Field Estimator

UPS Industrial Services, LLC.; Deer Park (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

UPS Instrument & Electrical Services in the United States seeks a Field Estimator to develop detailed cost estimates for large-scale capital projects in power generation and distribution. You will work closely with project management, engineering, construction, procurement, and operations to evaluate scope and support execution.

The role involves field walks, site assessments, and preparing labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor estimates. Travel up to 50% may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of estimating experience in industrial construction or capital projects.
• Experience estimating large-scale projects exceeding $1 million.

Responsibilities

• Review specs, drawings, bid packages to develop detailed cost estimates.
• Perform field walks and site assessments to evaluate conditions and labor needs.
• Develop labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, and indirect cost estimates.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs and validate project assumptions.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify cost drivers and risks impacting estimate accuracy.
• Maintain historical cost data and benchmarking information.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and project controls activities.
• Assist in preparing proposals, submissions, and client presentations.
• Analyze change orders and develop scope modification estimates.

Skills

Estimating experience

Field evaluations

Power generation knowledge

Excel

Vendor management

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Associate's degree or higher

Tools

Primavera P6

HeavyBid

InEight

Accubid

MS Project

Job description

UPS Instrument & Electrical Services is looking for a Field Estimator to join our safety conscious team! The Field Estimator is responsible for developing accurate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates for large-scale capital projects within the power generation and power distribution industries. This role works closely with project management, engineering, construction, procurement, and operations teams to evaluate project scope, conduct site assessments, develop competitive estimates, and support project execution from planning through completion.

This is a long-term career opportunity supporting significant capital investments and infrastructure projects, with opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Review project specifications, drawings, bid packages, and scope documents to develop detailed cost estimates.
• Perform field walks and site assessments to evaluate existing conditions, access requirements, constructability challenges, and labor needs.
• Develop labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, and indirect cost estimates for capital construction projects.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs and validate project assumptions.
• Collaborate with engineering, construction, procurement, and project management teams to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and cost drivers impacting estimate accuracy.
• Maintain historical cost databases and benchmarking information.
• Participate in project planning meetings and constructability reviews.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and project controls activities.
• Assist in preparing proposals, bid submissions, and client presentations.
• Analyze change orders and develop cost estimates for scope modifications.
• Ensure estimates comply with company standards, industry practices, and client requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating processes and tools.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Project Management, or a related discipline preferred.
• Minimum 5+ years of estimating experience within industrial construction, power generation, power distribution, electrical infrastructure, or capital projects.
• Demonstrated experience estimating large-scale capital projects exceeding $1 million in value.
• Strong understanding of power generation facilities, substations, transmission systems, distribution systems, and related infrastructure.
• Experience conducting field evaluations and developing estimates based on site conditions.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, P&IDs, electrical one-lines, construction schedules, and technical documents.
• Proficiency with estimating software and project management tools.
• Strong knowledge of labor productivity, equipment rates, material pricing, and subcontractor management.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to project sites as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience supporting EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) projects.
• Experience with utility, renewable energy, fossil fuel, combined cycle, transmission, or distribution projects.
• Knowledge of Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Accubid, HeavyBid, InEight, HCSS, or similar estimating platforms.
• PMP, CEP (Certified Estimating Professional), or equivalent industry certification.
• Experience with self-perform and subcontracted construction models.
• Understanding of project controls, scheduling, and earned value management.
• OSHA 30 certification.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of construction means and methods.
• Knowledge of power industry safety standards and regulations.
• Ability to prioritize multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced project environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and cost analysis techniques.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform field visits at active construction sites.
• Ability to walk long distances, climb stairs and ladders, and navigate industrial environments.
• Ability to wear required PPE and comply with site-specific safety requirements.
• Ability to travel up to 50% as business needs require.

UPS Industrial Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability.