Substation & T&D Estimator

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate cost estimates for electrical substation construction, expansion, and maintenance projects as well as Transmission & Distribution (T&D) line work. This role involves analyzing drawings, specifications, and proposals, preparing detailed quantity take-offs, evaluating labor, material, and equipment requirements, and coordinating with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure bids are competitive and complete.

Key Responsibilities. Substation Responsibilities Review engineering drawings, technical specifications, and bid documents for new substation builds, expansions, and retrofits. Perform detailed quantity take-offs for substation civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical components. Develop cost models for site preparation, foundations, grounding, steel structures, transformers, switchgear, bus work, and control buildings.

Obtain and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing specific to substation equipment and scope. Collaborate with engineering and project management teams to align scope, schedule, and cost for substation packages. Transmission & Distribution Responsibilities Prepare detailed cost estimates for overhead transmission and distribution line projects (wood pole, steel pole, and lattice tower).

Estimate costs for conductor stringing, sagging, splicing, dead-ends, and associated hardware. Evaluate underground distribution and transmission scopes, including duct banks, feeders, manholes, and vaults. Incorporate productivity factors, right-of-way considerations, environmental conditions, and equipment requirements for T&D work.

Review and analyze subcontractor and vendor quotes for transmission structures, conductor, cable, insulators, and line hardware. Ensure compliance with utility standards, NESC, NEC, IEEE, and regional T&D construction practices. General Estimating Responsibilities Develop complete and accurate project cost estimates including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor work.

Incorporate productivity rates, union/non-union labor considerations, and regional cost adjustments into all estimates. Support risk assessment and value-engineering efforts to optimize project costs and schedules. Maintain a cost history database and provide benchmarking for future bids. Participate in client proposal development, clarifications, and presentations.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or equivalent experience. 3–5 years of estimating experience in substations, with proven exposure to Transmission & Distribution projects (overhead and underground). Strong knowledge of substation systems (transformers, circuit breakers, grounding, protection & control) and T&D infrastructure (structures, conductor, cable, feeders).

Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Heavy. Bid, In. Eight, Trimble, or similar), Microsoft Excel, and scheduling tools. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contracts. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact with clients and stakeholders.

Additional Requirements Willingness to travel to job sites for site walks, pre-bid meetings, and subcontractor coordination. Knowledge of substation civil works (grading, pads, duct banks) and structural steel erection is a plus. Familiarity with utility standards, OSHA safety requirements, and regional T&D construction practices.