Methods and systems for cost-minimizing job scheduling are disclosed. A definition of a task is received. The definition comprises a need-by time. The need-by time comprises a deadline for completion of execution of the task. An estimated duration to complete the execution of the task is determined for each of a plurality of computing resources. One or more of the computing resources are selected based on an estimated cost of completing the execution using the computing resources. The execution of the task is initiated at a scheduled time using the selected one or more computing resources. The scheduled time is earlier than the need-by time by at least the estimated duration.