Sr. Cost Estimator Lead

Trc Companies, Inc.; San Juan (PR); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Sr. Cost Estimator Lead for capital projects in the power utility sector. This critical role involves managing cost estimation processes from feasibility to execution, facilitating strategic decision-making for various electric power projects. Candidates should possess extensive experience in cost estimation and demonstrate leadership capabilities in a collaborative environment. TRC offers comprehensive benefits and competitive compensation.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance

401k package with company match

Paid time off (15 to 25 days per year)

Minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience in cost estimation; 5 years in management.
• Proficiency in generation, distribution, or transmission projects.
• Certification such as CCP or PMP preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of cost estimators developing project estimates.
• Review engineering designs and develop cost models.
• Perform risk analysis and compliance checks.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s degree

Tools

Aspen Capital Cost Estimator

CostX

Primavera P6

Job description

About Us

Groundbreaker. Game changer. Pioneer.

TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.

TRC's professionals work with a broad range of commercial, industrial and government clients and the communities they serve. We deliver breakthrough solutions that address local needs -- so our clients can better succeed in an ever-changing world.

Working at TRC means tackling interesting, meaningful projects. We pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial zeal and agile corporate structure. We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.

Overview

The Sr. Cost Estimator Lead is responsible for leading the cost estimating function for capital and O&M (Operations & Maintenance) projects in the power utility sector. This role ensures the delivery of accurate, timely, and defensible cost estimates across all project phases—from feasibility and planning to execution and closeout—supporting strategic decision-making and budgeting for transmission, distribution, substation, and renewable energy projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of cost estimators in developing Class 5 to Class 1 estimates for capital projects in accordance with AACE (Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering) standards.
• Oversee cost estimation for substation upgrades, transmission line expansions, and grid modernization initiatives.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized estimation tools, templates, databases, and cost libraries.
• Review engineering designs, construction methodologies, and procurement strategies to develop comprehensive cost models.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, construction, and finance teams to ensure estimates align with current market conditions and project assumptions.
• Perform risk analysis and cost contingency assessments based on project complexity, scope, and potential uncertainties.
• Provide executive-level reporting and presentations, including cost benchmarking, variance analysis, and cost-to-complete projections.
• Support project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation through integrated cost/schedule analysis.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field; Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in cost estimation, with at least 5 years in management or team lead role.
• Strong background in utility-scale projects, particularly in electric power transmission, distribution, or generation.
• Proficiency in estimation software tools (e.g., Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, Cleopatra, Sage Estimating, CostX, or similar).
• Familiarity with project management and ERP systems (e.g., Primavera P6, SAP, or Oracle).
• Certification such as CCP (Certified Cost Professional) or PMP (Project Management Professional) preferred.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and communication skills.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience with renewable energy cost modeling (solar, wind, battery storage).
• Knowledge of regulatory and rate case implications on utility project cost structures.
• Ability to work in a matrixed organization and manage cross-functional teams.
• Understanding labor rates, material costing, vendor pricing, and contract negotiation

Benefits*:TRC offers a competitive benefit package consisting of:

• Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• 401k package that includes both traditional and Roth IRA options and Company match.
• Paid time off contingent upon full time or part time status and level of seniority (ranging from 15 to 25 days per year).
• All full-time employees enjoy a minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year.
• TRC ensures that all employees, including those that work part-time, receive paid sick, family, and disability leave in accordance with the laws of their state of residence.

*These benefits are applicable to US employees depending on their employment status (full time, part time, or temporary). TRC offers jurisdiction specific benefit packages for International and Puerto Rico employees.

Compensation: In accordance with local law, the below salary range is applicable for the job and location associated with this requisition. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.

Other Compensation:Employee may be eligible for participation in the Company’s annual Discretionary Bonus Program which is contingent on Company, Business Segment, and Individual performance against Key Performance Indicators which vary by year and employee.

Disclaimers

TRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The complete job description and application are available onTRC’s career site.

TRC accepts applications for this position on an ongoing, rolling basis and reserves the right to cancel this posting at any time.