Southern Company

Project Estimator

Southern Company • $80K — $95K *
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (ABET-accredited) or Building Science; equivalent experience considered.
  • 3+ years specializing in nuclear plant estimating with on-site walkdowns.
  • Expertise across mechanical, electrical, civil, and instrumentation & controls estimating.
  • Proficiency with estimating software; WinEst preferred.
  • Strong understanding of unit pricing, AACE classifications, and material take-off techniques.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare high-quality project estimates using nuclear-estimating methodologies.
  • Review project scope, drawings, and specifications for gaps or constructability issues.
  • Gather and organize estimate inputs including equipment lists and vendor pricing.
  • Develop labor and material pricing using current craft labor rates.
  • Lead estimate review meetings with project teams and management.
  • Coordinate with Project Controls for budgeting and scheduling alignment.
  • Build strong working relationships with project stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Competitive pay
  • Medical and dental coverage
  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • 401(k) with generous company match
  • Annual bonus opportunities
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Limited relocation assistance may be available.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Project Estimator - Plant Hatch

Location: Plant Hatch - Baxley, Georgia
Openings: 1 Full-Time Position

Job Summary

The Project Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, consistent, and high-quality engineering and construction estimates in support of the Southern Nuclear Company (SNC) Site Projects organization. This position supports modifications across SNC's existing nuclear plants. Responsibilities include preparing conceptual, detailed, and final estimates; supporting change orders; assisting in developing project budgets based on scope and schedule; and ensuring all estimating deliverables meet customer requirements and expectations.

Job Requirements

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (ABET-accredited) or Building Science preferred.
  • Equivalent experience in estimating and/or nuclear construction environments will be considered.

Abilities
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain unescorted access at an SNC nuclear facility.
  • Must be able to perform physical field walkdowns, including climbing stairs, walking uneven surfaces, and working in high-temperature environments.
  • Demonstrates strong attention to detail, accuracy, and independence.
  • Follows SNC Estimating Procedures and established standards.
  • Able to collaborate and influence others to achieve shared goals.

Experience
  • Minimum of 3 years of specialized experience in conceptual and detailed nuclear plant estimating, including on-site walkdowns for scope development.
  • Experience estimating across mechanical, electrical, civil, and instrumentation & controls (I&C) disciplines.
  • Proven ability to develop estimates that accurately reflect implementation costs.
  • Proficiency with estimating software required; WinEst strongly preferred.
  • Experience producing estimate reports and responding to stakeholder questions.
  • Prior nuclear industry experience is a plus.

Knowledge
  • Strong understanding of estimating and material take-off techniques, unit price cost data, AACE classifications, WBS structures, and estimating databases.
  • In-depth knowledge of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) processes in nuclear or heavy industrial environments.
  • Familiarity with cost control and scheduling tools.
  • Understanding of risk analysis, contingency and escalation development.
  • Knowledge of heavy industrial construction methods, nuclear site considerations, and market conditions impacting cost.

Skills
  • Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Effective interpersonal and active listening skills.

Job Responsibilities

1. Estimating
  • Prepare high-quality conceptual, detailed, and final estimates using nuclear-estimating methodologies, complexity factors, and unit rate databases.
  • Review project scope, drawings, and specifications to identify gaps or constructability concerns.
  • Gather and organize estimate inputs including equipment lists, take-offs, vendor pricing, and engineering packages.
  • Develop labor and material pricing using current craft labor rates.
  • Apply WBS and coding structures to support estimate clarity and reporting.
  • Lead estimate review meetings with project teams and management.
  • Coordinate with Project Controls for cash flow, budgeting, cost integration, and schedule alignment.
  • Participate in the estimate approval process.
  • Maintain ability to travel and hold unescorted nuclear access.

2. Customer Relations
  • Participate in meetings with Site Project Controls and Project Management teams.
  • Build strong working relationships to understand customer needs and project goals.
  • Demonstrate SNC's core values in all interactions.

3. Project Planning & Coordination
  • Collaborate with customers and project support personnel to develop accurate and timely project estimates.
  • Work effectively in dynamic environments to ensure on-time, high-quality deliverables.
  • Provide consistent communication on estimate status to customers and management.

Behavioral Attributes
  • Demonstrates SNC Values: Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance.
  • Works effectively as part of a team and contributes to a collaborative environment.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Comprehensive benefits package including:
    • Medical and dental coverage
    • Defined Benefit Pension Plan
    • Performance-sharing plan
    • 401(k) with generous company match
    • Annual bonus opportunities
    • Tuition reimbursement

Relocation
  • Limited relocation assistance may be available.

Please ensure your resume is updated and included with your application.

About the Team

Southern Company Services

About Southern Company

With 4.4 million customers and more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity, Atlanta-based Southern Company is the premier energy company serving the Southeast. A leading U.S. producer of electricity, Southern Company owns electric utilities in four states and a growing competitive generation company, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and retail electric prices that are significantly below the national average. Southern Company has been listed the top ranking U.S. electric service provider in customer satisfaction for nine consecutive years by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Southern Company Careers

Join the dynamic team at Southern Company, a leader in energy innovation and a champion of sustainable practices. As one of the most respected companies in the energy sector, Southern Company offers unparalleled job opportunities that promise not only professional growth but also a commitment to diversity and leadership development.

Work You’ll Do

At Southern Company, we are not just about power generation; we are about empowering our team to innovate and lead the industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, using your skills to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Explore a World of Opportunities

Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Southern Company has a place for you. Our wide range of employment options ensures that every team member can find a path that best suits their career ambitions and skills.

Innovate and Lead

Southern Company is at the forefront of technological innovation in the energy sector. Our team members are encouraged to lead projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible in energy production and management.

Grow and Develop

We believe in nurturing the potential of our employees through targeted diversity training, leadership workshops, and continuous professional development. Career growth at Southern Company is not just a possibility—it is an expectation.

Be Part of Our Culture

Southern Company’s culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and inclusion. We celebrate diversity and believe that it drives innovation. Our team is our family, and we support each other in achieving personal and professional goals.

Benefits That Go Beyond

Choosing a career at Southern Company means enjoying a range of benefits designed to enrich your life and support your lifestyle. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Ready to power up your career? Explore the job opportunities at Southern Company today. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven individuals. Enhance your skills, join a community of innovators, and work towards a sustainable future.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Southern Company by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and practical tips to advance your career.

Networking and Career Advancement

At Southern Company, networking and internal mobility are key components of career advancement. Connect with leaders, engage in cross-departmental projects, and take your professional journey to new heights.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make your mark from the first interview. Visit our career site for tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and making a lasting impression.

Join Southern Company—where careers glow brighter!

SEARCH SOUTHERN COMPANY JOBS Stay ahead of the curve in your career with Southern Company, where innovation meets tradition and every employee is empowered to excel.
Learn more about Southern Company
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$77.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+3%
Revenue
$20.3 billion

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Southern Company

More Energy & Utilities Jobs

Find similar Project Estimator jobs: