Substation Estimator

Job Description

At Elecnor Hawkeye, we prioritize our employees by fostering a collaborative, dynamic environment where they can reach their full potential. As a leading company in engineering, construction, and infrastructure, we provide solutions for electrical transmission, substations, gas pipelines, and solar facilities. Our goal is to build essential energy infrastructure while supporting the transition to cleaner energy sources. We're known for delivering affordable, safe services, and we're committed to customer satisfaction, environmental protection, and on-time, on-budget project completion. We consistently seek ways to enhance our operations, support ongoing growth, and expand our services across the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions and beyond.

The Substation Estimator plays a crucial role in developing detailed cost estimates for electrical transmission, distribution, and high-voltage substation projects up to 345 kV. This position oversees the entire bidding process, from the initial technical analysis to the final proposal submission and project handoff. The Substation Estimator ensures that all estimates align with business goals, meet client needs, and adhere to technical specifications for AIS/GIS systems, HVDC Converter Stations, and SCADA systems. This role requires strong engineering skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to conduct thorough risk assessments, identify revenue opportunities, and improve productivity.

Responsibilities

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• Thoroughly review Request for Proposal (RFP) packages, project documents, owner specifications, blueprints, and engineering drawings for Air-Insulated Substations (AIS), Gas-Insulated Substations (GIS), High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Converter Stations, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to understand the project scope fully.
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• Analyze multiple project options to identify the most cost-effective solutions while ensuring technical feasibility.
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• Schedule and lead detailed site visits to assess construction requirements, evaluate terrain variability, and determine necessary preparatory work, including grading, fencing, and grounding measures.
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• Document site-specific conditions that may affect project estimates or execution plans.
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• Prepare comprehensive cost estimates for new substation projects and retrofits, including detailed breakdowns of labor, equipment, and materials.
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• Evaluate potential risks and uncertainties for specific project tasks and develop appropriate project contingencies.
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• Document and communicate all underlying assumptions supporting the cost estimates.
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• Coordinate and manage the creation of complex bid proposal packages that involve multiple subcontractors.
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• Include precise elements such as unit pricing, detailed execution plans, project schedules, resource allocation, and cash flow projections in the bid packages.
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• Ensure that all bid documentation meets both internal and client-specific standards.
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• Develop tailored bid packages for subcontractors and vendors by soliciting, evaluating, and managing competitive quotes.
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• Ensure that third-party deliverables align with overall project strategy, timeline, and budget constraints.
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• Present comprehensive proposals in formal bid review sessions and actively participate in negotiations to refine cost proposals.
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• Hold discussions to clarify questions and negotiate iteratively until you finalize bids and award projects.
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• Transfer the finalized estimates and execution plans to the project management teams, clearly conveying all cost and technical details.
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• Maintain ongoing communication with both project managers and stakeholders to discuss any proposed changes or adjustments to estimates as the project evolves.
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• Perform other duties as assigned.
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Qualifications

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• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, mathematics, science, or a related field.
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• At least 10 years of experience in project management and estimating within the utility construction sector, specifically in substation projects.
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• Proficiency in estimating software such as HCSS HeavyBid, B2W, or Accubid.
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• Experienced with scheduling tools such as Oracle Primavera 6, along with strong skills in Microsoft Office.
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• Solid understanding of project requirements, with the ability to conduct detailed data analyses and risk assessments to prepare competitive project bids.
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• Knowledge of Work and Cost Breakdown Structures is a plus.
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• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effectively sharing complex data with various stakeholders.
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• Must possess a valid U.S. driver's license and maintain a good driving record.
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Work Environment & Hazards

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• Primarily in an office setting, requiring sitting, standing, and extended computer use.
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• Frequent visits to active substation sites, switchyards, and areas where high-voltage utility construction is taking place.
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• Potential electrical hazards from energized equipment and high-voltage lines (up to 345 kV), including risks of arc flashes and electrical shocks.
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Special Physical Demands

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• Must be able to walk, climb, and bend during site visits in rugged terrain.
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• Occasional use of ladders, active stairways, and navigating common items in an active construction site.
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• Must also be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
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Work Contact Group

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• Frequent collaboration with internal departments, including project management, engineering, field operations, procurement, supply chain, senior leadership, and finance.
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• Regular communication with utility companies, subcontractors, vendors, third-party engineers and consultants, and representatives from regulatory and permitting agencies.
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Elecnor Hawkeye provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to ensure both your physical health and financial security, as well as that of your dependents. Some of the benefits we offer include robust health insurance options, retirement plans, and wellness programs designed to enhance your overall well-being. At Elecnor Hawkeye, we are dedicated to helping our employees prioritize their health and financial future while achieving these important goals.

Elecnor Hawkeye USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.