Lead Estimator Solar Electrical (PV) Contracting

OE Solar; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonus opportunities

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and company holidays

Company vehicle for daytime use

Professional development and training

Four-day work week

Job summary

OE Solar is seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to drive project success by developing accurate, competitive bids and supporting growth while upholding safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

The Lead Estimator will manage the complete estimating process for solar, EV charging, and BESS projects, review bid opportunities, perform quantity takeoffs, develop labor and material estimates, and prepare proposals in collaboration with project management and operations teams.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of NEC, NFPA, and industry standards.
• Experience estimating commercial and industrial projects.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, plans, and specifications.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and general computer applications.
• Strong communication, organizational, and negotiation skills; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating efforts for government and commercial projects.
• Review plans, specs, and bid documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and labor calculations.
• Develop detailed cost estimates for EV charging infrastructure, Battery Energy Storage Systems (with and without solar), and Solar PV systems.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site walks.
• Identify project risks and value-engineering opportunities.
• Prepare proposals and bid packages.
• Present estimates to company leadership for review and approval.
• Maintain estimating databases and historical cost records.
• Collaborate with project managers during project handoff.
• Build and maintain relationships with general contractors, owners, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Track bid results and analyze win/loss trends to improve estimating performance.

Skills

NEC & NFPA knowledge

Commercial/Industrial estimating

Reading drawings & specs

Excel proficiency

Communication & negotiation

Valid driver's license

Education

Electrical Journeyman License or relevant certifications

Job description

Description

OE Solar is a well-established, locally owned company and a recognized leader in solar electric contracting throughout New Mexico for the last 17 years. Our reputation is built on delivering on plan and spec and As built projects to Federal and state customers throughout New Mexico. We know successful projects begin with strong preconstruction planning and accurate estimating.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to help drive project success by developing accurate, competitive bids and supporting strategic business growth while upholding our commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Position Summary

The Lead Estimator is responsible for managing the complete estimating process for solar, EV charging, and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. This role includes reviewing bid opportunities, performing quantity takeoffs, soliciting vendor pricing, developing labor and material estimates, preparing proposals, and collaborating with project management and operations teams to ensure successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will possess strong technical knowledge of electrical systems, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery storage solutions, EV charging infrastructure, concrete construction, solar racking systems, and communications systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating efforts for government and commercial projects.
• Review plans, specifications, and bid documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and labor calculations.
• Develop detailed cost estimates for:
  • EV charging infrastructure
  • Battery Energy Storage Systems (with and without solar)
  • Solar PV systems, including carports, ground-mounted, and rooftop installations
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Attend pre-bid meetings and site walks.
• Identify project risks and value-engineering opportunities.
• Prepare proposals and bid packages.
• Present estimates to company leadership for review and approval.
• Maintain estimating databases and historical cost records.
• Collaborate closely with project managers during project handoff.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with general contractors, owners, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Track bid results and analyze win/loss trends to improve estimating performance.

Required Qualifications

• Strong understanding of NEC, NFPA, and applicable industry standards.
• Experience estimating commercial and industrial projects.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, plans, and specifications.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and general computer applications.
• Strong communication, organizational, and negotiation skills.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• 7+ years of estimating experience.
• Previous leadership experience.
• Electrical Journeyman License and/or relevant industry certifications.
• Experience with public works projects, prevailing wage requirements, and government contracts.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Company vehicle available for daytime business use, when required
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Four-day work week

Compensation Pay Range: $70,000 - $100,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• 401(k) with 4% company match
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Employee referral program

Work Location

In-Person | Albuquerque, New Mexico Office