Estimating Intern, Engineering

As an Estimating Intern at Flatiron, your main responsibilities will include reviewing proposals and drawings to determine the scope of work, assisting in preparing discipline estimates, conducting material quantity calculations from engineering dimensions, and collaborating with clients and vendors to address issues and formulate estimates.

To qualify for the Estimating Intern position at Flatiron, you must be currently enrolled in an Engineering, Construction Management, or similar program at an accredited technical college or university. This internship aims to bridge your academic training with practical applications in the field.

The Estimating Internship at Flatiron in Richmond is a 4-month co-op position, starting from April 28, 2025, and concluding on August 29, 2025. This timeframe enables you to immerse yourself fully in the work and gain valuable insights and experiences.

Flatiron offers a comprehensive benefits package for their Estimating Interns, which includes a competitive hourly wage, paid time off, an industry-leading 401(k)/RRSP plan, medical and dental coverage, wellness benefits, and a tuition reimbursement program, ensuring a supportive environment for your growth.

During your time as an Estimating Intern at Flatiron, you will develop vital skills in project estimation, cost analysis, teamwork, and client communication. Additionally, you'll enhance your understanding of engineering principles and the construction management process, setting the stage for your career advancement.

I am passionate about combining my engineering education with real-world applications. The opportunity to work at Flatiron, known for its innovative projects, excites me as I can learn from experts and contribute to meaningful work.

In handling tight deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on urgency, ensuring I focus on critical components first. I maintain open communication with my team to delegate effectively and track progress, making sure we meet our timelines without sacrificing quality.

In my previous projects, I collaborated closely with classmates, where we divided roles according to each member's strengths. This allowed us to successfully compile data into a comprehensive project plan, illustrating the power of diverse perspectives.

I have experience using Microsoft Excel for data analysis and budgeting, and I am eager to learn industry-specific estimating software. I understand the importance of these tools in ensuring accurate and efficient project estimates.

I approach unfamiliar technical concepts with curiosity and a systematic learning strategy. I often start with foundational articles and leverage online resources, including tutorials and forums, to deepen my understanding before applying it in practical scenarios.

I ensure accuracy in my estimates by cross-referencing data, maintaining detailed records of source materials, and conducting thorough reviews with peers. I find that seeking feedback from others also helps mitigate errors and improve the overall estimate quality.

The most important aspect of project estimates is comprehensiveness. It's crucial to consider all scope elements, labor, materials, and potential risks. This holistic approach allows for more reliable estimates and better project management.

Interning in Richmond is appealing because it is a vibrant city that offers various construction projects and exposure to diverse engineering challenges. It represents a unique opportunity to grow within a collaborative environment, which aligns with my career goals.

In a team discussion with conflicting ideas, I would advocate for a respectful open dialogue where everyone can present their viewpoints. Fostering a collaborative environment helps us find common ground and determine the best solution based on facts and project needs.

When working on a group project, I noticed a gap in our research and took the initiative to gather additional data. By presenting this information to the team, we were able to enhance our project’s credibility and ultimately received high marks for our thoroughness.