Individuals who work for manufacturing companies, construction companies, and other industries that provide a combination of service and material are known as cost estimators. Cost estimators are also known as project executives, chief estimators, or simply project managers in the plumbing and other construction trades. A technical degree is usually required to work as a plumbing estimator, but some companies may prefer different combinations of experience and education.
To become a plumbing estimator, you can take a number of different paths. With just a few professional development classes in cost estimating and project management, a journeyman or master plumber with several years of experience in the plumbing trade may be able to pursue the estimating side of the trade. A person with little or no experience in the field, on the other hand, will most likely need a degree in construction science, construction management, or civil engineering. Cost estimating and project management are common courses in a bachelor’s degree program in these fields.
Some plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation companies prefer to hire estimators who have four-year degrees in related fields, but many plumbing companies will allow and train an experienced employee to become a plumbing estimator. The experience and education requirements will most likely be dictated by the nature of the service provided by the company. Commercial businesses operate on a different scale and scope than residential businesses. While many residential plumbing companies allow their master plumbers to give customers cost estimates, commercial plumbing companies usually have management staff who deal with estimates and bids.
A technical degree can also lead to a career as a plumbing estimator, particularly for those with prior field experience. Because plumbers work with both water and gas pipes, related fields like HVAC and pipe fitting are excellent stepping stones to a career as a plumbing estimator. Individuals interested in working in commercial and residential construction, as well as those with experience in the industry looking for a mid-career change or advancement, may consider a career in plumbing estimating.
Construction management, construction science, and civil engineering are all offered at a variety of universities and community colleges. Apprenticeship programs run by trade unions and technical colleges are also available to help workers gain experience in the plumbing field. To become a plumbing estimator, individuals must gain experience in cost estimating, either through continued education or on-the-job experience.