Project Estimator-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

This position is designed to be filled at the Project Estimator level; however, candidates with advanced experience in power-related estimating, demonstrated leadership in developing complex estimates, and a strong track record of managing large-scale projects may be considered for hire at the Senior Project Estimator level. Project Estimator/ Sr. Project Cost Estimator - Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure Location: Columbus, OH / Valparaiso, IN / Project Sites / Hybrid Job Type: Full-Time Job Summary At NiSource, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy to the communities we serve. We are seeking a Senior Project Estimator to support the development and execution of major capital power and energy infrastructure projects. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that cost estimates are accurate, transparent, and aligned with regulatory expectations, supporting sound investment decisions and long‑term planning. The Senior Project Estimator partners across engineering, project development, supply chain, and construction teams to develop estimates that reflect technical scope, market conditions, and execution strategy. Projects may include: Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) generation Simple cycle / peaking generation Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Renewable energy (solar, wind) Transmission interconnections and substations Grid improvement technologies Key Responsibilities Cost Estimating & Analysis Lead development of Class 5 through Class 1 estimates in alignment with AACE principles. Prepare total installed cost (TIC) estimates including EPC, owner's costs, contingency, and escalation. Perform quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings, specifications, and conceptual designs. Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs. Clearly define estimate bases, assumptions, exclusions, and methodologies. Prepare estimate packages that are suitable for governance reviews and investment decisions, including basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, key risks, and confidence ranges. Capital Planning & Regulatory Support Support capital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long‑term investment strategies. Provide cost inputs to support regulatory filings, rate cases, and investment approvals. Develop estimate ranges and confidence levels aligned to project stage and governance requirements. Evaluate alternative project configurations and execution strategies to support least‑cost, best‑fit solutions. Technical Integration & Project Development Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems, including: Gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, and balance of plant Electrical systems, substations, and grid interconnection Energy storage systems (BESS, inverters, controls) Participate in technology selection, site evaluations, and constructability reviews. Support project development activities from early‑stage screening through execution readiness. Risk, Market Awareness & Benchmarking Perform cost validation, benchmarking, and estimate reconciliation. Lead risk assessment and contingency development, incorporating uncertainty and market variability. Monitor and incorporate labor availability and productivity trends, commodity pricing and escalation, equipment and supply chain constraints. Maintain and enhance historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement Work closely with engineering, project management, supply chain, finance, and regulatory teams. Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams. Develop Independent Cost Estimates (ICEs) and support contractor bid evaluations and negotiations. Support review of contractor change notices and validation of change orders for approval. Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners. Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution by validating commercial changes, reconciling contractor pricing, and informing forecast updates. Continuous Improvement Strengthen estimating tools, processes, and data governance. Promote consistency and best practices across the capital portfolio. Mentor and support development of junior estimators and staff as necessary. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience). 10+ years of experience in cost estimating. Minimum 5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects. Proven ability to develop estimates for large‑scale capital projects ($100M+). Strong understanding of engineering design development, construction practices and execution strategies, procurement and contracting approaches. Proficiency with estimating tools such as Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, InEight Estimate, Cleopatra, Sage, or similar. Advanced Excel modeling. Preferred Qualifications Experience within a regulated utility environment. Experience estimating CCGT or simple cycle generation, Battery energy storage systems (BESS), Renewable energy and grid infrastructure. Professional certifications such as AACE CCP, PMP, or equivalent. Experience supporting IRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings. Experience in EPC, EPCM, or owner's project delivery models. Key Competencies Commitment to safety and operational excellence. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Clear and effective communication with technical and non‑technical stakeholders. Ability to balance detail‑oriented analysis with strategic decision‑making. Collaboration and stakeholder alignment. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Why Join NiSource Contribute to critical infrastructure investments that power and connect communities. Support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future. Work on large, impactful capital projects across a diverse portfolio. Collaborate with experienced professionals in a safety‑first, values‑driven organization. Success in This Role In the first 12 months, you will: Establish consistent estimating practices across assigned projects. Improve estimate accuracy, transparency, and confidence levels. Support successful regulatory and investment approvals. Build and enhance cost benchmarking tools and data. Strengthen collaboration across development, engineering, and construction teams. Salary Range*: $82,200.00 - $123,200.00 *The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills, job‑related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity. Equal Employment Opportunity NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle. By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities. ADA Accommodations If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io. Safety Statement Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co‑workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits. E-Verify NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. As part of this process, we provide the following notices to all job applicants: E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish) If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away #J-18808-Ljbffr