Project Cost Estimator

BoxPower Inc; Grass Valley (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A renewable energy company in Grass Valley seeks a Solar and Battery Project Cost Estimator to develop accurate cost estimates for solar PV and Battery Energy Storage installations. The candidate will prepare detailed estimates for project components, collaborate with various teams, and utilize estimating tools to ensure competitive pricing. Ideal candidates have 3–5 years of relevant experience and proficiency in cost estimating software.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in cost estimating for solar and BESS construction projects.
• Proven experience estimating solar PV installations and battery energy storage systems.
• Strong proficiency with industry-standard estimating tools and internal estimating tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed bottom-up cost estimates for solar + BESS projects.
• Prepare estimates for site preparation, civil work, and commissioning.
• Collaborate closely with engineering and project management teams.

Skills

Cost estimating for solar and BESS construction projects

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related field

Tools

RSMeans

Estimating software

Job description

Overview

The Solar and Battery Project Cost Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive bottom-up cost estimates for solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) installations, ranging from 50kW to 5MW. The role encompasses estimating costs associated with site preparation, civil work, foundations, equipment pad installations, electrical contracting, integration, and commissioning of solar and battery storage systems. Expertise in ground mount, rooftop, and carport solar installations, as well as Commercial & Industrial (C&I) and utility-scale BESS applications, is essential. This role reports directly to the Sales Engineering Manager and is part of the Project Development team within the Sales organization.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed bottom-up cost estimates for solar + BESS projects (50kW–5MW), ensuring accuracy and comprehensiveness from initial ROM (Rough Order of Magnitude) to turnkey solutions.
• Prepare estimates for site preparation, civil and structural work, foundation construction, equipment installation (including pad-mounted systems), electrical contracting, system integration, and commissioning.
• Leverage industry-standard estimating tools, such as RSMeans and other relevant estimating databases, to ensure competitive and market-aligned pricing.
• Create, refine, and maintain internal cost-estimating tools and templates that streamline and standardize the pricing and estimating processes.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, sales, and project management teams to validate estimates and continuously refine cost assumptions and methodologies.
• Conduct detailed analysis of bids received from subcontractors and suppliers, including reviewing for completeness, accuracy, and conformity to specifications.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, market pricing fluctuations, labor rates, and regional variations in construction costs.
• Clearly document and communicate cost estimate assumptions, risk factors, and exclusions to project stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, finance, or a related field preferred; relevant experience may substitute formal education.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in cost estimating for solar and BESS construction projects.
• Proven experience estimating solar PV installations (ground mount, rooftop, carport) and battery energy storage systems at C&I and utility scale.
• Strong proficiency with industry-standard estimating tools (e.g., RSMeans) and a proven track record of developing and maintaining internal estimating tools.
• Familiarity with electrical contracting, civil engineering, structural design considerations, and site preparation requirements.
• Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a meticulous approach to cost analysis and budgeting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to clearly articulate estimate assumptions and methodologies to internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, estimating software, and other relevant applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in construction estimating (e.g., Certified Professional Estimator).
• Experience working within EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) firms, particularly in renewable energy or energy storage projects.