About this Role:The
Electrical Cost Estimator is responsible for the development and delivery of conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for electrical systems, including power distribution, lighting, low-voltage systems, and site utilities. This role independently performs quantity take-offs, develops pricing, and applies market intelligence, historical benchmarking data, and company standards to produce accurate and defensible cost deliverables.
The Electrical Cost Estimator works collaboratively with project teams, design consultants, and clients to evaluate system scope, construction methodologies, and cost drivers. This position requires a strong understanding of electrical systems, estimating principles, and construction practices, with the ability to contribute to cost planning, risk identification, and value engineering efforts across multiple projects.
Work is primarily performed in an office environment, with periodic travel for project site visits, client meetings, and field validation. This position reports to senior cost management leadership and operates with a high degree of autonomy while supporting overall project delivery objectives.
Key Responsibilities:- Develop electrical cost estimates across all design phases:
- Conceptual / Parametric
- Schematic Design
- Design Development
- Construction Documents
- Perform detailed quantity take-offs and system-level quantification for:
- Power distribution systems (medium and low voltage)
- Lighting systems and controls
- Low-voltage systems (telecommunications, data, security, fire alarm)
- Site and underground electrical utilities
- Analyze drawings, specifications, and design narratives to define complete electrical scope and identify gaps or coordination issues
- Develop unit pricing utilizing:
- Historical cost data
- Industry databases (e.g., RS Means, MCASES MII)
- Subcontractor/vendor input
- Market intelligence and regional labor conditions
- Coordinate with internal disciplines (architectural, structural, civil, mechanical) to ensure alignment and completeness of estimate inputs
- Prepare and maintain detailed estimate backup, assumptions, clarifications, and Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation
- Participate in estimate reviews, reconciliation meetings, and design coordination discussions with internal teams and external stakeholders
- Identify cost drivers, escalation impacts, procurement risks (e.g., switchgear, transformers, generators), and constructability considerations affecting electrical systems
- Support value engineering and cost optimization efforts through system comparisons, alternate analysis, and lifecycle considerations
- Assist in evaluating subcontractor proposals, bid comparisons, and change order pricing related to electrical scope
- Maintain organized project documentation and ensure traceability of quantities, pricing, and assumptions
- Support QA/QC processes by validating quantities, pricing logic, and estimate completeness prior to submission
Qualifications/Requirements: - Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Approximately 5-8 years of experience in electrical estimating or related construction cost roles
- Experience supporting a variety of project types and delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, CMAR, Design-Build)
- Demonstrated ability to develop estimates with increasing independence and technical responsibility
- Scheduling experience preferred with knowledge of Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project
- Solid understanding of electrical systems including:
- Power distribution (utility service, switchgear, panels, feeders)
- Lighting systems and controls
- Fire alarm and life safety systems
- Low-voltage/data/communications systems
- Emergency power systems (generators, UPS)
- Underground and site electrical utilities
- Ability to read and interpret:
- Electrical drawings and specifications
- Architectural, structural, mechanical, and civil documents for coordination
- Proficiency in performing detailed quantity take-offs and applying appropriate labor and productivity factors
- Working knowledge of:
- Estimating platforms (e.g., Sage Timberline, MCASES MII, OST, or similar tools)
- Microsoft Excel (intermediate to advanced)
- Cost databases and benchmarking systems
- Understanding of labor impacts, including productivity, escalation, and regional cost factors
Compensation Range:$130,000-$160,000 annually
What's In It For You: - Company-paid life and disability insurance
- Optional benefits like pet insurance, legal, and supplemental health plans
- 401(k) with day-one eligibility. You'll get a 100% match on the first 3% of your eligible compensation and 50% match on contributions between 3% and 5% of your pay.
- Generous time off: 10 paid holidays and PTO starting at 15 days, growing up to 25
- Access to Consertus Academy for continuous learning and development
