Senior Manager - Estimating (Power & Utility Construction)(Transmission | Substations | Utility Construction | Industrial EPC | Renewable Energy)
Location: Neenah, WI
Employment Type: Full-Time
Travel: ~25% Required
Position ObjectiveThe
Senior Manager - Estimating provides strategic leadership for regional estimating operations, focusing on
team development, performance alignment, and cross-functional partnership.
This role is responsible for building a high-performing estimating organization, strengthening collaboration with Regional Managers, Project Management, Procurement, and Operations teams, and ensuring estimating efforts align with overall business strategy and customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities- Champion a strong safety culture across all estimating activities and team interactions
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of estimators, building a pipeline of future leaders and strengthening overall team capability
- Create a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth within the estimating team
- Assign bids strategically based on team strengths, development goals, and business priorities
- Provide leadership oversight on major estimates, guiding teams to deliver accurate, high-quality, and competitive bids
Leadership Development & Team Growth- Coach and develop estimators through hands-on mentorship, feedback, and career development planning
- Identify skill gaps and implement targeted development strategies to elevate individual and team performance
- Foster a collaborative, high-engagement environment that attracts, develops, and retains top talent
- Lead by example in reinforcing Michels' culture, values, and leadership expectations
- Support succession planning and long-term workforce development within the estimating function
Cross-Functional Collaboration- Partner closely with Regional Managers, Project Managers, Engineering, and Operations teams to align estimating strategies with project execution goals
- Collaborate with Procurement to develop competitive sourcing strategies and strengthen vendor and subcontractor relationships
- Work across departments to ensure project scopes, risks, and constructability considerations are well understood and incorporated into estimates
- Facilitate alignment between estimating, project management, and field leadership to improve project handoff and execution success
- Represent estimating in cross-functional planning discussions, helping drive informed decision-making at the organizational level
Strategic Estimating Oversight- Guide the team in interpreting plans, specifications, and risk factors, ensuring consistent and informed bid strategies
- Facilitate resolution of complex estimating challenges by removing obstacles and coordinating resources
- Drive the adoption of best practices, tools, and standardized processes across the estimating function
- Support customer interactions, pre-bid meetings, and industry engagement opportunities
- Promote Michels' brand, culture, and commitment to excellence in all interactions
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 8+ years of relevant experience in construction, estimating, or preconstruction leadership
- Proven experience leading teams, developing talent, and driving organizational performance
- Strong negotiation and contract review experience
- Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record
Preferred Qualifications- Utility or power infrastructure experience (transmission, distribution, substations)
- Experience leading estimating teams within an EPC or heavy civil/industrial environment
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office and estimating software
- Project Management experience or cross-functional leadership exposure
Managerial Developmental Competencies- Decision Quality
- Cultivates Innovation
- Resourcefulness
- Directs Work
- Ensures Accountability
- Collaborates
- Manages Conflict
- Attracts, Develops, and Retains Talent
- Builds Effective Teams
- Drives Engagement
- Managerial Courage
- Being Resilient
- Situational Adaptability
Work Environment & Physical Demands- Primarily office-based in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
- Frequent interaction with cross-functional teams and senior leadership
- Occasional field visits for site reviews and pre-bid meetings
- Travel required (~25%)
- Physical requirements include:
- Regular desk work and computer use
- Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds
- Close and color vision with focus adjustment
Comprehensive Benefits- Health, Dental, and Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Legal Assistance and Identity Theft Protection Plans
(Benefits may vary based on position and location)
Join a company that powers progress. Be a part of Michels Power, Inc.- where you don't just build projects, you build a career.
