Senior Electrical Estimator

cs-erickson-careers; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

CS Erickson is seeking a Senior Estimator in Grand Rapids to deliver accurate bids for electrical construction projects. You will collaborate with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and clients to develop detailed estimates, pricing, and schedules for competitive proposals.

The role emphasizes risk assessment, value engineering, and clear bid presentations, with mentorship responsibilities and ongoing cost-data improvement to optimize profitability while maintaining safety and quality

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• 7-10 years experience as an Electrical Estimator in electrical construction markets.
• In-depth knowledge of electrical systems, materials, and installation methods.
• Proficiency with estimating software and tools (Accubid, McCormick, Bluebeam) and Microsoft Office.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills for detailed quantity take-offs and cost calculations.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, specs, and project documents accurately.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills to collaborate with stakeholders.
• Experience in managing and coordinating subcontractors and suppliers.
• Detail-oriented with high accuracy and deadline discipline.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

Responsibilities

• Estimation and Bid Preparation: analyze plans to determine scope, materials, labor, equipment, subcontractor needs, and develop detailed cost estimates.
• Cost Analysis: evaluate methods and materials for cost-effective, safe solutions; obtain pricing from vendors.
• Proposal Development: prepare bid proposals aligned with client requirements and CS Erickson capabilities.
• Risk Assessment: identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to maximize profitability.
• Bid Review and Presentation: present cost estimates and methodologies to stakeholders and clients, negotiate as needed.
• Subcontractor and Supplier Management: identify and qualify subcontractors, maintain pricing relationships.
• Value Engineering: suggest design/material alternatives to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Mentorship and Training: guide other estimators and foster continuous learning.
• Knowledge Management: maintain cost data databases and improve estimation processes.

Skills

7-10 years experience

Electrical systems knowledge

Analytical & mathematical skills

Blueprint interpretation

Negotiation & communication

Subcontractor coordination

Detail-oriented

Organization & multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

Accubid

McCormick

Bluebeam

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About CS Erickson

At CS Erickson, we are redefining what the industry expects from a trade company by building a world-class, professional organization. We instill confidence in our customers by making every interaction insightful, proactive, and simple. We offer solutions from electrical engineering to AV equipment and installation. More than just getting the job done, we take pride in going the extra mile on every project, ensuring expert craftsmanship and treating every facility as if it were our own.

If you’re excited about joining a team that’s on a mission to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the trades, we have opportunities for talented individuals. Our fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture rewards self-starters who want to contribute to an organization that’s leading the way in innovation, quality, and professionalism in the industry.

About the role

As a Senior Estimator at CS Erickson, you will be responsible for providing accurate and comprehensive estimates for electrical construction projects. You will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, subcontractors, and clients to gather all necessary information and ensure the development of highly competitive bids.

What you'll do

• Estimation and Bid Preparation: Analyze project plans, specifications, and other relevant documents to determine the scope of work, materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor requirements. Develop detailed cost estimates, including quantity take-offs, material pricing, labor rates, and project timelines.
• Cost Analysis: Conduct cost analysis and evaluate different methods and materials to determine the most cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or safety. Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to obtain accurate pricing information and negotiate favorable terms.
• Proposal Development: Prepare comprehensive and professional bid proposals in response to client requests for proposals (RFPs). Ensure that proposals align with project requirements, comply with industry standards, and reflect CS Erickson’s capabilities and competitive advantages.
• Risk Assessment: Identify and assess project risks, including potential cost overruns, schedule delays, and scope changes. Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to minimize project uncertainties and maximize profitability.
• Bid Review and Presentation: Collaborate with the project management team to review bids and proposals. Present and explain cost estimates, assumptions, and methodologies to internal stakeholders and clients. Address questions, concerns, and negotiate contracts as necessary.
• Subcontractor and Supplier Management: Identify, qualify, and select subcontractors and suppliers based on their expertise, capabilities, and cost competitiveness. Establish and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring timely and accurate pricing for bids.
• Value Engineering: Collaborate with project teams to identify opportunities for value engineering, cost reduction, and process improvement. Suggest alternative methods, materials, or design solutions to enhance project efficiency and profitability.
• Mentorship and Training: Provide mentorship and training to other estimators, fostering a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and excellence within the estimating team.
• Knowledge Management: Maintain an updated database of historical cost data, pricing information, and industry trends. Continuously improve estimation processes and methodologies by incorporating lessons learned from completed projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field is preferred.
• 7-10 years experience as an Electrical Estimator in the construction or electrical trade market, with a focus on complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of electrical systems, materials, and installation methods.
• Strong proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g., Accubid, McCormick, Bluebeam) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent analytical and mathematical skills, with the ability to perform detailed quantity take-offs and cost calculations.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications, and other project documents accurately.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience in managing and coordinating subcontractors and suppliers.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy and an ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

Winning Behaviors and Competencies

• Real-time Communication is key to success: We will communicate real-time to our team members and clients.
• Knowing our projects is key to success: Preplanning and continuous planning habits lead to success. We will preplan every project, every time, no exceptions.
• Responsiveness is key to our success: We will deliver on time on all commitments and approach every request with a sense of urgency. This is our differentiator.
• Accountability is key to our success: I have a clear understanding of what I am responsible for and will ensure I have enabled good routines and habits that ensure successful outcomes.
• We are professionals and will hold ourselves to the highest standards: The services and products we deliver will represent this belief. In return we will become role models for our youth, enhance our brand reputation and provide high value outcomes and exceptional experiences for our partners and clients.

CS Erickson is an equal opportunity employer

CS Erickson extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees regardless of an individual’s race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), disability, marital status, military service, height, weight, genetic information, or any other reason protected by law.

Assistance

CS Erickson is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. CS Erickson will not discriminate against any qualified individual who can perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Recruiter Notice

CS Erickson partners exclusively with recruiters who have a current, signed agreement in place. Recruiters without such an agreement must not present themselves as acting on behalf of CS Erickson. We kindly ask that you do not contact our employees or hiring managers or submit unsolicited resumes. Any resumes received without an approved recruiting agreement will be considered the property of CS Erickson, and no fees will be paid.