimates (including Rough Order of Magnitude estimates) for complex civil or military projects using advanced cost engineering methodologies and estimating software.

Experience reviewing plans and specifications to identify discrepancies and recommend cost-effective design or material alternatives.

Experience providing cost analysis for contract modifications, claims, negotiations, and Architect-Engineer estimate reviews; coordinating with project stakeholders to align scope, schedule, and budget objectives.

Experience monitoring financial obligations and preparing cost analyses and briefings to support sound project and funding decisions.

You cannot qualify on education at the GS-12 level; you must have experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: Technical Competence – Use of knowledge acquired through training or extensive on-the-job experience to perform one's job; works with, understands, and technical information related t the job; advises other on technical issues.

- Analytical – Use knowledge and experience gained to examine things in detail in order to discover more about them and provide guidance and advice.

Written/Oral Communication – Write in a clear, concise, organized, and convincing manner for the intended audience.

Express information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information including technical, sensitive, controversial topics.

Makes clear and convincing oral presentations.

For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/frequently-asked-questions/employment-faq/federal-hiring/how-do-i-apply-for-federal-jobs/ Students enrolled in a qualifying degree program can apply if the anticipated graduation date is within six months of closing date of the announcement.

Graduation transcript must be received before start date. Other applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement. Major Duties:

The General Engineer (Cost Engineer): At the GS-11 Level: Develops detailed cost estimates from the construction contractor's viewpoint.

Delivers complete construction and services project cost estimates. Provides cost expertise on complex claims and assists in negotiation.

Reviews design and construction projects to develop recommendation for mor efficient or cost-effective means. At the GS-12 level: Serves as a specialist in the Academy's cost engineering function.

Provides cost expertise on complex contractor claims and assists in negotiations. Directs staff on procedures, requirements, and policies of the cost estimating and specification writing industry.

Develops details cost estimates from the construction contractor's viewpoint; recommends changes in design or materials for cost-efficiency; assists in modification negotiations.

Reviews construction project parameters (scope, cost, schedule, risk, etc.) to recommend changes that will improve overall project results.

The ideal candidate is a professional engineer with progressive experience in construction cost engineering, developing detailed cost estimates from a contractor's perspective and delivering comprehensive estimates for construction and service-related projects.

The candidate analyzes plans, specifications, and project parameters—including scope, schedule, cost, and risk—to ensure accuracy and recommend design or material modifications that improve cost-efficiency and overall project performance.

They provide expert cost analysis on complex contractor claims, support negotiations and contract modifications, and apply sound engineering judgment to resolve cost issues.

At the senior level, the candidate serves as a cost engineering specialist, exercises a high degree of independent judgment, advises leadership on cost estimating practices and industry standards, and may direct or guide staff on procedures, policies, and specification development to strengthen organizational cost engineering functions.