Director, Estimating (Expat)

Universal Creative
Job ID: 638615
Category: Facilities/Utilities/ConstructionFacilities/Utilities/Construction,
Career Type: Regular (Full-Time)
Location: Orlando, FL

At Universal Creative, we design, develop, and deliver the most compelling entertainment experiences imaginable. Our Facilities and Construction roles manage creative design decisions, ensure constructability, and oversee project budgets and schedules to bring our projects to life. We empower our team to provide positive vendor management, innovative engineering and design direction, and strong hands-on field supervision.

Job Description & Requirements

While this position is not currently available, we expect it to become vacant at a later date and are beginning sourcing efforts. Although we are not actively recruiting for this role at the moment, we encourage you to send us your resume if you wish to be considered when the opportunity arises. A recruiter will reach out to you should the position open and align with your background and experience.

JOB SUMMARY

Generate initial project budget estimates for all projects ranging from new Retail, Restaurants and Attractions Resort Hotels to entirely new Theme Parks. Completes subsequent estimates as the projects progress through design, to compare to budget. Includes management of in-house estimators and contracted

JOB SUMMARY

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Reviews initial budget estimates for new projects including estimate refinements prepared by the individual project estimators or outside estimating firms.
Reviews continually evolving design documents and estimates prepared at each stage of the design by the project estimators or outside estimating firms to ensure the projects are tracking on budget. Includes working with project teams located in various cities and countries.
Performs function of lead estimator for large scopes of work, which requires supervision of in-house or contracted estimating resources, as scope of work indicates.
Assists project team with contractor change order negotiation on larger scopes.
Researches market conditions for cost trends and local means and methods (both locally and internationally). Develops location cost factors and escalation factors. Analyze Universal Creative historical costs and disseminate to appropriate year and location. Incorporates current and historic costs into a central database. Develops comparisons for various attractions and non-attraction facilities.
Develop conceptual Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates for projects prior to and in Blue Sky Phase to develop initial costs for business unit financial analysis.
Creates “value engineering” (VE) components with the project team to mitigate cost overruns.
Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Influences decisions of major nature requiring high degree of tact and diplomacy to obtain favorable results. Supervises work of 4 to 6 estimators and/or multiple outside estimating firms, as scope of work requires. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Individual must be capable of presenting their cost estimates to upper management level positions, including Presidents of Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, and President and Chief Operating Officer for Universal Parks & Resorts. In addition, individual will be required to interface with our third-party clients on International projects for large scale Resort and Theme Park developments.

SCOPE

Individual will be responsible for developing detailed estimates to support the submittal and approval process for all major capital projects that are managed by Universal Creative. Projects will range from $5-500 million for individual facilities, hotels, and attractions, and up to $1-2 billion for International Theme Park development. In addition, this individual will be responsible for the development of a comprehensive database from the past projects to assist in the improvement of the accuracy of our project budgeting on all projects.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineer in related business fields is required. Master’s degree in Construction Management or Business Administration preferred.

EXPERIENCE

10-15 years’ on-site construction and estimating experience on retail, food, hotel, theme parks and themed entertainment projects, knowledge of show and ride estimating and facility impacts required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 15-20 years’ on-site construction and estimating experience for owners and/or contractors for in the Resort/Entertainment field of commercial construction; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.

Our Brand Pillars

These pillars are the foundation of Universal Creative and reflect the values we embody every day.

We are Innovative

We innovate the future. We push the envelope by fusing art and technology to create immersive and unforgettable experiences.

We are Diverse

We believe we are all capable of doing more than one thing. We achieve the extraordinary by embracing the diverse abilities of our Team Members.

We are Empowered

We push ourselves to be our best. We lead change and solve problems, because the next thing we do should always be better than the last thing we did.

We are Authentic

We want you to be you. We believe that the unique and bold spirit of our team is what fuels our unbridled creativity and unparalleled innovation.

Spice Up Your Career

Looking for not just a job, but a career opportunity? Keeping our kitchens and dishes clean can be just the beginning. Working as a Steward will allow you to work directly with our Chefs and get hands-on experience to grow within our Culinary team. Additional Culinary Team Member perks include:

Work shoes
Opportunity for cross training and working in exciting new venues
Meal vouchers
Opportunities to advance, based on skill and available positions, to a full-time career in Culinary

A Universe of Opportunities

Administration team member seated in a chair with library of books behind her

Universal Orlando’s Administration division supports our entire business operation. As strategic partners, these teams take active roles to assist the organization and drive successful business decisions. And, as an industry leader, our Administration teams strive to maintain our position as a top employer and community partner. Career opportunities include:

Human Resources
Facilities Management
Legal & External Affairs
Community Relations
Environmental Health & Safety

A Universe of Opportunities

A Entrance Operations Team Member is helping guests scan their tickets at the Entrance to Universal Studios. She is smiling down at two children who are entering the park

It’s never a dull day in Entrance Operations! Our Team Members in Entrance Operations have the unique opportunity of being the first point of contact with our guests and help their day start with a smile. Join the Entrance Operations team in the following roles:

Turnstile Attendant
Vacation Planner
Guest Services

A Universe of Opportunities

A Food and Beverage Manager assists a Team Member complete a transaction at the cash register.

Our Revenue Operations Team Members and their Leaders make a lasting impact on our Guest’s experience at Univer- sal Orlando Resort. From Merchandise to Food and Beverage, our Revenue Operations Leaders assure that operations run smoothly creating the best environment for our Team Members and Guests. Bring your leadership skills to the Revenue Operations team in one of the following departments:

Merchandise
Food and Beverage

A Look at Universal Epic Universe

Gold Compass with dark blue center. Text Universal Epic Universe appears on top of it.

