Cost estimators

Cost estimators collect and analyze data to determine the time, money, resources and labor required for product manufacturing, construction projects or services. Some specialize in a particular industry or product type.

The pay: The median annual wage of cost estimators was $57,860 in May 2010.

The prospects: Employment of cost estimators is expected to grow by 20 percent in the Finger Lakes region between 2010 and 2020, with 40 annual job openings.

The preparation: A bachelor's degree is generally required for entering the occupation. However, some highly experienced construction workers with analytical abilities may qualify without a bachelor's degree.

Sources: New York State Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor.

Employment opportunities for cost estimators in the Finger Lakes region are expected to grow a hearty 20 percent between 2010 and 2020, with 40 annual job openings, according to the New York State Department of Labor.