Senior Automation Estimator - Critical Infrastructure

Job Summary

The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure is the owner of automation estimating discipline for mission critical hyperscale and colocation data-center projects from 10 MW to 200 MW and budgets of $10M – $150 M+ per campus. You will lead the full proposal life-cycle—reviewing RFPs, analyzing scope, building detailed cost models, and crafting winning strategies that balance speed-to-market with Tier III/IV reliability.

Essential Functions

• Estimating Leadership (50%)

• Dissect RFPs, drawings, and specifications for BAS, PLC, DDC, SCADA, EPMS, DCIM, and OT network scope
• Produce labor & material take-offs, apply regional labor indices, and build bottoms-up cost models
• Drive value-engineering options that maintain Uptime Tier targets while reducing capex/OPEX

• Process and Tool Ownership (20%)

• Implement new estimating tool stack supporting greater speed and accuracy for larger complex projects
• Implement new Bid management tools for qualifying trade partners and soliciting sub pricing
• Build and Manage budgeting database supporting quick evaluations, improving speed of response to RFPs
• Develop Power BI dashboards or similar for margin and accuracy tracking
• Pilot AI-assisted workflows and tools to automate and streamline estimating phase efforts
• Continuously evaluate and improve preconstruction processes and tools to improve speed, accuracy and efficiency

• Vendor and Subcontractor Management (10%)

• Issue RFQs, analyze bids, and negotiate T&Cs for control panel shops, material vendors and subcontractors
• Maintain OEM and vendor pricing lists and agreements and negotiate pricing

• Client Engagement (10%)

• Lead estimate review calls with hyperscale owner teams; defend cost drivers, productivity factors, and contingency rationale
• Support Business Development teams by building relationships with clients and contractor Preconstruction teams, and converting conceptual budgets into executable contracts through budgeting exercises and formal RFP iterations.

• Mentoring and Reporting (10%)

• Cultivate preferred pricing with vendors, hardware / software channel partners and key subcontractors, mentor and train junior estimators, enforce data-quality standards, and publish KPI reports for leadership teams

Requirements

• Technical Depth: Working knowledge of PLC platforms (Rockwell ControlLogix, Schneider M580), DDC hardware (Distech, Honeywell), SCADA/Historian software (Ignition, AVEVA, Tridium Niagara4), and mechanical and electrical integration

• Software: Bid Management platforms (e.g. Building Connected, Procore); Bluebeam Revu, and Power BI for reporting and KPI analysis.

• Standards & Codes: Familiarity with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, ISA 88/95, ISA/IEC 62443, Uptime Institute Tier Guidelines.

• Soft Skills: Persuasive communicator, strong commercial acumen, decisive under tight proposal deadlines.

• Certifications (preferred): ASPE CPE, AACE International CCP, PMI PMP, LEED GA.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex project requirements and develop accurate estimates

• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, Sharepoint), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management

• Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and persuasively

• Strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and completeness in all aspects of the estimating process

• Strong negotiation skills, particularly in dealing with vendors and subcontractors

• Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation

• Ability to analyze market trends and apply cost data effectively

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, vendors, partners, and internal teams

• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace

• Ability to identify and analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions

• Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence

• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)

• Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with little supervision

• Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others

• Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Physical Demands

• Frequent manipulation, movement or grasping small parts, devices or tools
• Frequent requirement to remain in a stationary position
• Frequent movement through office, critical facility and other environments (such as low temperatures, high temperatures and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind), including tight and confined spaces
• Frequent descending / ascending stairs and ladders to access equipment
• Occasionally positioning self under or over equipment
• Occasionally moving equipment weighing up to 50 pounds

Travel Requirements

• Up to 10%, this may include travel to any or all 50 US states

Education / Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, business, or related discipline
• Minimum of 8 years’ estimating experience for systems integrator in industrial automation or mission critical industry
• Demonstrated Success: Lead estimator on at least five mission-critical projects ≥40 MW awarded to your company