Electrical Chief Estimator

Chief Estimator

The Chief Estimator leads the electrical estimating department and oversees the full bid process for commercial and industrial electrical construction projects. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates while mentoring estimators, improving estimating processes, and supporting overall business growth. The position requires deep technical expertise in electrical systems combined with strong leadership and strategic planning capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of electrical estimators, including project assignments, coaching, and performance management.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and overhead.
• Review project plans, specifications, blueprints, and addenda to ensure full scope coverage.
• Perform or supervise quantity take-offs, pricing, and bid assembly using estimating software.
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate pricing from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Provide pricing and estimating support for change orders on awarded projects.
• Develop and maintain standardized estimating procedures, templates, and cost databases.
• Collaborate with project managers and leadership on bid strategies and value engineering.
• Analyze historical project data to improve estimating accuracy and processes.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and client presentations as needed.
• Ensure estimates comply with electrical codes, industry standards, and safety requirements.
• Monitor market trends, labor rates, and material pricing to maintain competitive bids.
• Track and analyze bid outcomes to refine future estimating strategies.
• Support business development through client relationship building and project selection input.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 10+ years of electrical estimating experience in commercial and/or industrial construction.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership or supervisory experience managing estimators.
• Proven success estimating projects from $1M to multi-million-dollar ranges.
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, power distribution, lighting, and controls.
• In-depth understanding of NEC codes and construction methodologies.
• Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and meet tight deadlines.
• Valid driver's license with ability to travel for site visits as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Accubid, TraSer, and LiveCount estimating software.
• Familiarity with BidTracer platforms.
• Knowledge of NECA Manual of Labor Rates or similar standards.
• Change order estimating and management experience.
• Project exposure within education, healthcare, government, or data center sectors.