Substation Estimator (Hudson, OH)

Sonepar USA Inc; Hudson (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K Plan

Competitive medical plans

Paid time off

Holidays & PTO

Job summary

Irby Utilities in Ohio is seeking a Substation Estimator to prepare accurate material takeoffs, cost estimates, and quotes for substation projects. You will read electrical and civil drawings, identify required components, and coordinate with vendors to support bids and proposals.

Responsibilities include developing takeoffs for transformers, breakers, switches, capacitors, bus systems, and civil elements; negotiating with suppliers to secure competitive costs; tracking changes and supporting

Qualifications

• Ability to learn and understand electrical plans, specifications and construction drawings.
• Knowledge of substation materials, mechanical, and electrical functions.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates under deadlines.
• Ability to perform mathematical functions.
• Strong negotiation skills with vendors and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret substation electrical and structural specifications, and construction drawings to develop complete and accurate project estimates.
• Develop detailed material takeoffs and estimates for substation projects, including transformers, circuit breakers, switches, capacitors, bus components, and civil elements.
• Negotiate with vendors to secure competitive costs while managing financial risk.
• Track revisions, RFIs, and scope changes impacting estimates.
• Collaborate with sales, project services, and branches to support project execution and customer expectations.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships to position Irby as a preferred supplier.

Skills

Electrical plans reading

Substation materials knowledge

Cost estimation

Financial modeling

Bid management

Communication & collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Your next career opportunity

As one of the largest utility distribution organizations in America, we constantly strive to bring our best to our customers, suppliers, and fellow associates. Irby Utilities is uniquely positioned to provide dynamic solutions to essential utility services impacting our local and broader communities.

Job Summary

The Substation Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate material takeoffs, cost estimates, and quotations for substation‑related projects. This role requires the ability to read and understand electrical and civil drawings, identify required substation materials and equipment, and coordinate with internal teams and vendors to support customer bids and proposals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret substation electrical and structural specifications, and construction drawings to develop complete and accurate project estimates.
• Develop detailed material takeoffs and estimates for substation projects, including:
  • Power Transformers and transformer accessories
  • Circuit breakers and reclosers
  • Switches (disconnects, load break switches, gang operated)
  • Capacitor banks and reactors
  • Bus pipe, bus fittings and expansion components
  • Connectors, clamps, insulators, and hardware
  • Substation structures, foundations, and related civil components.
• Actively engage in vendor pricing negotiations to secure competitive costs while managing financial risk.
• Track revisions, RFIs, and scope changes impacting estimates.
• Collaborate with sales, Project Services operation, and branch/warehouse personnel to support project execution and customer expectations.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships to position Irby as a preferred supplier and trusted partner.
• Support sales efforts by identifying opportunities, proposing solutions, and aligning estimates with customer needs.
• Understand and apply financial modeling concepts related to project‑oriented work, including margin risk and return.
• Manage multiple bids concurrently while meeting tight deadlines and maintaining accuracy.
• Participate as a key contributor in a high‑performing, independent team environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to learn and understand electrical plans, specifications and construction drawings.
• Knowledge of substation materials, mechanical, and electrical functions.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates under deadlines.
• Ability to perform mathematical functions.
• Unbound thinking or the ability to create insightful, exciting solutions for both customer and company problems with major account sales.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across internal teams and external partners.
• Must be PC literate with knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, & PowerPoint) required.
• Proven negotiation skills with vendors and suppliers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred minimum 3 years industry or distributor sales experience; desired 5+ years business experience in the utility industry market.
• Familiarity with high‑voltage and medium voltage substation systems.
• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from a four‑year college or university; or three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. An engineering or technical degree is a plus but not required.

Why work for Irby?

Irby Utilities is a crucial link in the distribution chain, connecting manufacturers to their customers in electrical power, natural gas, and broadband services. Our team delivers end‑to‑end solutions through logistical and operational support, sales and account management, project services, data analysis, and more. We firmly attribute our success to our people in each of these fields, and we are constantly advancing our skills and abilities.

Our Competitive Benefits

401K Plan, competitive medical plans (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off, paid company holidays, floating holiday, on demand pay, flexible spending accounts (health and dependent care), employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, long‑term and short‑term disability, and life insurance.

About Irby

Irby is a leading fulfillment and solutions provider for utility and utility contracting marketplaces. Pairing nearly 100 years of utility experience with the industry's top technologies and manufacturers, Irby is poised to provide innovative products and customized services to serve its nationwide client base best. Irby offers a complete portfolio to each of its core business segments: distribution, transmission, substation, generation, renewable energy, EPC, fiber/broadband communications, and gas. Visit irby.com for more.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sonepar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, an unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other categories protected by federal, state or local law.

Sonepar and our family of brands are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, we will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process or to perform the essential functions of the position and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please call 843‑745‑2420 or email recruiting@sonepar‑us.com.

To learn more, visit https://www.eeoc.gov/equal-employment-opportunity-laws.