Estimator

Quanta Services•Lexington, SC

About The Position

An Estimator at Irby Construction Company prepares accurate and competitive cost estimates for utility, infrastructure, and civil construction projects. The role requires interpreting project specifications, drawings, and bid documents, and collaborating with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and trade partners to align estimates with project requirements and organizational goals. The Estimator also develops detailed electrical estimates for data centers and other large EPC projects and supports preconstruction budgeting, bid preparation, and the transition of awarded work to project management. The position is primarily office-based, with occasional travel to project sites for pre-bid meetings and site assessments. The role involves extended computer work and occasional lifting and carrying of items weighing up to 20 pounds. Site visitors must be able to navigate construction sites safely. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 5 years of experience in utility or infrastructure estimating, such as gas, electric, or civil.
Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and industry standards.
Proficiency in estimating software and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple bids simultaneously.
Experience in electrical estimating, preferably on data center, industrial, or mission-critical projects.
Proficiency in Excel, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, and modern estimating software such as Accubid, Trimble, ConEst, or similar.
Strong understanding of electrical systems, codes, and installation practices.
Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, technical specifications, and schedules.
Tech-savvy and detail-oriented, with a commitment to accuracy and efficiency.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with public works departments, utility companies, and local, state, or federal government agencies.
Experience with Department of Energy (DOE) or related infrastructure projects.
Knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) for government bids.
Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) credential from the American Society of Professional Estimators.
Project Management Professional (PMP) credential from PMI, preferred for senior estimators.
OSHA Safety Certification.

Responsibilities

Review RFPs, RFQs, drawings, specifications, and design documents to determine project scope, requirements, and potential cost impacts.
Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor services, and electrical work.
Identify high-risk cost areas and recommend contingencies or mitigation strategies.
Send scope requests and contract information to potential subcontractors to obtain pricing.
Validate subcontractor and vendor pricing for accuracy and alignment with project scope.
Develop bid clarifications and proposal documents for submission to clients.
Participate in preconstruction planning and conceptual budgeting during early project development.
Create work breakdown structures and align estimate cost codes.
Incorporate risk analysis and contingency planning into estimates.
Perform quantity take-offs using Bluebeam and/or other digital tools.
Manage vendor and subcontractor pricing to ensure comprehensive and timely coverage.
Maintain historical cost data, estimating databases, cost databases, benchmarking tools, and records.
Support the post-award handoff from estimating to project management, ensuring scope clarity and cost integrity.
Participate in project cost and cash-flow forecasting.
Coordinate and collaborate with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and trade partners during bid preparation.
Participate in pre-bid meetings and site walks to gather project details.
Communicate estimate assumptions and requirements to stakeholders.
Ensure estimates comply with company standards, client requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
Maintain organized bid folders for drawings, specifications, correspondence, and clarifications.

Benefits

Multiple BCBS medical plan options, with in-network preventive care covered at no cost and access to virtual care.
Prescription drug coverage with medical plans, plus tools and advocacy support for managing healthcare costs.
Dental coverage, including preventive care and orthodontia options for adults and children.
Vision coverage with annual exams and frame allowances.
Health Savings Account (HSA), Healthcare FSA, Limited Purpose FSA, and Dependent Care FSA options.
401(k) retirement plan with immediate eligibility and vesting, and a company match of up to 4.5%.
Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance, with optional supplemental life insurance for employees and dependents.
Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
Employee Assistance Program providing confidential mental health, financial, family, and wellbeing support at no cost to employees and their households.
Optional accident, hospital indemnity, critical illness, identity theft protection, pet insurance, home and auto insurance, and long-term care coverage.
Access to exclusive employee discounts and participation in Quanta Cares, a disaster relief fund for employees and families.
Inclusive, family-oriented work culture and opportunities for career growth and advancement.