Cost Estimator (SF-424C Lead) in at Chartis Consulting Corporation

About Chartis Federal

Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration firm specializing in mission-critical IT and communications solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense. As a trusted prime contractor with over $160 million in task order awards, we operate across 22 states and support essential government missions worldwide.

Our commitment to excellence has fueled our year-over-year growth, earning us recognition twice as a Washington Technology FAST 50 company and securing a place on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years. At Chartis Federal, our mission is clear: keeping heroes safe and connected—on the battlefield, on the border, and in our backyards.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Cost Estimator / SF-424C Lead to support a U.S. Virgin Islands government communications program. This role develops the full implementation cost estimate, the cost narrative and basis of estimate, the SF-424C budget and the project expenditure plan that FEMA will use to evaluate funding for the next phase of the program. The ideal candidate combines telecommunications or infrastructure estimating experience with hands-on knowledge of FEMA grant budgets and federal cost principles.

This position is contingent upon award.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop a detailed, line-item implementation cost estimate for the full mitigation project, including future-phase equipment, installation, testing and commissioning, for FEMA review.
• Prepare the SF-424C (Budget Information – Construction Programs) with line-item detail and no lump sums, consistent with FEMA HMGP requirements.
• Write the cost narrative and basis of estimate, documenting assumptions, quantities, unit costs, sources, escalation and contingency.
• Collect and normalize nonbinding budgetary and rough-order-of-magnitude vendor quotes for satellite terminals, gateways, antennas, mounts, power systems and installation services, while keeping the estimate vendor-neutral.
• Work with the Chief Systems Architect, Engineer of Record and discipline engineers to translate design quantities and specifications into cost elements across approximately 40 fixed sites and multiple mobile equipment classes.
• Develop and maintain the quarterly expenditure plan with the Program Manager.
• Reconcile the estimate to the final signed and sealed design, and support client review of the cost package.
• Respond to FEMA and client questions on cost and budget, and support change requests that affect scope or cost.
• Ensure the estimate and budget documentation comply with 2 CFR Part 200 cost principles and FEMA grant eligibility guidance.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, finance, business or a related field is required.
• 8+ years’ experience in cost estimating for telecommunications, IT or infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience preparing FEMA grant budgets (HMGP or Public Assistance), including SF-424C forms, cost narratives and basis-of-estimate documentation.
• Working knowledge of 2 CFR Part 200 and FEMA cost eligibility requirements.
• Experience pricing communications equipment and installation (satellite, land mobile radio, cellular, tower or rooftop work) is preferred.
• Familiarity with FEMA Benefit-Cost Analysis is desired.
• AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or Certified Estimating Professional (CEP), or ICEAA Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA), is desired.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong technical writing for government reviewers.
• Ability to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands as needed.

Why Join Chartis Federal?

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Retirement plans with company contributions
• Professional development opportunities and career growth support
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued

At Chartis Federal, we believe in fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation while supporting critical national security missions. Join us in shaping the future of government contracting and national security solutions.

Chartis Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employs qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification proscribed under applicable law. We participate in E-Verify.