Civil Engineering Technician how-to

How to Do a Quantity Takeoff

Takeoffs drive estimates.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Takeoffs drive estimates. In short: review; list; measure, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review the plans.

  2. List items to measure.

  3. Measure lengths, areas and volumes.

  4. Apply waste factors.

  5. Total quantities.

  6. Have someone check.

Safety reminders for civil engineering technicians

  • Wear PPE on sites
  • Follow nuclear gauge safety
  • Watch for traffic and equipment
  • Stay out of unprotected trenches

Slump test · Compaction · Proctor test · Compressive strength · Aggregate · Asphalt: see the full civil engineering technician glossary.

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