Senior HV/BESS Estimator

Q-Cells North America • Ankeny, IA

287d • Remote

About The Position

As a Senior HV/BESS Estimator in our utility-scale solar Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) company, you will play a crucial role in the successful execution of our projects. You will work closely with the estimators and work closely with various departments to accurately estimate costs and resources required for utility-scale solar+BESS and standalone BESS projects. Your expertise will guide decision-making processes, ensuring the profitability and efficiency of our projects. Your primary focus will be providing firm bid/submittal documents and cost estimates inclusive of all activities related to high voltage substations and BESS pricing by leveling, reviewing, and analyzing subcontractor and material proposals, performing take-offs, scope reviews, risk identification, engineering optimization, and increasing margins through identifying cost efficiencies. This position reports to the Senior HV/BESS Estimating Manager in charge of overseeing all estimating activities and approvals related to the EPC business or another senior management personnel that the CEO of the company may designate. This position is hybrid and reports to the Ankeny, IA office and working hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm or 9:00am to 6:00pm local time. Overtime and weekend working hours may be required as needed. This position is expected to travel up to 25%.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree and/or relevant certificate from college or technical school. No degree will be considered if relevant experience exceeds 3 years.
• 5+ years relevant experience in estimating and project management, with at least 3 years of experience in utility-scale solar, HV, and BESS projects.
• Background in commercial construction, electrical equipment supply, and/or power plant engineering.
• Strong understanding of utility Solar and Battery storage installation and Best Practices.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, up to 25%.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, computer fluency, agile and effective negotiator.
• Work experience in construction-related estimation (solar PV and BESS projects in particular) strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in cost estimation software and tools, such as HCSS HeavyBid or similar applications.
• Advanced knowledge in Microsoft Office Suite, Smartsheet, and Procore experience is preferred.
• Self-motivated, superior organization skills and attention to detail.
• Assertive, ability to cope with dynamic surroundings.
• Proven leadership and management skills, with experience leading teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand project requirements and deadlines.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the estimation process.
• Develop and manage cost models.
• Use computer estimating software to create and compile estimates.
• Develop assemblies in estimating software.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates for utility-scale solar projects specifically related to the HV Substation and BESS including materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documents to accurately determine project scope and requirements.
• Utilize historical data, industry benchmarks, and market trends to ensure cost estimates are realistic and competitive.
• Review and validate subcontractor bids and quotations.
• Collaborate with project managers to develop resource plans based on estimated costs and project schedules.
• Identify and quantify resource requirements, including manpower, equipment, and materials.
• Optimize resource allocation to maximize efficiency and minimize project risks.
• Develop labor productivity and installation unit costs based on projected site conditions and historical data.
• Identify potential risks and uncertainties associated with project estimates.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address identified risks.
• Conduct sensitivity analysis to assess the impact of various factors on project costs and profitability.
• Prepare comprehensive bid proposals in response to client requests for proposals (RFPs) and invitations to bid (ITBs).
• Ensure bid proposals are accurate, competitive, and aligned with project requirements and company objectives.
• Collaborate with business development and sales teams to develop pricing strategies and negotiate contracts with clients.
• Maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure competitive pricing and timely delivery of materials and services.
• Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate pricing agreements to achieve cost savings and improve project profitability.
• Review project estimates to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company standards and industry best practices.
• Implement quality assurance processes to validate project estimates and identify areas for improvement.

Benefits

• Hybrid work environment
• Overtime and weekend working hours may be required as needed
• Travel up to 25% as needed

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Utilities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree