Lead Project Estimator-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

Job Summary

At NiSource, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy to the communities we serve. We are seeking a Lead Project Estimator to support the development and execution of major capital power and energy infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Cost Estimating & Analysis
  Lead development of Class 5 through Class 1 estimates in alignment with AACE principles
  Prepare total installed cost (TIC) estimates including EPC, owner’s costs, contingency, and escalation
  Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs
  Clearly define estimate bases, assumptions, exclusions, and methodologies
  Prepare estimate packages that are suitable for governance reviews and investment decisions, including basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, key risks, and confidence ranges

• Capital Planning & Regulatory Support
  Support capital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long-term investment strategies
  Provide cost inputs to support regulatory filings, rate cases, and investment approvals
  Develop estimate ranges and confidence levels aligned to project stage and governance requirements
  Evaluate alternative project configurations and execution strategies to support least-cost, best-fit solutions

• Technical Integration & Project Development
  Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems, including: Gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, and balance of plant
  Electrical systems, substations, and grid interconnection
  Energy storage systems (BESS, inverters, controls)
  Participate in technology selection, site evaluations, and constructability reviews
  Support project development activities from early-stage screening through execution readiness

• Risk, Market Awareness & Benchmarking
  Perform cost validation, benchmarking, and estimate reconciliation
  Lead risk assessment and contingency development, incorporating uncertainty and market variability
  Maintain and enhance historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
  Work closely with engineering, project management, supply chain, finance, and regulatory teams
  Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams
  Develop Independent Cost Estimates (ICEs) and support contractor bid evaluations and negotiations
  Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners
  Support review of contractor change notices and validation of change orders for approval
  Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution by validating commercial changes, reconciling contractor pricing, and informing forecast updates

• Continuous Improvement
  Strengthen estimating tools, processes, and data governance
  Promote consistency and best practices across the capital portfolio
  Mentor and support development of junior estimators and staff as necessary

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 10+ years of experience in cost estimating
• Minimum 5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects
• Proven ability to develop estimates for large-scale capital projects ($100M+)
• Strong understanding of: Engineering design development, Construction practices and execution strategies, Procurement and contracting approaches
• Proficiency with estimating tools such as: Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, InEight Estimate, Cleopatra, Sage, or similar
• Advanced Excel modeling

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within a regulated utility environment
• Experience estimating: CCGT or simple cycle generation, Battery energy storage systems (BESS), Renewable energy and grid infrastructure
• Professional certifications such as AACE CCP, PMP, or equivalent
• Experience supporting IRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings
• Experience in EPC, EPCM, or owner’s project delivery models

Key Competencies

• Commitment to safety and operational excellence
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Clear and effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to balance detail-oriented analysis with strategic decision-making
• Collaboration and stakeholder alignment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Why Join NiSource

• Contribute to critical infrastructure investments that power and connect communities
• Support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future
• Work on large, impactful capital projects across a diverse portfolio
• Collaborate with experienced professionals in a safety-first, values-driven organization

Success in This Role

• In the first 12 months, you will:
• Establish consistent estimating practices across assigned projects
• Improve estimate accuracy, transparency, and confidence levels
• Support successful regulatory and investment approvals
• Build and enhance cost benchmarking tools and data
• Strengthen collaboration across development, engineering, and construction teams

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at OneHR@nisource.com or 1-888-640-3320

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Workplace Connection

Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners. Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds. Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at OneHR@nisource.com or 1-888-640-3320

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

Salary Range

$113,500.00 - $170,300.00