Estimator Substations
Substation Estimator
Position Summary
Key Responsibilities
- Review RFQs, RFPs, ITBs, contract documents, drawings, specifications, and other bid materials.
- Develop detailed cost estimates for new substation construction, expansions, upgrades, and maintenance projects.
- Quantify labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and indirect costs required to complete projects.
- Solicit and evaluate quotations from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
- Prepare detailed takeoffs from engineering drawings and specifications.
- Analyze project risks, schedule requirements, and constructability considerations.
- Develop and maintain estimating databases, labor productivity rates, and unit-cost information.
- Participate in bid strategy meetings and proposal development activities.
- Collaborate with engineering, operations, procurement, and project management teams to ensure estimates align with project execution plans.
- Attend site visits and pre-bid meetings as required.
- Prepare bid summaries, estimate reviews, and executive-level pricing recommendations.
- Assist with change order pricing, budget development, and project cost forecasting.
- Maintain knowledge of industry trends, utility standards, electrical codes, and market conditions affecting project costs.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field; equivalent industry experience will be considered.
- 3+ years of estimating experience in electrical construction, utility, power delivery, or substation projects.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical one-line diagrams, construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
- Strong understanding of substation equipment including transformers, breakers, switches, relays, control buildings, foundations, grounding systems, and bus systems.
- Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Excel.
- Knowledge of construction means, methods, sequencing, and productivity factors.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of electrical utility or substation estimating experience.
- Experience estimating projects up to 500kV transmission substations.
- Knowledge of utility and EPC project delivery methods.
- Experience with conceptual, budgetary, and hard-bid estimating.
- Familiarity with Primavera P6, Bluebeam, Accubid, HeavyBid, InEight, or similar estimating platforms.
- Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or related industry credentials.
Key Competencies
- Cost Analysis
- Electrical Systems Knowledge
- Quantity Takeoff Development
- Contract Review
- Risk Assessment
- Vendor and Subcontractor Management
- Proposal Development
- Budgeting and Forecasting
- Negotiation Support
- Attention to Detail
Physical and Travel Requirements
- Ability to conduct occasional site visits to active construction projects.
- Ability to travel as required for pre-bid meetings, site walks, and customer meetings.
- Ability to work in both office and field environments.
Performance Metrics
- Estimate accuracy
- Bid volume and turnaround time
- Win rate on targeted opportunities
- Cost database maintenance
- Risk identification and mitigation
- Internal and external customer satisfaction
- Junior Substation Estimator: 0-3 years experience
- Substation Estimator: 3-7 years experience
- Senior Substation Estimator: 7+ years experience with independent bid leadership
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
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