Cost Estimating Analyst

This range is provided by Vaco by Highspring. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

$85,000.00/yr - $95,000.00/yr

Direct message the job poster from Vaco by Highspring

Company: Privately Held Technology Solutions Company

Compensation: $80,000 to $95,000 base + discretionary bonus + strong benefits package

As a Cost Estimating Analyst, you'll transform complex technical, financial, and operational inputs into clear models that guide business decisions. This is a highly collaborative, front‑facing position where you'll work closely with engineering, supply chain, and program teams to validate assumptions, identify risk, and build estimates that leadership can trust.

You'll begin with smaller change orders, but with mentorship from a senior program‑finance leader, you'll rapidly grow toward owning full proposals from start to finish. If you're analytical, curious, and eager to develop deep expertise in cost estimating, this role offers a strong growth track.

• Build, validate, and document cost models aligned to WBS structures and proposal requirements.
• Challenge assumptions, pressure‑test inputs, and ensure timing, scope, and cash‑flow estimates are realistic.
• Translate RFPs, milestones, and risk data into financial outputs, including cash‑flow forecasts, P&Ls, and review packages.
• Collaborate with engineering, program management, supply chain, and contracts to gather accurate data.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of cost‑estimating tools, templates, and processes.

• 3–5+ years in cost estimating, pricing, financial analysis, or related experience (government or complex RFP experience strongly preferred).
• Advanced Excel skills – you can build, audit, and troubleshoot models confidently.
• A critical, curious mindset – you verify numbers rather than accept them at face value.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain assumptions and methodology.
• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field preferred, though relevant experience is equally valued.
• Comfort working under tight deadlines and shifting priorities.
• Bonus: experience with ERP/CRM systems (e.g., Net Suite, Salesforce) or working with international RFPs.

Fully remote. San Diego based with occasional domestic travel for training or proposal work.

Eligible states include: AL, CA, CO, FL, GA, KS, KY, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, SC, TX, VA, WA.

• Entry level

• Full‑time

• Accounting/Auditing

• Technology, Information and Media and Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)

• Compensation varies based on experience, skills, and location.
• Incentive plan, health benefits, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with match, and PTO included.