Estimating Intern

Hatzel & Buehler Inc; Washington, New York, Virginia (District of Columbia, NY, MN, WV); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. College Internship Program offers hands-on experience in the electrical construction industry, introducing students to estimating processes and bidding.

The Estimating Intern works under seasoned estimators to learn quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and bid preparation on commercial projects. The role involves supporting cost estimates, reviewing drawings, using Accubid and Bluebeam, collaborating with project teams, and helping prepare quotations while identifying cost

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Basic understanding of construction principles and electrical systems.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing detailed estimates of material and labor costs.
• Support development and submission of electrical estimates and tender docs.
• Review and organize quotes from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Analyze pricing to support competitive bids.
• Review project drawings, specs, and technical requirements.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from project plans under supervision.
• Learn estimating software such as Accubid and Bluebeam.
• Collaborate with estimators, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams.
• Support preparation of customer quotations aligned with company objectives.
• Identify potential project risks and cost variables.
• Maintain organized bid documentation and records.
• Participate in post‑bid reviews and price comparisons.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Pursuing degree in Construction Management or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Accubid

Bluebeam

Job description

Program Background

Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. College Internship Program is designed to introduce students to the wide range of career opportunities within the electrical construction industry. Since its inception, the program has consistently supported students in developing professional skills, building workplace relationships, and gaining meaningful, hands‑on experience.

Program participants have gone on to achieve significant post‑internship success, including acceptance into local IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) apprenticeship programs and securing full‑time employment within the industry.

Program Overview

The Estimating Intern supports the estimating team in preparing accurate cost estimates and bid submissions for commercial construction projects. This role provides hands‑on exposure to construction estimating processes, including quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and bid preparation, while working under the guidance of experienced estimators.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing detailed estimates of material and labor costs for electrical systems in commercial construction projects.
• Support the development and submission of electrical estimates and tender documentation.
• Help review and organize quotes from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Participate in basic analysis of pricing to support achieving competitive project bids.
• Assist in reviewing project drawings, specifications, and technical requirements.
• Perform quantity takeoffs using project plans under supervision.
• Learn and utilize estimating software such as Accubid and Bluebeam.
• Collaborate with estimators, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams throughout the bidding process.
• Support the preparation of customer quotations while aligning with company objectives.
• Assist in identifying potential project risks and cost variables.
• Help maintain organized bid documentation and records.
• Participate in post‑bid reviews and comparisons of supplier and subcontractor pricing.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of construction principles and electrical systems (coursework or prior experience preferred).
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Start Date: Summer 2027

Salary: $15.00 to $25.00/hour

Location: DC, DE, KY, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV

Equal Employment Opportunity

HATZEL & BUEHLER provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, HATZEL & BUEHLER complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. HATZEL & BUEHLER expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of HATZEL & BUEHLER’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Applicants as well as employees who are or become disabled must be able to perform the essential job functions either unaided or with reasonable accommodation. The organization shall determine reasonable accommodation on a case‑by‑case basis in accordance with applicable law.