Chief Electrical Estimator

Chief Electrical Estimator – Strategic Leadership Opportunity

Location: Chicago South Suburbs, IL | Reports to: President

We are seeking an exceptionally qualified Chief Electrical Estimator to step into a key leadership role within our organization. This individual will bring deep expertise in electrical estimating combined with proven strategic leadership capabilities to lead a team of highly experienced Senior Electrical Estimators.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

The successful candidate will bring not only deep technical proficiency but also the strategic business acumen to drive growth, foster long-term client relationships, and secure complex, high-value projects. This role calls for outstanding negotiation skills, a strong record of business development success, and the ability to enhance client satisfaction while delivering optimal business outcomes.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Chief Electrical Estimator will bring hands-on experience estimating a wide range of complex commercial and industrial electrical projects. Reporting directly to the President, this leader will have demonstrated experience managing and developing senior-level estimating teams, exceptional negotiation skills with a track record of securing favorable outcomes, and strong business development expertise in cultivating new and existing client relationships. This is a critical executive leadership position with the opportunity to make a significant impact on the direction and success of the business.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Base salary: $180K–$200K, commensurate with experience

• Executive sign-on bonus

• Annual Short-Term Incentive (STI) based on year-end net profit vs. budget

• Potential individual performance bonus

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

• 401(k) with employer match

• Company vehicle allowance or stipend

• Paid time off and executive professional development budget

• Long-Term Incentive (LTI) program potential

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• Provide leadership, direction, and training for estimating team members

• Manage all aspects of the estimating process while meeting deadlines and short- and long-term company objectives

• Prepare and present completed estimating packages to company executives and senior management

• Assign and coordinate estimating requirements across staff based on project schedule and need

Operational Excellence & Financial Management

• Lead the team in delivering accurate, complete, and competitive pricing

• Maintain customer relationships to define project scope, address deficiencies, negotiate pricing, and build long-term partnerships

• Oversee the entire estimating process on all bid projects and accurately forecast future awards and probabilities

• Lead the bid review process with management to ensure estimates are completed on time and to a high standard of quality

• Manage the accuracy and quality of the ConEst estimating database

• Provide conceptual budgeting guidance to clients and project managers based on historical data, lessons learned, and current labor unit rates, and clearly communicate the reasoning behind it

Team Performance & Development

• Own team performance: develop, coach, and retain a high-performing leadership team

• Manage the flow of information within the department so it is timely and supports accurate estimates

• Foster a collaborative culture across field and office teams built on accountability, growth, and operational discipline

• Support a healthy internal culture that retains key employees and encourages professional development

• Partner with HR on workforce planning, training, and talent development

QUALIFICATIONS

• 15+ years of progressive electrical contracting or construction experience

• 10+ years of electrical estimating experience

• Computerized estimating experience required; ConEst preferred

• Advanced Microsoft Office skills; expert-level Excel

• BS in Electrical Engineering or Construction Management preferred

• Exceptional financial acumen, contract negotiation skills, and operational discipline

• Experience leading in a growth-focused, fast-paced environment

• Strong relationship-building skills with clients, partners, and internal teams

OUR LEADERSHIP VALUES

• Champion safety as a core value in every decision

• Lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability

• Foster innovation and embrace industry-leading practices

• Develop people as the foundation of long-term success

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace that values diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.