Project Estimator-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

NiSource • Columbus, OH

3d • $82,200 - $123,200 • Hybrid

About The Position

This position is designed to be filled at the Project Estimator level; however, candidates with advanced experience in power-related estimating, demonstrated leadership in developing complex estimates, and a strong track record of managing large-scale projects may be considered for hire at the Senior Project Estimator level. At NiSource, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy to the communities we serve. We are seeking a Senior Project Estimator to support the development and execution of major capital power and energy infrastructure projects. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that cost estimates are accurate, transparent, and aligned with regulatory expectations, supporting sound investment decisions and long-term planning. The Senior Project Estimator partners across engineering, project development, supply chain, and construction teams to develop estimates that reflect technical scope, market conditions, and execution strategy. Projects may include: Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) generation, Simple cycle / peaking generation, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Renewable energy (solar, wind), Transmission interconnections and substations, Grid improvement technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 10+ years of experience in cost estimating
• Minimum 5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects
• Proven ability to develop estimates for large-scale capital projects ($100M+)
• Strong understanding of: Engineering design development; Construction practices and execution strategies; Procurement and contracting approaches
• Proficiency with estimating tools such as: Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, InEight Estimate, Cleopatra, Sage, or similar
• Advanced Excel modeling

Nice To Haves

• Experience within a regulated utility environment
• Experience estimating: CCGT or simple cycle generation; Battery energy storage systems (BESS); Renewable energy and grid infrastructure
• Professional certifications such as AACE CCP, PMP, or equivalent
• Experience supporting IRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings
• Experience in EPC, EPCM, or owner’s project delivery models

Responsibilities

• Lead development of Class 5 through Class 1 estimates in alignment with AACE principles
• Prepare total installed cost (TIC) estimates including EPC, owner’s costs, contingency, and escalation
• Perform quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings, specifications, and conceptual designs
• Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs
• Clearly define estimate bases, assumptions, exclusions, and methodologies
• Prepare estimate packages that are suitable for governance reviews and investment decisions, including basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, key risks, and confidence ranges
• Support capital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long-term investment strategies
• Provide cost inputs to support regulatory filings, rate cases, and investment approvals
• Develop estimate ranges and confidence levels aligned to project stage and governance requirements
• Evaluate alternative project configurations and execution strategies to support least-cost, best-fit solutions
• Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems, including: Gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, and balance of plant; Electrical systems, substations, and grid interconnection; Energy storage systems (BESS, inverters, controls)
• Participate in technology selection, site evaluations, and constructability reviews
• Support project development activities from early-stage screening through execution readiness
• Perform cost validation, benchmarking, and estimate reconciliation
• Lead risk assessment and contingency development, incorporating uncertainty and market variability
• Monitor and incorporate: Labor availability and productivity trends; Commodity pricing and escalation; Equipment and supply chain constraints
• Maintain and enhance historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks
• Work closely with engineering, project management, supply chain, finance, and regulatory teams
• Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams
• Develop Independent Cost Estimates (ICEs) and support contractor bid evaluations and negotiations
• Support review of contractor change notices and validation of change orders for approval
• Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners
• Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution by validating commercial changes, reconciling contractor pricing, and informing forecast updates
• Strengthen estimating tools, processes, and data governance
• Promote consistency and best practices across the capital portfolio
• Mentor and support development of junior estimators and staff as necessary

Benefits

• Contribute to critical infrastructure investments that power and connect communities
• Support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future
• Work on large, impactful capital projects across a diverse portfolio
• Collaborate with experienced professionals in a safety-first, values-driven organization
• Named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers
• Inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level