HV/BESS Estimator

Hanwha Qcells USA Corp (Qcells USA), headquartered in Houston, TX, specializes in providing utility-scale modules, solar photovoltaic (PV), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) project development, along with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects nationwide. Qcells USA delivers comprehensive turnkey solutions encompassing the entire utility-scale project lifecycle, reducing uncertainty and risk while enhancing investment returns and contributing to a sustainable future.

About the role

As a 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 projects. You will work closely with estimators and 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 profitability and efficiency. This position reports to the Senior HV/BESS Estimating Manager and is remote, with travel up to 25% to job sites. Working hours are Monday through Friday, with overtime and weekend work as needed.

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 using computer estimating software; create and compile estimates; develop assemblies in estimating software.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates for utility-scale solar projects specifically related to 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.
• 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; participate in bid review meetings.
• 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.
• Keep up-to-date on local building codes and maintain project directives.
• Travel up to 25% as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree and/or relevant certificate from college or technical school. No degree will be considered if relevant experience exceeds 3 years.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in estimating and project management, with at least 3 years of experience in utility-scale solar, HV, and BESS projects (construction, energy industry preferred).
• 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; effective negotiation skills.
• 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 preferred.
• Self-motivated with superior organization skills and attention to detail.
• Assertive, with the ability to cope with dynamic surroundings.
• Proven leadership and management skills, with experience leading teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Understanding of EPC contracting and electrical theory.
• Understanding of environmental, geotechnical, and hydrological reports.
• General understanding of current HV and BESS equipment and impacts of each system.

Physical Demands

• Frequently remains stationary up to 90% of the time and sits up to 8 hours in a day.
• Infrequently bends, stands, stoops, and/or walks.
• Infrequently carries weight and/or lifts objects (light to heavy) weighing up to 10 pounds.
• Frequently communicates with the ability to hear and talk on a regular basis with employees, coworkers, and personnel; must exchange accurate information.
• Frequent use of sight to detect images on computer, office documents, and office objects near and far.
• Occasionally ascends/descends stairways to access office upper and lower floors.
• Travel up to 25% as needed.

Work Environment

• Regular professional, office business setting with noise levels ranging from low to moderate.
• Noise level ranges from moderate to high if on a construction worksite.
• Under the Office Mobilization Plan (OMP) policy, the role may transition to an onsite or hybrid arrangement as determined by business needs.