Estimator

Instrata; United States; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Instrata seeks an Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for ICT and data center construction projects, covering structured cabling, data center infrastructure, and low voltage systems.

You will review bids, perform quantity take-offs, negotiate supplier and subcontractor pricing, and develop complete proposals defining labor, materials, and equipment to deliver profitable projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in business, construction management or related field.
• Minimum 3 years estimating or field experience in ICT/data center industries.
• BICSI certification is a plus; experience with estimating and project management helps.

Responsibilities

• Review project specs, drawings and bid docs; submit RFIs as needed.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and job walks to understand requirements.
• Perform complete quantity take-offs from RFPs and bid docs.
• Research and obtain pricing from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Develop estimates based on scope, BOM, and labor units.
• Identify risks and document assumptions clearly.
• Analyze cost data, pricing trends, and production rates using estimating software.
• Prepare and submit professional proposals by bid deadline.
• Coordinate bid review with Estimating Manager before submission.
• Follow up with clients on proposals and maintain bid status.

Skills

Excel (Advanced)

MS Project

MS Teams

Communication

Math aptitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in business/related field

3+ years ICT/data center estimating

BICSI certification (plus)

Tools

Bluebeam

Smartsheet

Other take-off software

Job description

Job Summary

The Estimator prepares accurate, competitive cost estimates for new and existing Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and data center construction projects, including structured copper and fiber cabling, data center infrastructure, and related low voltage systems. The Estimator reviews bid documents, performs quantity take-offs, researches and negotiates pricing from suppliers and subcontractors, and develops complete proposals that clearly define the labor, materials, and equipment required to deliver the client's project profitably.

Job Summary

The Estimator prepares accurate, competitive cost estimates for new and existing Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and data center construction projects, including structured copper and fiber cabling, data center infrastructure, and related low voltage systems. The Estimator reviews bid documents, performs quantity take-offs, researches and negotiates pricing from suppliers and subcontractors, and develops complete proposals that clearly define the labor, materials, and equipment required to deliver the client's project profitably.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Review project specifications, drawings, and bid documents thoroughly and submit Requests for Information (RFIs) as needed to clarify scope.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and job walks (in person or virtually) to understand client requirements and site conditions.
• Perform complete electronic quantity take-offs based on the provided RFP and bid documentation.
• Research and obtain material and equipment pricing through approved distribution channels.
• Solicit, compare, and level quotes from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Develop estimates based on a well-defined scope of work, bill of materials, and labor units.
• Identify and assess project risks, and clearly document assumptions, clarifications, and exclusions.
• Analyze historical cost data, pricing trends, and production rates using estimating software.
• Prepare professional, accurate proposals and submit them to clients by the bid deadline.
• Review bids above the established dollar threshold with the Estimating Manager and other applicable personnel prior to submission.
• Perform weekly follow-ups with clients on pending proposals and keep bid status current in the tracking system.
• Attend project kick-off meetings (virtually) with the operations team after award and turn over the estimate, scope, and assumptions.

Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically Excel (advanced), Word, MS Project, and Teams.
• Formal training with estimating software preferred.
• Experience with Bluebeam or similar take-off software is a plus; we are willing to train the right candidate.
• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Smartsheet) is a plus.
• Working knowledge of ICT and data center infrastructure, such as structured cabling, fiber optics, pathways, racks and cabinets, and grounding and bonding.
• Experience with security, audio/visual, or fire alarm systems is a plus. Knowledge of gas, water, electric, civil, and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) work is helpful when applicable.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Familiarity with subcontractor requirements and scopes of work.
• Strong math aptitude and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business, construction management, or a related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years' estimating or field experience in the ICT and/or data center industry.
• Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) certification, or active preparation toward one, is a plus.
• Previous experience in estimating, project management, or a similar role.
• Experience performing administrative tasks such as preparing estimates and invoices and scheduling meetings.

Physical Requirements

Typical standard office environment conditions; sitting, standing, walking, and minimal lifting. The employee may occasionally have to 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

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.