**Estimator
**
PURPOSE***
This operating procedure establishes and describes the authority, reporting relationships, duties and responsibilities, and performance standards of the Estimator.
The Estimator’s primary function is to develop accurate, comprehensive estimates that account for all job-related costs and apply appropriate markups to meet company profitability goals.
The Estimator is responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with customers, contractors, and vendors, representing professionally, and enhancing the company’s reputation in the industry and community.
In addition, the Estimator is expected to collaborate with colleagues, assist, and provide guidance and training to new estimators, ensuring consistent estimating practices, knowledge sharing, and team development.
The Estimator is authorized to take any reasonable action necessary to carry out the responsibilities assigned so long as such action does not deviate from established corporate policy and is consistent with sound business judgment.
The Estimator reports to the COO. There are no positions that report to the Estimator.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree Construction Management, Electrical Technology, Engineering, or related field (preferred).
Three to five years of experience as a Journey-level Electrician (preferred).
Proficiency using Windows-based operating systems and Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
Ability to read and interpret construction blueprints (all trades), specifications, contracts, and other project documents.
Minimum two years of experience using a recognized electrical estimating platform (e.g., Trimble Accubid, McCormick) with the ability to learn and transition to ConEst IntelliBid Software.
Experience preparing detailed material takeoffs and labor estimates for commercial/industrial electrical projects.
Current knowledge of electrical materials, equipment, installation methods, and industry trends.
Strong ability to analyze drawings, specifications, RFIs, addendums, and technical reports.
Ability to write clear proposals, bid clarifications, and business correspondence.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work with limited standardization across projects.
Proficiency with electrical estimating software, Microsoft Office, PDF markup tools (e.g., Bluebeam), and databases.
Understanding of job costing, markup strategies, profit analysis, and basic accounting principles.
Strong numeracy skills to perform and verify estimating calculations with accuracy.
Effective communication skills (verbal and written) with customers, contractors, vendors, and internal staff.
Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-oriented when dealing with customers, contractors, and field personnel.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to work under deadlines and manage multiple bids simultaneously.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as part of a collaborative estimating team.
The Estimator’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Collaborate with Sales Representatives in preparing estimates, bids, and quotes.
Maintain and update product and pricing databases within ConEst InteliBid.
Obtain competitive vendor and subcontractor pricing as required for accurate bids.
Participate in sales calls or customer meetings when needed to support the bidding process.
Communicate effectively with customers, contractors, suppliers, and internal departments.
Assist the Production Manager and field staff by answering questions related to scope, materials, and labor assumptions.
Provide materials lists and estimated labor breakdowns for awarded projects.
Assist Accounting with purchase orders or cost-related inquiries as necessary.
Maintain current knowledge of industry standards, material changes, and code requirements.
Support enforcement of company policies procedures, and safety practices.
Provide mentoring, cooperation, and assistance in training new estimators to ensure consistent estimating practices across the team.
The Estimator’s duties include, but are not limited to:
Thoroughly review all bid specifications, drawings, and related documents for assigned projects.
Accurately prepare detailed estimates, including quantity takeoffs, labor units, material pricing, subcontractor quotes, and equipment costs.
Complete and submit estimates on or before the required bid deadline.
Prepare material lists and coordinate material needs for awarded projects.
Assist with project handoff to production, ensuring all needed information is accurate and documented
Perform revisions or add alternates as required by bid documents or customer requests.
Perform any other duties assigned by the COO.
The Estimator shall be deemed to be performing in an acceptable manner when the following have been accomplished:
Material quantities estimated fall within 5% of actual usage.
Estimates are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Positive internal and external feedback regarding communication, professionalism, and teamwork.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
BODY POSITIONS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for prolonged periods of time.
BODY MOVEMENTS: The employee must have a full range of body movements including use of hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, computer equipment and peripherals; and bending, reaching, and crouching.
BODY SENSES: Must have command of all five senses, sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. These vision requirements in each area must be sufficient to shift in focus from computer screens to close forms.
STRENGTH: Must have the ability to lift 25 pounds with regularity.
The majority of work will be in a climate controlled, non-smoking office with occasional travel for work related functions. Normal auto and air travel hazards will apply. Travel may be in all types of weather including heavy rain and below freezing temperatures with snow conditions. Workdays will typically be 8-10 hours per day but could include some early mornings and late evenings.