Utility Solar - Estimator II

Baker Electric•Escondido, CA

About The Position

The Estimator II independently supports the estimating process from initial review through bid submission. The role completes detailed quantity takeoffs, analyzes drawings and specifications, solicits and levels vendor pricing, and builds accurate, competitive electrical estimates for utility-scale solar projects. Working with a Senior Estimator or Estimating Manager, the Estimator II helps ensure that bids are complete, clearly documented, and aligned with the full project scope and the company's estimating standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred
If no degree, 2+ years of commercial electrical field experience or completion of an electrical trade program
2–4 years of electrical estimating or construction-related experience
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Accubid, Blue Beam), including creating takeoffs, assemblies, and estimate reports
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, blueprints, and specifications across disciplines to determine electrical scope
Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and ability to validate quantities and pricing assumptions
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a bid-driven environment
Effective communication and teamwork skills; able to coordinate with project teams and vendors to obtain complete inputs
Demonstrates willingness to learn and grow in electrical estimating and take on increasing estimating responsibility
Strong knowledge of electrical systems, electrical theory, materials, and construction methods through training and on-the-job experience

Nice To Haves

Experience with CRM or cloud-based systems (e.g., Salesforce) preferred

Responsibilities

Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using Accubid (including device counts, branch circuitry, feeders, conduit, and support systems as required by the bid)
Review project drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to confirm scope, inclusions/exclusions, and estimating requirements
Develop and validate labor, material, and equipment costs using assemblies, production assumptions, and historical benchmarks
Draft complete bid proposals, scope letters, and estimate backup that clearly communicates inclusions, exclusions, and clarifications
Track bid deliverables, internal reviews, and submission deadlines to ensure complete and on-time bid packages
Interpret electrical symbols and systems to identify conduit routing, wiring methods, equipment locations, and installation requirements from the plans and specs
Review structural, civil drawings to identify coordination impacts, access constraints, and scope risks that affect the electrical estimate
Draft, for review by the estimate lead, RFIs and bid clarifications for general contractors, and document scope assumptions and exclusions.
Request, scope, and follow up on pricing from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors based on drawings, specifications, and alternates
Review, organize, and scope incoming quotes for completeness, inclusions/exclusions, lead times, and compliance with specifications
Maintain vendor relationships and update pricing databases, assemblies, and material/vendor lists for estimating accuracy
Level and compare vendor and subcontractor quotes, identify scope gaps, and align selections with the estimate basis
Provide clear bid status updates to internal stakeholders, including risks, clarifications, and pricing movement
Collaborate with estimating, project management, and field teams to confirm means and methods, labor approach, scheduling impacts, and field feedback
Attend job walks and site visits to evaluate existing conditions, access, phasing, and other field constraints that affect pricing on a case-by-case basis
Complete bid submissions (online portals), ensuring all required forms, alternates, and attachments are included
Responsible for document control, and bid-day support
Maintain organized project files, takeoff backups, vendor quotes, and estimate documentation in company systems
Support continuous improvement of estimating processes, templates, and tools to improve accuracy, speed, and consistency
Complete additional tasks and special projects as assigned