Substation Estimator II

Irby Construction Company•Lockhart, TX

About The Position

A Substation Estimator II at Irby Construction Company is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for utility, infrastructure, and civil construction projects. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret project specifications, drawings, and bid documents. The Estimator collaborates with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to ensure estimates align with project requirements and organizational goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
5+ years of experience in utility or infrastructure estimating (gas, electric, civil).
Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and industry standards.
Proficiency in estimating software and MS Office Suite.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple bids simultaneously.
Experience in electrical estimating, preferably within data center, industrial, or mission-critical projects.
Proficiency in Excel, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, and modern estimating software (e.g., Accubid, Trimble, ConEst, or similar).
Strong understanding of electrical systems, codes, and installation practices.
Demonstrated ability to interpret drawings, technical specs, 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 government agencies (local, state, or federal).
Experience with Department of Energy (DOE) or related infrastructure projects.
Knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) for government bids.
Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) – American Society of Professional Estimators.
Project Management Professional (PMP) – PMI (preferred for senior estimators).
OSHA Safety Certification (preferred).

Responsibilities

Review RFPs, RFQs, drawings, and specifications to determine project scope and requirements.
Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services.
Identify high-risk cost areas and recommend contingencies or mitigation strategies.
Send out scope requests and contract information to potential subcontractors for pricing quotes.
Validate subcontractor and vendor pricing for accuracy and scope alignment.
Develop bid clarifications and proposal documents for submission to clients.
Develop detailed electrical cost estimates for data centers and other large EPC projects.
Participate in preconstruction planning and conceptual budgeting during early project development stages.
Create work breakdown structures and cost code alignment for estimates.
Incorporate risk analysis and contingency planning into estimates.
Maintain historical cost data and update estimating databases for accuracy.
Review drawings, specifications, and design documents to identify scope and potential cost impacts.
Perform quantity take-offs using Bluebeam and/or other digital tools.
Manage vendor and subcontractor pricing, ensuring comprehensive and timely coverage.
Maintain cost databases, benchmarking tools, and historical records to support pricing consistency and continuous improvement.
Support handoff from estimating to project management post-award, ensuring scope clarity and cost integrity.
Participate in forecasting cost and cash flow of projects.
Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams during bid preparation.
Collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and trade partners to ensure estimating accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
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.