Principal Cost Estimator, Electric Transmission Job Details | National Grid

About the position

The Principal Cost Estimator, Electric Transmission, will be responsible for developing and managing cost estimates for electric transmission projects. This role involves preparing detailed cost estimates, analyzing project costs, and providing cost-related insights to support project planning and execution. The Principal Cost Estimator will work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and other internal and external stakeholders to ensure accurate and comprehensive cost assessments. A significant focus will be on competitive transmission solicitations, ensuring that cost estimates are competitive and align with industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed cost estimates for multiple concurrent electric transmission projects, including new construction, upgrades, and maintenance of transmission lines, substations and/or converter stations.
• Lead the cost estimation efforts for competitive transmission solicitations, ensuring that estimates are accurate, competitive, and compliant with solicitation requirements.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, financial modeling, supply chain and procurement teams to gather necessary information and ensure alignment on project scope and cost estimates.
• Identify potential cost risks and develop mitigation strategies to manage cost uncertainties.
• Prepare and present cost reports, summaries, and analyses to project teams and senior management.
• Stay updated with industry trends, cost estimation methodologies, and best practices to continuously improve the accuracy and efficiency of cost estimation processes.
• Build and maintain a comprehensive database of cost information for electric transmission projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in cost estimation for electric transmission projects or related fields.
• Proficiency in cost estimation software and tools, such as Primavera, Microsoft Excel, and other relevant applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex project data.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in cost estimation and reporting.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or Project Management Professional (PMP) are a plus.
• Experience with high voltage direct current (HVDC), and 345kV up to 765kV HVAC electric transmission projects and estimation preferred.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards for electric transmission projects.
• Experience in Monte Carlo, PERT or similar cost sensitivity analysis is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of risk management and cost control techniques.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working for Engineering, Construction / EPC Firm developing their Cost Estimates for Bids / Proposals would be Highly Desirable.

Benefits

• Salary range for New England, MA: $157,000 - $185,000 a year.
• Salary range for Downstate, NY: $168,000 - $198,000 a year.
• Career path with advancement opportunities.