Senior Estimator
Role Type: Internal Standard
Reporting To: Estimating Manager
Location: Houston, TX
Role Summary
The Senior Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for complex industrial electrical projects. This role supports strategic growth by applying technical expertise to high-stakes bids, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring that estimated projects are buildable and commercially viable.
Core Accountabilities
- Bid Precision: Ensure final estimates reflect the true cost of execution while protecting company margins.
- Technical Rigor: Deliver high-volume, technically sound output using CEC standard takeoff and pricing methodologies.
- Operational Alignment: Partner with the field to ensure productivity and equipment assumptions are realistic.
- Risk Mitigation: Ensure proposal language properly identifies and mitigates project risks.
- Market Competitiveness: Coordinate with Procurement to secure the most competitive vendor and subcontractor pricing.
Execution Responsibilities
I. Estimating Strategy & Oversight
- Develop conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, and value-engineering analyses for various project types.
- Execute consistent 2D and 3D takeoff standards utilizing Bluebeam and Navisworks.
- Perform technical reviews of estimates to ensure accuracy before final submission.
II. Bid Management & Coordination
- Manage assigned bid tasks to meet strict deadlines for new opportunities and project revisits.
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walk-downs, and internal "go/no-go" reviews.
- Assign and oversee work for junior estimators or associates to ensure overall bid quality.
III. Operational Alignment & Handoff
- Collaborate with Operations to develop project execution plans and manpower curves during the bid phase.
- Lead "Estimate-to-Project" handoff meetings to ensure Project Managers understand budget and scope assumptions.
- Update labor unit and material databases with "Lessons Learned" from completed projects.
Measures of Success
- Winning profitable work.
- Bid accuracy and margin retention (Minimal variance between estimated vs. actual costs).
- Timely completion of all bid submissions and internal handoff packages.
- Standardization of estimating templates and takeoff workflows.
- Development and retention of junior estimating talent.
- Positive alignment and feedback from the Operations and Executive teams.
Experience & Qualifications
- Experience: 8+ years in E&I estimating. Strong preference for experience in Industrial (Refineries, Plastics), Fabrication (Modules, MCCs), and Renewables (Solar, BESS).
- Background: QA/QC or Project Controls experience is a significant benefit.
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Technical Proficiency: Mastery of Excel, Bluebeam Revu, and Navisworks.
- Communication: Ability to defend "the number" with technical precision during client negotiations and internal reviews.
Working Conditions
- Combination of office and field environments.
- Ability to lift 20 pounds and work safely in active construction environments.
- Ability to work on-site in Corpus Christi or Houston, TX.
- Some overnight travel to attend Business Development, negotiations, kick-off and other required meetings.
Employment Conditions
- Subject to satisfactory background check and drug/alcohol screening
- Must have a Valid Driver's License
- Ability to work extended hours as required by project demands
- Must comply with all company safety policies and procedures
Compensation & Benefits
- Base Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with experience, scope of responsibility, and demonstrated capability.
- Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options available for employees and eligible dependents.
- Retirement Benefits: Participation in the company 401(k) plan, including employer matching, subject to plan terms and eligibility.
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, holidays, and paid time off policies consistent with role responsibilities and business needs.
