Starting a new role as a job estimator requires a focused plan to quickly understand company processes, develop estimation skills, and build relationships with key stakeholders. This 30-60-90 day plan is designed to guide new estimators through a structured onboarding process that ensures they gain the knowledge and experience necessary to excel.
With this plan, new job estimators will be able to:
- Set clear, measurable objectives aligned with the company's estimation standards and project goals
- Track progress on learning estimation software, understanding cost components, and mastering bid preparation
- Identify key competencies such as analytical skills, attention to detail, and communication needed for success
Whether you’re stepping into a job estimator role for the first time or transitioning within your organization, this customizable template equips you with the tools to hit the ground running and deliver accurate, competitive job estimates.
Benefits of a 30-60-90 Day Job Estimator Plan
Implementing a structured 30-60-90 day plan for job estimators offers several advantages:
- Provides a clear roadmap to develop proficiency in estimating techniques and company-specific processes
- Accelerates relationship-building with project managers, suppliers, and clients to facilitate accurate data gathering
- Helps establish credibility by delivering timely and precise estimates that support business objectives
- Focuses efforts on mastering the most impactful tasks that improve estimation accuracy and efficiency
Main Elements of the 30-60-90 Day Job Estimator Plan
This plan is structured into three 30-day segments, each with specific goals, tasks, and milestones to ensure steady progress:
- First 30 Days:
Learn company estimation processes, familiarize with estimation software, review past project bids, and meet key team members.
- Next 30 Days (31-60):
Begin preparing estimates under supervision, analyze cost data, refine estimation techniques, and gather feedback from senior estimators.
- Final 30 Days (61-90):
Independently prepare comprehensive job estimates, participate in bid meetings, identify areas for process improvement, and document lessons learned.
Throughout the plan, estimators are encouraged to document notes, track action items, and seek feedback to continuously improve their performance. Responsibilities are clearly assigned to ensure accountability and support from managers and mentors.
This structured approach aligns expectations and provides measurable milestones, enabling new job estimators to contribute effectively and confidently within their first three months.
