Electrical Estimator

Photo Electric LLC; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Photo Electric LLC is seeking a highly organized Electrical Estimator to support our growing project load across residential, commercial, and light industrial service work. This role replaces and expands responsibilities currently handled by senior staff, including bid sourcing, plan review, takeoffs, pricing, and client communication.

As part of the team, you will develop accurate, timely estimates by reviewing drawings, coordinating with vendors, and preparing bid packages.

Qualifications

• 2+ years electrical estimating experience or 3+ years field electrical experience with strong plan-reading skills.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and code requirements.
• Familiarity with estimating software (PlanSwift, Bluebeam, or similar).
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Bid Sourcing & Intake: Monitor bid boards, client requests, and incoming opportunities; evaluate project fit based on scope, timeline, and resource availability.
• Plan Review & Takeoffs: Read and interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and RFP documents; perform material and labor takeoffs.
• Estimate Development: Build estimates using standardized labor rates and material markup; apply classifications for journeyman vs. apprentice labor; prepare scope narratives and assumptions.
• Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination: Request and compare supplier quotes; maintain pricing libraries.
• Client & Internal Communication: Clarify scope with owners, GCs, and PMs; support change order pricing and budget updates; attend pre-bid meetings.
• Documentation & Handoff: Prepare bid packages and provide clean handoffs to operations with breakdowns and notes.

Skills

Electrical estimation

Plan-reading ability

Estimating software

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Tools

PlanSwift

Bluebeam

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Photo Electric LLC is seeking a highly organized, detail‑driven Electrical Estimator to support our growing project load across residential, commercial, and light industrial service work. This role replaces and expands the responsibilities currently handled by Gabe and Cole — including bid sourcing, plan review, takeoffs, pricing, and client communication.

Position Overview

The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, timely, and competitive electrical estimates. This includes reviewing plans, performing material and labor takeoffs, coordinating with vendors, preparing bid packages, and supporting project managers with scope clarifications and change orders.

This role directly impacts Photo Electric’s ability to secure profitable work and maintain strong client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Bid Sourcing & Intake

  
  
  
  

  • Monitor bid boards, client requests, and incoming opportunities.

  
  

  • Evaluate project fit based on scope, timeline, and resource availability.

  
  
  
  



• Plan Review & Takeoffs

  
  
  
  

  • Read and interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and RFP documents.

  
  

  • Perform detailed material and labor takeoffs for branch circuits, service upgrades, lighting, fire alarm, and specialty systems.

  
  

  • Identify missing information, conflicts, and required clarifications.

  
  
  
  



• Estimate Development

  
  
  
  

  • Build estimates using Photo Electric’s standardized labor rates and material markup (1.7x).

  
  

  • Apply correct classifications for journeyman vs. apprentice labor.

  
  

  • Prepare clear scope narratives, alternates, exclusions, and assumptions.

  
  
  
  



• Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination

  
  
  
  

  • Request and compare supplier quotes for gear, lighting, specialty equipment, and fire alarm components.

  
  

  • Maintain updated pricing libraries.

  
  
  
  



• Client & Internal Communication

  
  
  
  

  • Work with owners, GCs, and project managers to clarify scope and answer pre‑bid questions.

  
  

  • Support project managers with change order pricing and budget updates.

  
  

  • Attend pre‑bid meetings and walkthroughs as needed.

  
  
  
  



• Documentation & Handoff

  
  
  
  

  • Prepare complete bid packages including estimate sheets, scope letters, and supporting documents.

  
  

  • Provide clean handoff to operations with labor breakdowns, material lists, and critical project notes.

  
  
  
  

Required Skills & Experience

• 2+ years electrical estimating experience OR 3+ years field electrical experience with strong plan-reading skills.




• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and code requirements.




• Strong understanding of branch circuits, service equipment, lighting layouts, and fire alarm systems.




• Proficiency with estimating software (PlanSwift, Bluebeam, or similar).




• Excellent communication and documentation skills.




• High attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating for small to mid-size electrical contractors.




• Familiarity with Oregon permitting requirements.




• Ability to create labor breakdowns by floor, area, or system (matching Photo Electric’s current workflow).




• Experience preparing change orders and budget revisions.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.




• Paid time off and holidays.




• Opportunities for advancement within operations and project management.

About Photo Electric LLC

Photo Electric is a Salem-based electrical contractor specializing in residential, commercial, and light industrial service work. We prioritize accuracy, communication, and long-term client relationships. Our team values professionalism, accountability, and craftsmanship.