Cost Engineer

Remote from: USA
Annual salary: Undisclosed
Salary information is not provided for this position. Check our Salary Directory to estimate the average compensation for similar roles.
Department: Software Engineering
Employment type: Full Time,
Job posted: 2 Jul 2026
Apply before: 2 Aug 2026
Experience level: Midweight
Views / Applies: 34 / 4

Fortive is a diverse global team working together to innovate essential technologies for a safer, more productive world.

Industrial Automation
2016

Actively Hiring

AI Summary

This Cost Engineer role at Gordian (a Fortive company) involves researching and validating construction cost data across civil, electrical, and mechanical disciplines. The position requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or construction management and 5+ years of estimating experience. The engineer will collaborate with QA teams, participate in Agile ceremonies, and support client deliverables using Azure DevOps. This remote role offers an opportunity to contribute to industry-leading cost data while working in a dynamic, growth-oriented culture.

Role DNA

Job Complexity

Easy Hard

Pace & Pressure

Relaxed Fast-paced

Autonomy Level

Guided Full Ownership

Communication Load

Independent Highly Collaborative

AI Insight The role requires 5+ years of specialized experience and a bachelor's degree, indicating a moderate to high level of difficulty. The need for analytical research and collaboration across teams adds complexity.

Salary Analysis

AI Insight No salary was provided in the listing. Based on US market data for cost engineers, the median salary is approximately $95,000. The offered compensation may vary depending on experience and location.

Core Skills Required

Cost Engineering Construction Estimating Data Analysis RSMeans Agile Development Azure DevOps Civil Engineering Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Building Codes

Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am thrilled to apply for the Cost Engineer position at Gordian. With a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and over six years of experience in construction estimating, I have developed a strong ability to research and validate cost data across multiple disciplines. My hands-on knowledge of installation practices and codes, combined with proficiency in Microsoft Office and enterprise systems, aligns well with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

I am particularly drawn to Gordian's reputation as a leader in facility and construction cost data, and I am eager to contribute to the accuracy and reliability of RSMeans data. My background includes collaborating with cross-functional teams and using Agile methodologies to ensure timely delivery of high-quality work. I am confident that my analytical skills and attention to detail will make me a valuable asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can support Gordian's mission in further detail.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample Interview Questions

Describe a time when you identified a significant error in cost data. How did you correct it and what was the outcome?

Example: In a previous role, I noticed that the labor cost for a specific concrete formwork was outdated. I researched current local labor rates and supplier quotes, updated the assembly, and coordinated with the QA team to validate. This improved the accuracy of cost estimates by 15% for projects using that assembly.

How do you ensure data integrity when updating cost models across multiple platforms?

I follow a structured validation process: first cross-reference with industry standards (e.g., RSMeans, OSHA), then peer review, and finally test the data in the target software. I maintain a version control log to track changes and revert if necessary.

Can you explain your experience with Azure DevOps and Agile ceremonies? How do you prioritize work items?

I have used Azure DevOps for sprint planning, task tracking, and retrospectives. I prioritize work items based on business value and dependencies, collaborating with the Product Owner to clarify requirements. I also use historical velocity to ensure realistic sprint commitments.

How do you stay updated on changes in construction codes, materials, and labor costs?

I subscribe to industry publications like Engineering News-Record and attend webinars. I also monitor regulatory updates from OSHA and ICC. For material costs, I regularly review supplier price lists and commodity indices.

Describe a challenging project where you had to manage multiple disciplines simultaneously. How did you handle it?

I once led a cost estimation project for a mixed-use development that required civil, structural, and MEP data. I broke down the project into discipline-specific tasks, set clear milestones, and coordinated with specialists in each area. Regular check-ins ensured consistency and integration of the cost data.

Location: Remote in US

The Cost Engineer is responsible for producing and validating construction cost data across multiple disciplines. This role involves applying engineering knowledge and construction experience to ensure accurate, reliable, and comprehensive cost data for Gordian’s products and consulting services.

Responsibilities:

Research and analyze construction material, equipment, and labor costs for assigned disciplines (civil, electrical, mechanical, etc.).
Develop and update cost data, assemblies, and models with attention to accuracy and industry standards.
Collaborate with cost researchers and QA teams to maintain data integrity across print and digital platforms.
Support internal projects and client deliverables by providing discipline-specific expertise.
Identify opportunities to improve data collection and validation processes.

Additional Agile/ADO Responsibilities:

Participate actively in Agile ceremonies and maintain accurate work items in Azure DevOps.
Collaborate closely with the Product Owner to clarify requirements and ensure sprint deliverables meet business priorities.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in civil, electrical, mechanical engineering, construction management, or related field.
5+ years of experience in construction estimating or engineering with hands-on knowledge of installation practices and codes.
Strong analytical and research skills with attention to detail.
Familiarity with construction standards, OSHA, and building codes.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to learn enterprise systems.
Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills.

Fortive Corporation Overview

Fortive’s essential technology makes the world safer and more productive. We accelerate transformation in high-impact fields like workplace safety, build environments, and healthcare.

We are a global industrial technology innovator with a startup spirit. Our forward-looking companies lead the way in healthcare sterilization, industrial safety, predictive maintenance, and other mission-critical solutions. We’re a force for progress, working alongside our customers and partners to solve challenges on a global scale, from workplace safety in the most demanding conditions to advanced technologies that help providers focus on exceptional patient care.

We are a diverse team 10,000 strong, united by a dynamic, inclusive culture and energized by limitless learning and growth. We use the proven Fortive Business System (FBS) to accelerate our positive impact.

At Fortive, we believe in you. We believe in your potential—your ability to learn, grow, and make a difference.

At Fortive, we believe in us. We believe in the power of people working together to solve problems no one could solve alone.

At Fortive, we believe in growth. We’re honest about what’s working and what isn’t, and we never stop improving and innovating.

Fortive: For you, for us, for growth.

About Gordian

Gordian is the world’s leading provider of facility and construction cost data, software and services for all phases of the building lifecycle. A pioneer of Job Order Contracting (JOC), Gordian’s offerings also include our proprietary RSMeans data and Sightlines Facility Intelligence solutions. From planning to design, procurement, construction and operations, Gordian’s solutions help clients maximize efficiency, optimize cost savings and increase building quality. Gordian is a part of the international business group Fortive, with 26,000 people employed worldwide.We offer an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and LTD insurance, HSA, and a 401(k) retirement plan. EOE/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled.

We Are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Fortive Corporation and all Fortive Companies are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other characteristics protected by law. Fortive and all Fortive Companies are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment application process, please contact us at [email protected].

Bonus or Equity
This position is also eligible for bonus as part of the total compensation package.

Pay Range
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 70,600.00 – 117,900.00

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