Unit Price
A Unit Price is a way of pricing construction work where contractors charge based on individual units of work (like per square foot, per cubic yard, or per linear foot) rather than one total project cost. It's commonly used in construction bidding and contracts when the exact quantity of work isn't known upfront. For example, instead of giving one price for an entire road project, a contractor might quote prices per mile of road or per ton of asphalt. This method helps both contractors and clients manage costs when project quantities might change during construction. Other terms for this concept include "price per unit," "measured price," or "rate-based pricing."
Examples in Resumes
Managed projects worth $2M using Unit Price contract methods
Prepared over 50 successful bids using Unit Price and Price Per Unit calculations
Saved client 15% on project costs through effective Unit Price negotiation and quantity tracking
Typical job title: "Construction Estimators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Construction Estimators
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle significant quantity variations in a unit price contract?
Expected Answer: A senior estimator should explain processes for tracking quantity changes, negotiating price adjustments for volume changes, and managing contract terms that protect both parties when quantities vary significantly from initial estimates.
Q: How do you determine whether to use unit pricing or lump sum for a project?
Expected Answer: Should discuss evaluating project uncertainties, risk factors, client preferences, and market conditions to choose the most appropriate pricing method.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you calculate overhead and profit in unit pricing?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to factor in direct costs, indirect costs, and desired profit margins while staying competitive in the market.
Q: What factors do you consider when developing unit prices for different work items?
Expected Answer: Should mention labor rates, material costs, equipment costs, production rates, and market conditions as key factors in determining unit prices.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between unit price and lump sum contracts?
Expected Answer: Should explain that unit price contracts charge by individual units of work while lump sum provides one total price for the entire project.
Q: How do you measure and verify quantities for unit price work?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic measurement methods, documentation requirements, and importance of clear quantity tracking.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic quantity takeoffs
- Simple unit price calculations
- Understanding of construction materials
- Basic spreadsheet skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed cost analysis
- Contract document interpretation
- Quantity surveying
- Bid preparation
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex project estimation
- Risk assessment
- Contract negotiation
- Team management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to read construction drawings
- No experience with quantity takeoffs
- Lack of knowledge about construction materials and methods
- Poor math skills or attention to detail
Related Terms
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