Electrical Estimator: Drive Accurate, Competitive Bids

DeBra-Kuempel Inc.; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

401(k)

Tuition reimbursement

Employee assistance program

Company discounts

and more.

Job summary

DeBra-Kuempel Inc. is seeking an Electrical Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for electrical construction projects.

You will analyze drawings and project requirements to determine labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs, supporting profitable bidding decisions. Responsibilities include reviewing drawings, performing quantity takeoffs, coordinating with PMs, and developing bid proposals within deadlines.

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, construction management, or a related field.
• Prior experience estimating for a union electrical contractor (IBEW signatory).
• Knowledge of NECA IBEW labor agreements, local wage sheets, and benefit structures.
• Familiarity with prevailing wage (Davis Bacon) and public sector construction requirements.
• Ability to collaborate with project managers, field leadership, and union representatives while maintaining contractual compliance.
• Prior experience as an electrician or field technician.
• Experience in electrical estimating or contracting with understanding of electrical systems and construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, specs, and building plans.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and takeoff tools.
• Knowledge of applicable electrical codes and industry standards.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Team oriented.
• Time management and ability to meet bid deadlines.
• Ability to work with project managers, engineers, and vendors.
• Commitment to safe, productive, and contract-compliant execution.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze electrical drawings, specifications, proposals to determine project scope and requirements.
• Prepare detailed labor, material, and equipment cost estimates for commercial and industrial electrical projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and assess manpower and scheduling while coordinating with Project Managers / Service Managers.
• Develop and submit accurate and competitive bid proposals within required timelines and lead times based on current market.
• Communicate with vendors, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams to obtain pricing and clarify.
• Evaluate project risks, cost uncertainties, and potential profitability.
• Maintain and update cost databases, labor rates, and material pricing to reflect market conditions.
• Support project managers during handoff and assist with change order pricing as needed.
• Conduct site visits to validate estimating assumptions.
• Accurately apply union negotiated wages / fringes per local CBAs.
• Coordinate site visits to verify existing conditions.
• Support coordination meetings and job turnover meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Mathematical proficiency

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Team orientation

Time management

Reading electrical drawings

Education

Associate or bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, construction management, or related field

Tools

Estimating software

Spreadsheets

Takeoff tools

Job description

DeBra-Kuempel Inc. is seeking an Electrical Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for electrical construction projects.

You will analyze drawings and project requirements to determine labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs, supporting profitable bidding decisions. Responsibilities include reviewing drawings, performing quantity takeoffs, coordinating with PMs, and developing bid proposals within deadlines.