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Luster National · 4 months ago

Construction Cost Estimator Intern (Georgia Department of Transportation MMIP)

Atlanta, GA

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$20/hr - $20/hr

Start in 2026 Spring

Luster National is offering a Construction Cost Estimator Intern position for motivated college students to gain real-world experience on transformative transportation programs. The intern will assist in developing cost estimates for construction projects and support budget planning, contributing to multibillion-dollar infrastructure initiatives.

ConstructionManagement ConsultingProject Management

Growth Opportunities

Responsibilities

Assist in developing detailed cost estimates for construction projects, covering labor, materials, and equipment

Collaborate with project teams to align cost and scheduling data for integrated planning

Support senior estimators by analyzing project specifications, historical data, and construction methodologies

Coordinate with scheduling and project controls staff to link cost estimates with project timelines

Maintain and update cost databases and estimation software to ensure accuracy and consistency

Review vendor and subcontractor proposals for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with project requirements

Contribute to client-facing presentations and provide general estimating support as needed

Gather and apply industry data and publications to strengthen estimate accuracy

Utilize estimating software under the guidance of senior staff to prepare reliable cost models

Create cost models and work breakdown structures for key estimating elements

Assist in preparing independent cost estimates to support change management, claims analysis, and price negotiations

Gain proficiency in industry-standard software and tools used for estimating and project controls

Qualification

Cost estimatingBudget planningEstimating softwareMicrosoft Office SuiteConstruction project phasesEager to learnTeam collaborationDetail-oriented

Required

The program is open to undergraduate students (Junior or Senior level) enrolled in Civil Engineering or Construction Management, or a related major at an accredited four-year university in Georgia, such as Georgia Southern University or the University of Georgia

Eligible applicants should have completed at least two years of coursework toward their degree

Knowledge of basic estimating principles

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Willingness to travel to field sites as needed

Preference will be given to local candidates

Preferred

Interest in pursuing professional certifications such as AACE Certified Cost Technician (CCT) or Engineer-In-Training (EIT)

Prior internship experience in construction and/or cost estimation

Basic understanding of construction project phases, including design, procurement, and execution

Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, etc.)

Benefits

Real-World Experience: Get hands-on with multibillion-dollar transportation projects across Georgia, contributing to cost estimates, budget planning, and project data analysis.

Industry Insights: Work alongside senior estimators, engineers, and project leaders who will share their expertise in construction management and program delivery.

Skill Development: Strengthen your technical skills in cost estimating, project controls, and budgeting while learning industry-standard tools such as HCSS HeavyBid, Bluebeam, and advanced Excel functions.

Professional Connections: Build your professional network by collaborating with Georgia DOT staff, Luster National professionals, and industry partners, opening doors to future career opportunities.

Career Preparation: Gain practical exposure to the full lifecycle of transportation projects, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to pursue a successful career in cost estimation and construction management.

Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful infrastructure improvements that will transform mobility across Georgia, giving you the chance to be part of a program with long-lasting impact.