Solar Estimator

Qcells EPC · Houston, TX · 2 wk ago

RemoteRemoteManagementFull-time

Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates for utility-scale solar projects, 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.
Generate and manage project budgets through project award.
Develop and manage cost models.
Use computer estimating software to create and compile estimates.
Create and compile assemblies in estimating software.
Review and redline project design drawings.
Understand self-perform best practices and means and methods to build project cost estimates from scratch.
Understand job costing methodologies for use in the creation of WBS coded estimates.

Analyze and interpret project development documents such as geotechnical reports, pile load tests, hydrology reports, ALTA and topography documents, environmental, cultural, and biological reports.
Perform site evaluations and reports to inform project cost.
Identify local resources such as water sources, rock quarries, and local suppliers.

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 where applicable) based on projected site conditions and historical data;
Identify local prevailing wage and labor requirements.
Identify local and/or state labor ratio requirements.

Identify potential risks and uncertainties associated with project estimates.
Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address identified risks.
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.
Participate in bid review meetings.
Create subcontractors scopes of work.
Vendor and Supplier Management
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.
Engage with new local contractors for potential use on the project.

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.

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 relevant experience in estimating and project management, with at least 3 years of experience in utility-scale solar projects. (Construction, energy industry preferred);
Experience in similar industries directly related to electrical will be considered.
A general understanding of current PV equipment (Tracker, inverter) and impacts of each system;
Keep up-to-date on local building codes;
Create and maintain project directives;
Regular attendance, in accordance with company's attendance policy and supervisory assignment, is an essential job duty requirement for this position;
Perform other duties and special projects, as assigned by Management

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