Celestial Park is the cosmic heart of Universal Epic Universe, where wondrous discoveries await among the lush greenery, tree-lined walkways and dancing fountains. Begin your cosmic journey of discovery in a world between worlds full of sensory delights for all to enjoy together.

Universal Creative Internship Video Transcript

[Ariel] The Universal Creative internship program is full of extraordinary opportunities for interns to gain hands-on work experience. [Jeff] Ever since I was a little kid, I always wanted to take part in designing spaces that creates some of the fondest memories for people. [Griffin] The idea of blending technology, engineering, and storytelling really spoke out to me. And I wanted to be an environment where I could learn for those who really know what they're doing. [Ariel] I looked and the job description was amazing. It was literally everything that I've ever wanted out of an internship. [Ana] Some of the cool things that I've been able to do is see a lot of behind the scenes about how the park is run, and just envisioning the future worlds of tomorrow. It's been a really cool experience just to see what's coming up. [Carey] I've done some really cool attraction walkthroughs. I've got to walk through Hulk and Kong Skull Island and Forbidden Journey, and those were really incredible experiences. [Griffin] I think the cool thing about the Universal Creative internship is, you have a lot of opportunities to work with others and do what you want to do. [Jeff] I never expected any sort of company to be like this. [Emily] I really feel like I can be myself here. Everyone's been so opening and welcome. I don't have to put on a mask. I don't have to be somebody that I'm not. I can just be my genuine, authentic self. [Carey] I would say the culture at Creative is really a community and teamwork based. [Ariel] Everyone's so invested into the interns, and that's something unique. [Ana] You can ask a question and you'll always get an answer. [Tyler] Everyone's always happy and I'm willing to help you out when you're trying to learn something new, or you don't know how to do something. [Griffin] And as a student, it's very important to get that career guidance as you go on through more classes, and it's been a really great opportunity to get that in a very open environment. [Carey] For future interns, I would just say network and learn as much as you can. It's a really incredible opportunity and everyone wants to help you out. [Emily] Embrace your time here. Take advantage of your time here because it goes by so fast. [Ana] There's no such thing as you're only doing one job here. [Griffin] You have a lot of opportunities to go outside of your scope of work as an intern. So use it as an opportunity to absorb everything like a sponge. [Ana] Join the Universal Creative team. The possibilities are endless.

Team Member Journey

“I was always a fan of Universal Orlando Resort and visited the parks frequently growing up, so when I was ready for my first job while in high school, I knew this was the place I wanted to be. But I never imagined that my part-time job would turn into an exciting career! The ability to grow within the organization is one of the things I love most about Universal Orlando. Growth is an important part of the culture and no matter where you begin your journey, there’s opportunity to explore different areas and find your passion. I also love that there’s always something new and exciting happening at our destination for guests, including new attractions, events and more. The constant rollout of innovative new experiences makes it extremely fun and rewarding to be a part of the team!”

Kristen

Director, Public Relations

Kristen's Career Journey

2001

Ride & Show Attendant (The E.T. Adventure)
Public Relations Intern

2006
Spring & Summer 2007

Event Management Temporary Assignment
Corporate Sales Coordinator

Fall 2007
2008

Public Relations Coordinator
Public Relations Representative

2010
2013

Manager, Public Relations
Sr. Manager, Public Relations

2019
2023

Director, Public Relations

Team Member Journey

“Universal Studios was a huge part of my childhood growing up, introducing me to some of my favorite films like Back to the Future. As an adult, the development of interactive wands for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ really opened my mind to the possibilities for creative applications of interactive technology. Since working at Universal Creative, it has become clear why such innovative experiences are not only possible but encouraged. Our work culture is incredibly inclusive and motivating of outside the box thinking and collaboration which leads to world class experiences for our guests. Additionally, the work environment at Universal Creative has been critical to my personal career development. I am regularly encouraged to ask questions, to take creative ownership of my work, to seek out development opportunities for my skills, and to collaborate with my peers across the company. I’ve had the honor of working on multiple world class experiences with Universal Creative and I’m eagerly looking forward to the next challenge.”

Anthony

Software Developer, Universal Creative

Anthony's Career Journey

2016

Intern, Engineering
Technical Coordinator

2017
2017

Associate Software Developer
Software Developer

2020

Team Member Journey

"To me, Universal is a community of passionate, knowledgeable people who are driven to create great impact for our guests and Team Members. In an environment like this, the work I do and the people with whom I have the privilege of partnering makes daily work feel interesting and exciting. I always say I could do what I do for a living anywhere, but I am privileged to do this work here. Our culture allows for learning and movement, and I’ve been lucky to grow by learning from a variety of experiences, including internships, mentoring, park shifts, Team Member advocacy and event support, volunteering, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team Member Resource Groups. When I ask, “Can I learn about your team and what you do?” I am always given an enthusiastic, welcoming response by leaders across our universe. As I’ve grown here, I’ve watched Universal also grow - opening new parks, rides, and restaurants; growing our footprint across the world; and introducing innovative and cool experiences. It feels like it is always an exciting time to be here, and I can’t wait to be a part of the amazing things we’ll do next!”

Anisa

Sr. Manager, Organizational Development (Former UO Intern)

Anisa's Career Journey

2005

Intern in Organizational Development
Assorted work around HR

2006
2007

Talent Acquisition Interviewer
Rep, Org Development

2008
2011

Sr Rep, Org Development
Specialist, Org Development

2013
2016

Manager, Org Development
Sr Manager, Org Development

2019

A Universe of Global Opportunities

Universal Orlando Resort is an all-in-one entertainment destination that includes Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s Volcano Bay, Universal CityWalk and Universal Orlando Resort hotels. We bring unforgettable experiences alive for our guests, immersing them in legendary stories, fantastic journeys, exciting nightlife and more.