Solar Construction Estimator (Hybrid)

Responsibilities

• EstimatorTakeoffs & Estimating: Perform detailed material, labor, and equipment takeoffs from preliminary design drawings, structural plans, and electrical single-line diagrams.
• Proposal Development: Prepare detailed line-item cost estimates, budget proposals, and final bid packages for RFPs (Requests for Proposals).
• Vendor & Subcontractor Management: Solicit, review, and negotiate quotes from equipment manufacturers (modules, inverters, racking) and subcontractors (civil, electrical, mechanical).
• Site Assessments: Evaluate site conditions, geographic challenges, and utility interconnection requirements to anticipate potential cost impacts.
• Risk Analysis: Identify financial and operational risks within project scopes and develop mitigation strategies or contingency buffers.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, and Business Development teams to refine project scopes and ensure smooth handoffs to the construction team.
• Database Maintenance: Maintain and update a historical cost database to improve the speed and accuracy of future estimates.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil/Electrical Engineering, Sustainability, or a related field (equivalent field experience will be considered).
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of estimating experience in utility-scale or C&I solar construction.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets and energy design & proposal software (EnergyToolbase, Helioscope, PVsyst, Solesca, Aurora, etc.).
• Solar Expertise: Deep understanding of solar PV technology, racking systems (rooftop, ground mount, carport), inverters, and battery storage (BESS) components.
• Analytical Mindset: Exceptional mathematical skills and a sharp eye for identifying discrepancies in blueprints or scope documents.
• Communication: Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills to build relationships with vendors and present bids to executives or clients.

Preferred Qualifications

• NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification.
• Experience with medium or high-voltage substation or utility interconnection estimating.
• Knowledge of local labor markets, prevailing wage laws, and union requirements.
• High level of comfort and experience using Microsoft Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Word, etc.).
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Pay

Pay Range: $80,000 - 140,000 (commensurate with experience)

Benefits

Major health benefits, 7 paid holidays, and accrued PTO

Location

1326 Greenleaf Ave, Evanston, IL 60202