Cost Analyst (Billing and Construction) will evaluate and analyze cost estimates for the repair and reconstruction of primary residences including working with contractors, specialized services (electrical, dry wall, plumbing). In addition, the role may involve coordinating volunteer labor groups to ensure a seamless sequence of repairs for clients.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Engage with clients, vendors, personnel from other departments, or construction foremen to discuss and formulate estimates, addressing any arising issues.
• Blueprint Analysis: Analyze blueprints and other documentation to prepare estimates for time, cost, materials, and labor.
• Estimate Validation: Compare and contrast estimates with contractor quotes to ensure fair and equitable treatment for clients from private contractors, as requested.
• Vendor Selection: Prepare estimates for management's use in selecting vendors or subcontractors, supporting planning, organizing, and scheduling of work.
• Loss Analysis: Analyze reports to determine the nature and extent of loss, insurance coverage, scope of damage, and identify causes such as hurricane impact, deferred maintenance, or a combination.
• Compliance and Coordination: Coordinate with case managers and homeowners to ensure contractors meet preset criteria, adhering to local, state, and federal building codes.
• Inspection and Documentation: Inspect and document damage, meet with insured parties, and promptly develop accurate and timely investigation and loss analysis files.
• Project Management: Maintain and monitor project logs, prepare cost and expenditure statements, and provide necessary documentation at regular intervals throughout the project duration.
• Supplier Directory: Prepare and maintain a directory of suppliers, contractors, subcontractors, and qualified volunteer groups as applicable.
• Cost-effectiveness Assessment: Review material and labor requirements, evaluating cost-effectiveness in terms of production or purchase of components.
• Tendering Process: Establish and maintain a tendering process, conduct negotiations, and assess cost effectiveness throughout the project.
• Cost Monitoring: Set up cost monitoring and reporting systems and procedures.
• Site Visits: Visit project sites to gather information about access, drainage, topography, and availability of services such as water and electricity.
• Interpersonal and Organizational Skills: Demonstrate excellent interpersonal, organizational, and managerial skills.

  Requirements

• Disaster Management Knowledge: Possess existing knowledge and understanding of Disaster Case Management and Long-Term Recovery Group coordination (helpful).
• Self-motivation: Be a highly motivated self-starter with the ability to produce results without extensive supervision.
• Insurance Expertise: Have knowledge of insurance contracts and damage investigation techniques.
• Communication: Ability to work with and communicate effectively with a diverse range of people, both internal and external customers.
• Business Relationships: Develop and maintain strong business relationships with internal and external customers.
• Estimation Experience: Previous experience providing construction cost estimates is required.
• Construction Background: Previous experience in home construction and/or major home repair/renovation is strongly preferred.
• Task Management: Ability to prioritize and handle multiple complex tasks.
• Flexible Schedule: Ability to work weekends and/or evenings as required.
• Transportation: Must have daily use of a vehicle and possess a driver’s license with a clear record.
• Computer Proficiency: Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.