Senior Estimator - Solar Construction

CS Energy LLC; Edison (NJ); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the energy sector is seeking a Preconstruction Manager/Sr. Estimator to lead bidding processes and manage project estimates. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction estimating and project management, ensuring profitable and feasible project bids. Responsibilities include coordinating bid documents, managing multiple projects, and collaborating with various teams to develop pricing strategies. This role requires excellent communication and organizational skills, along with relevant educational qualifications or extensive experience in the field.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years relevant experience or Bachelor's degree in related field.
• At least 2 years of construction estimating experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage the entire bid cycle and oversee the preconstruction phase.
• Investigate specifications and perform accurate takeoffs.
• Negotiate costs and prepare competitive bid proposals.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Primavera

Microsoft Project

HCSS

Bluebeam

Job description

The Preconstruction Manager/Sr. Estimator bids and wins highly profitable and feasible projects by developing pricing strategies that maximize profits, cash flow, and minimize risks during construction.

The ideal candidate will coordinate bid documents, labor productions, subcontractor and vendor pricing, buyouts, relationships, project start-up meetings, owner estimates, requisitions, and cost-to-completes. This role manages the entire bid cycle and oversees the preconstruction phase as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Investigate specifications, scope of work, drawings, and RFP documents to understand requirements.
2. Perform accurate and timely takeoffs and data analysis.
3. Understand contract documents and project risks; recommend mitigation and pricing strategies.
4. Conduct field visits to assess site conditions, verify production rates, and learn construction techniques; adjust bid methods accordingly.
5. Attend cost-to-complete meetings and incorporate lessons learned into future bids.
6. Negotiate costs, quality, and delivery using company procedures.
7. Collaborate with Business Development and Contracts teams to address risks and issues.
8. Assist in developing pricing strategies.
9. Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
10. Communicate effectively with subcontractors and vendors.
11. Ensure all subcontractors and vendors sign NDAs and receive standard Terms and Conditions before sharing bid information.
12. Coordinate with teams to produce competitive bid proposals.
13. Draft proposals with detailed pricing and clarifications per RFP specs.
14. Complete bids on time for review.
15. Prepare and ensure execution of subcontracts and purchase orders, with proper documentation.
16. Oversee project startup deliverables and schedule adherence.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field, or minimum 7 years relevant experience; energy industry experience preferred.
• At least 2 years of construction estimating experience.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven track record of achievement and career growth.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and understanding of civil, structural, electrical plans, and project specs.
• Knowledge of NEC standards; NABCEP certification preferred.
• Experience with Primavera, Microsoft Project, HCSS, Bluebeam, or similar software is advantageous.
• Knowledge of estimating, engineering, cost tracking, EPC contracts, and construction is preferred.

*All conditional employment offers require pre-employment drug testing and background checks. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. and CS Energy does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or third parties.