Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure

Smart Tech Contracting, LLC

38d • Remote

About The Position

The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure is the owner of automation estimating discipline for mission critical hyperscale and colocation data‑center projects from 10 MW to 200 MW and budgets of $10M – $150 M+ per campus. You will lead the full proposal life‑cycle— reviewing RFPs, analyzing scope, building detailed cost models, and crafting winning strategies that balance speed‑to‑market with Tier III/IV reliability.

The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will steward and continuously improve our estimating software stack and standard proposal templates while interfacing daily with engineering, procurement, construction, PMO, and business‑development teams to align scope, risk, and commercial strategy.

You will cultivate preferred pricing with vendors, hardware / software channel partners and key subcontractors, mentor and train junior estimators, enforce data‑quality standards, and publish KPI reports for leadership teams.

The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will be self-directed on day-to-day work and receive high level instruction on new projects, tasks or assignments.

The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will execute and lead teams and projects, tasks or assignments of complex scope. May coordinate activities of other personnel.

This person will communicate and operate in line with organizational goals and values, as well as departmental objectives.

Requirements

• Technical Depth: Working knowledge of PLC platforms (Rockwell ControlLogix, Schneider M580), DDC hardware (Distech, Honeywell), SCADA/Historian software (Ignition, AVEVA, Tridium Niagara4), and mechanical and electrical integration
• Software: Bid Management platforms (e.g. Building Connected, Procore); Bluebeam Revu, and Power BI for reporting and KPI analysis.
• Standards & Codes: Familiarity with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, ISA 88/95, ISA/IEC 62443, Uptime Institute Tier Guidelines.
• Soft Skills: Persuasive communicator, strong commercial acumen, decisive under tight proposal deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex project requirements and develop accurate estimates
• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, Sharepoint), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management
• Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and persuasively
• Strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and completeness in all aspects of the estimating process
• Strong negotiation skills, particularly in dealing with vendors and subcontractors
• Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation
• Ability to analyze market trends and apply cost data effectively
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, vendors, partners, and internal teams
• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace
• Ability to identify and analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions
• Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)
• Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with little supervision
• Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
• Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, business, or related discipline
• Minimum of 8 years’ estimating experience for systems integrator in industrial automation or mission critical industry
• Demonstrated Success: Lead estimator on at least five mission‑critical projects ≥40 MW awarded to your company

Nice To Haves

• ASPE CPE
• AACE International CCP
• PMI PMP
• LEED GA

Responsibilities

• Dissect RFPs, drawings, and specifications for BAS, PLC, DDC, SCADA, EPMS, DCIM, and OT network scope
• Produce labor & material take‑offs, apply regional labor indices, and build bottoms‑up cost models
• Drive value‑engineering options that maintain Uptime Tier targets while reducing capex/OPEX.
• Implement new estimating tool stack supporting greater speed and accuracy for larger complex projects
• Implement new Bid management tools for qualifying trade partners and soliciting sub pricing
• Build and Manage budgeting database supporting quick evaluations, improving speed of response to RFPs.
• Develop Power BI dashboards or similar for margin and accuracy tracking
• Pilot AI‑assisted workflows and tools to automate and streamline estimating phase efforts
• Continuously evaluate and improve preconstruction processes and tools to improve speed, accuracy and efficiency
• Issue RFQs, analyze bids, and negotiate T&Cs for control panel shops, material vendors and subcontractors
• Maintain OEM and vendor pricing lists and agreements and negotiate pricing
• Lead estimate review calls with hyperscale owner teams; defend cost drivers, productivity factors, and contingency rationale
• Support Business Development teams by building relationships with clients and contractor Preconstruction teams, and converting conceptual budgets into executable contracts through budgeting exercises and formal RFP iterations.
• Coach junior estimators and interns; author estimating SOPs and playbooks
• Publish weekly/monthly KPI reports (bid volume, win rate, forecast vs. actual)
• Work closely with project management teams to ensure a smooth transition from estimation to execution
• Provide detailed documentation and support to project teams during the handover process
• Leverage AI-enabled and digital tools to enhance efficiency, reduce manual effort, and support consistent, high-quality work output.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and demonstrate a continuous learning mindset, seeking out new technologies, skills, and methods that elevate individual and team performance.
• Adapt to emerging technologies and evolving digital workflows, actively supporting the integration and adoption of innovative tools across the organization.
• Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned

Benefits

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option)
• Dental and vision plans
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse / domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26
• 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option
• PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year
• Company paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Short and long-term disability, AD&D coverage
• Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance
• Paid parental leave after one year of employment

What This Job Offers

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