Cost Segregation Associate

About the Role

Leyton is seeking a Cost Segregation Associate with an engineering or construction background to join its national Cost Segregation practice. This role is suitable for a recent graduate or early-career engineer looking to apply technical skills in a specialized advisory field. The Associate will work closely with the Engineering Lead and senior consultants, receiving structured training and mentorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Cost Segregation Studies
• Assist in preparing engineering-based cost segregation studies for acquired, newly constructed, and renovated properties.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, contractor pay applications, invoices, closing statements, and fixed-asset records.
• Identify, quantify, and classify building components for tax depreciation purposes.
• Evaluate electrical, plumbing, HVAC, structural, interior finish, and site improvement systems.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare cost estimates using actual cost documentation and recognized estimating resources.
• Build calculations, supporting schedules, and draft sections of technical reports.
• Document assumptions and sources clearly for review and defense.
• Quality & Accuracy
• Self-review workbooks and calculations before submitting for review.
• Ensure consistency between source documents, cost allocations, and depreciation schedules.
• Flag missing documentation, unclear data, or potential classification issues to senior team members.
• Apply reviewer feedback and follow standardized QC checklists and procedures.
• Construction & Building Systems Analysis
• Read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings.
• Allocate construction costs across building systems and individual assets.
• Support analysis of acquisition, renovation, and new construction projects.
• Participate in site inspections or review remote walkthroughs and property photographs, as appropriate.
• Project Support & Collaboration
• Support assigned studies from technical intake through internal review.
• Coordinate with project managers and consultants on missing documentation or questions.
• Communicate progress, delays, and issues promptly.
• Maintain organized project files and documentation.
• Meet assigned production deadlines.
• Learning & Continuous Improvement
• Build expertise in IRS cost segregation guidance, MACRS depreciation, and property classifications.
• Utilize and suggest improvements for standardized engineering workbooks, templates, and procedures.
• Assist in testing automation and AI-assisted document analysis tools.
• Participate in team training and knowledge-sharing sessions.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Education
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, or Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related field.
• Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Required
• 0–2 years of experience in engineering, construction, cost estimating, or a related technical field (internships and co-ops count).
• Basic understanding of commercial building construction, building systems, and construction materials.
• Ability to read architectural and engineering drawings, or strong coursework in this area.
• Solid Excel skills, including formulas and organizing data in structured workbooks.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Eagerness to learn, take feedback, and grow in a technical consulting role.
• Ability to manage several tasks and meet deadlines.
• Preferred
• Internship or co-op experience in construction, estimating, engineering design, or real estate.
• Exposure to quantity takeoffs, cost estimating, or RSMeans.
• Interest in tax, depreciation, or commercial real estate.
• Familiarity with Bluebeam, AutoCAD, Revit, or other construction document software.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or progress toward it.

Compensation & Benefits

• $60,000 – $78,000 base salary, depending on experience.
• Eligible for variable compensation based on completed study delivery.
• 18 days (144 hours) of accrued PTO per year.
• 5 days (40 hours) of accrued sick leave.
• 401(k) with employer matching.
• Medical, dental, vision, prescription, and paramedical coverage.

Growth & Culture

• Clear path to Consultant and Senior Consultant roles.
• Structured training and direct mentorship from an experienced Engineering Lead.
• International training through Leyton Academy.
• Work From Anywhere: up to one month per year (subject to approval).
• Work From Any Leyton Office: up to two weeks per year (subject to approval).
• Quarterly team events, volunteer opportunities, and a supportive, inclusive workplace.