Substation Estimator/Project Manager

American Power Utilities•Rapid City, SD

9h•Onsite

About The Position

American Power Utilities (APU) is expanding and building a team of experienced utility construction professionals to support our continued growth. American Power Utilities (APU) provides full-spectrum construction services across the electrical power infrastructure landscape. We deliver distribution, transmission, and substation construction projects nationwide, backed by decades of experience supporting the utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and industrial clients that keep power moving every day. As APU continues to grow, we are hiring a Substation Estimator/Project Manager to play a critical role in winning and delivering complex infrastructure projects. In this role, you’ll lead the development of accurate, competitive estimates and support execution across high-voltage substation and transmission work. You’ll have the opportunity to impact projects from preconstruction through delivery, working on essential power infrastructure including substations, transmission foundations, battery energy storage (BESS), and system upgrades.

Requirements

8–10+ years of experience in electrical estimating, construction, or project management within the utility or energy infrastructure space
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, one-line diagrams, civil plans, and specifications with a high degree of accuracy
Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and cost drivers for utility infrastructure
Experience developing detailed cost estimates and managing multiple bids simultaneously
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating tools; experience building cost databases is a plus
Strong attention to detail, organization, and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Excellent communication skills with the ability to coordinate across internal teams and external partners
Ability and willingness to travel to project sites and pre-bid meetings as needed
Must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting substation, transmission & distribution (T&D), BESS, power generation, or similar infrastructure projects strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Lead the estimating process for utility infrastructure projects, from initial review through final bid submission
Evaluate RFPs, drawings, and specifications to define project scope, risks, and pricing approach
Develop complete cost estimates including labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractor scope
Prepare and manage subcontractor bid packages; solicit, evaluate, and level vendor proposals
Participate in site visits, pre-bid meetings, and constructability reviews
Partner with engineering, procurement, and operations to ensure estimate accuracy and alignment with execution plans
Perform other estimating and pre‑construction duties as needed
Identify value engineering opportunities and recommend cost-effective solutions
Perform risk analysis and support development of mitigation strategies
Prepare proposal materials, schedules, and pricing narratives as needed
Support project handoff to operations and contribute through early-stage project execution as needed
Maintain estimating tools, cost data, and vendor relationships to support ongoing competitiveness
Perform other preconstruction and project support duties as needed
Other duties as assigned