How much does a Principal Estimator make in the United States?
-
The average Principal Estimator salary in the United States is $90,259 as of October 2026. The range for our most popular Principal Estimator positions (listed below) typically falls between $79,223 and $101,296. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Principal Estimator's Annual Base Salary
Principal Estimator's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Estimator | $74,236 | $35.69 | United States | October 2026 |
| Principal | $107,090 | $51.49 | United States | October 2026 |
| Automobile Estimator | $53,885 | $25.91 | United States | October 2026 |
| Assistant Estimator | $49,470 | $23.78 | United States | October 2026 |
| Roofing Estimator | $62,843 | $30.21 | United States | October 2026 |
| Electrical Estimator | $68,195 | $32.79 | United States | October 2026 |
| Senior Estimator | $93,148 | $44.78 | United States | October 2026 |
| Chief Estimator | $122,881 | $59.08 | United States | October 2026 |
| Collision Estimator | $89,259 | $42.91 | United States | October 2026 |
| Construction Estimator | $89,507 | $43.03 | United States | October 2026 |
-
Investigates assigned claims to determine validity, detect potential fraud, and gather facts to support claim decisions. Conducts interviews, surveillance, record reviews, and field investigations to obtain relevant evidence. Analyzes statements, documentation, and data to identify inconsistencies and indicators of fraud. Documents investigative findings, evidence, and conclusions in clear and accurate reports. Ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and investigative standards. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4-7 years of related experience. View Claims Senior Investigator SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Claim Compliance Senior Investigator, Insurance Compliance Senior Investigator, Insurance Fraud Senior Investigator, Suspicious Claims Senior InvestigatorCategory : Legal Services
-
Develops cost estimates for projects based on work scope, specifications, and contract proposals using applicable estimating methodologies and tools. Analyzes project requirements, plans, and specifications to identify labor, material, equipment, and service requirements. Uses benchmark data, trends, prior estimates, and historical pricing schedules to generate detailed cost estimates that consist of itemized lists of expenses, labor hours, material quantities, and potential cost variations. Depending on the complexity and type of project, may use different estimating methods, mathematical models, or specialized estimating software tools to generate estimates. Provides guidance and training on estimating best practices. May require a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a manager. Supervises a small group of para-professional staff in an organization characterized by highly transactional or repetitive processes. Contributes to the development of processes and procedures. Typically requires 3 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. Thorough knowledge of functional area under supervision. View Cost Estimating Supervisor SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Project Cost Estimator Lead, Technical Project Estimating SupervisorCategories : Construction and Installation, Engineering, Financial Services, Manufacturing, Planning