Data Center Estimator

Instrata; Chandler (AZ); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Instrata is seeking a Data Center Estimator for a hybrid role based in Phoenix, AZ. You will prepare fast, accurate estimates for data center projects, working from our local office and visiting active job sites with operations and clients to understand scope and drive bids to completion.

You will leverage standardized templates, takeoffs, and pricing data to deliver high-volume estimates and support change orders, with regular collaboration across the project team.

Qualifications

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Responsibilities

• Prepare estimates and proposals for small to mid-sized data center projects using standardized templates to deliver fast, accurate turnaround.
• Conduct site walks with foremen, superintendents, and project teams to verify scope, conditions, and requirements before pricing.
• Price and prepare change orders in partnership with field and project leadership.
• Meet face-to-face with clients to review scope, clarify requirements, and present proposals.
• Track bid results and estimated-versus-actual costs to improve future estimates.

Skills

Data center knowledge

Advanced Excel

Reading drawings & specs

Client-facing communication

Bid management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in construction management, business, engineering, or related field

BICSI certification (e.g., RCDD)

Tools

Bluebeam

Estimating software

MS Project

Smartsheet

Job description

Data Center Estimator (Hybrid, Phoenix, AZ)

The Data Center Estimator prepares fast, accurate, and competitive estimates for data center and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) projects, including structured copper and fiber cabling, data center infrastructure, and related low-voltage systems. This role focuses on the high volume of small and mid-sized data center opportunities, using standardized templates to turn bids around quickly, separate from our commercial estimating process. This is a hybrid, Phoenix-based role. The Estimator works from our local office and regularly visits active job sites and client facilities, partnering with operations, field leadership, and clients to understand scope firsthand and get estimates out the door.

Job Summary

Data Center Estimator (Hybrid, Phoenix, AZ)

The Data Center Estimator prepares fast, accurate, and competitive estimates for data center and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) projects, including structured copper and fiber cabling, data center infrastructure, and related low-voltage systems. This role focuses on the high volume of small and mid-sized data center opportunities, using standardized templates to turn bids around quickly, separate from our commercial estimating process. This is a hybrid, Phoenix-based role. The Estimator works from our local office and regularly visits active job sites and client facilities, partnering with operations, field leadership, and clients to understand scope firsthand and get estimates out the door.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare estimates and proposals for small to mid-sized data center projects, using standardized templates to deliver fast, accurate turnaround.
• Conduct site walks with foremen, superintendents, and project teams to verify scope, conditions, and requirements before pricing.
• Price and prepare change orders in partnership with field and project leadership.
• Meet face-to-face with clients to review scope, clarify requirements, and present proposals.
• Work closely with the Integration Manager, Branch Manager, and operations leadership on bid priorities, scope clarification, and project turnover after award.
• Manage multiple bids at once and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Review drawings, specifications, and contract documents for scope, risk, and exclusions, and elevate concerns as appropriate.
• Manage the RFI process and follow up consistently with clients on pending proposals.
• Maintain and improve data center estimating templates, labor units, and pricing data.
• Build relationships with suppliers, distributors, and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing.
• Attend project kick-off meetings to communicate the estimate, scope, and assumptions to operations.
• Track bid results and estimated-versus-actual job costs to improve future estimate accuracy.
• Recommend tools, technology, and process improvements that speed up data center estimating.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of data center and ICT infrastructure, including structured copper and fiber cabling, pathways, racks and cabinets, and grounding and bonding.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with Bluebeam or similar take-off software and estimating software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; proficiency in Word, Teams, and MS Project.
• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Smartsheet) is a plus.
• Understanding of labor productivity, material pricing, markup, and margin.
• Comfortable in client-facing settings, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Eager to learn, adaptable, and motivated to grow with a fast-moving team.
• Knowledge of gas, water, electric, civil, and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) work is helpful when applicable.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, business, engineering, or a related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of estimating experience, with exposure to data center and/or ICT projects. Experienced estimators are encouraged to apply.
• Must live in or be willing to relocate to the Phoenix metro area.
• BICSI certification (e.g., RCDD) preferred.
• Experience with security, audio/visual, or fire alarm systems is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Work is split between a standard office environment and active construction and data center sites. Requires sitting, standing, walking, and the ability to navigate job sites safely while wearing required PPE. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.

Work Environment

This is a hybrid role based in Phoenix, AZ, combining in-office work, regular site visits, and in-person client meetings. Occasional travel may be required. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The duties and responsibilities described above are not a comprehensive list, and additional tasks may be assigned as the scope of the position may change as necessitated by business demands.