Substation Estimator – Electrical

Wendler Inc.; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP ownership

Job summary

Wendler Inc. in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking an experienced Substation Estimator to develop accurate, competitive estimates for electrical substation construction, expansions, and upgrades.

The ideal candidate has at least 3 years of estimating experience in electrical substations, a Bachelor’s degree preferred in Construction Management or Electrical Engineering, and proficiency with Bluebeam, Excel, and estimating software.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of electrical substation construction methods, materials, equipment, and industry standards.
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings, construction plans, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs, develop detailed cost estimates, and prepare competitive bid proposals.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and applicable construction estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret drawings, specs, and bid documents to develop accurate estimates for electrical substation projects.
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs, labor calculations, material pricing, equipment costs, and BOMs.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors for quotations.
• Evaluate scope, methods, site conditions, scheduling, and risks to ensure complete estimates.
• Identify discrepancies and constructability concerns, communicating findings and solutions.

Skills

Electrical substation knowledge

Estimating experience

Analytical thinking

Detail orientation

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Bluebeam

Microsoft Excel

Estimating software

Job description

Summary

Wendler Inc. is seeking an experienced Substation Estimator to support our growing electrical construction operations

Location

Cedar Rapids, IA

Summary

Wendler Inc. is seeking an experienced Substation Estimator to support our growing electrical construction operations

Department: Estimating

Reports to: VP of Business Development

Effective Date: 10/08/2026

This position is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive estimates for electrical substation construction, expansions, and upgrades, as well as associated infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of electrical utility construction, demonstrated estimating experience, and the ability to independently evaluate project requirements, identify risks, and develop detailed cost estimates. Success in this role requires a self-starter who is analytical, detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Review and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate, competitive, and comprehensive estimates for electrical substation projects.
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs, labor calculations, material pricing, equipment costs, and bills of materials.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain, evaluate, and negotiate competitive quotations.
• Evaluate project scope, construction methods, site conditions, scheduling requirements, and potential risks to ensure complete and realistic cost estimates.
• Identify discrepancies, scope gaps, and constructability concerns, proactively communicating findings and recommended solutions.
• Utilize Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and estimating software to prepare, organize, and validate estimates.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, and project management teams to develop effective bidding strategies and ensure alignment with project requirements.
• Prepare and submit organized bid proposals, including supporting documentation, assumptions, and exclusions, for management review and approval.
• Manage multiple estimating assignments, ensuring accuracy, compliance with bid requirements, and timely completion of deadlines.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project handoffs while maintaining accurate estimating records and supporting continuous process improvement.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of electrical substation construction methods, materials, equipment, and industry standards.
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings, construction plans, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs, develop detailed cost estimates, and prepare competitive bid proposals.
• Proficiency in Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and applicable construction estimating software.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, take initiative, and follow through on commitments.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize competing responsibilities and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively, adapt to changing priorities, and proactively address challenges.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry or electrical trade experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years of construction estimating experience, including direct experience in electrical substation or high-voltage utility construction.
• Experience with substation construction projects, including new installations, expansions, upgrades, and associated electrical and civil infrastructure.
• Familiarity with utility construction contracts, industry regulations, and applicable project requirements.

Why Wendler Inc.?

At Wendler, we’re not just building infrastructure, we’re building careers. As an employee-owned company (ESOP), we invest in our people, recognize their contributions, and provide opportunities for long-term professional and financial growth. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to complex infrastructure projects, collaborate with experienced industry professionals, and play an important role in our business’s continued growth.

Substation Estimator – Electrical