What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator - Data Center position at Black Box Careers?
The Estimator – Data Center Operations supports the preparation, analysis, and development of project cost estimates for data center infrastructure projects. This role is ideal for detail-oriented professionals with a technical mindset who want to grow within data center construction, structured cabling, and mission-critical operations.
The Estimator will work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and vendors to ensure accurate and competitive estimates that support successful project delivery and profitability.
Position Details:
- Exempt Salaried position based upon experience; weekly salary broken down hourly for invoicing purposes only.
- Contract with possible contract extension or hire
- Standard work hours: Must be flexible, varies upon project demands
- Location: Remote - near Plano, TX
- Travel - up to 15% (mainly to Plano HQ)
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in preparing cost estimates, bills of materials (BOMs), and labor projections for data center construction and infrastructure projects.
- Interpret blueprints, specifications, and scope documents to determine project requirements.
- Collaborate with project engineers, field operations, and procurement to validate material quantities, labor rates, and vendor quotes.
- Perform take-offs for structured cabling, electrical, and mechanical systems related to data centers.
- Support bid preparation and submission for RFPs and client proposals.
- Update and maintain historical cost data, unit pricing, and vendor rate databases.
- Assist with change order analysis, validating scope adjustments and cost impacts.
- Ensure all estimates comply with company standards, safety requirements, and client expectations.
- Participate in site visits and pre-bid meetings to gather technical and logistical details.
- Contribute to process improvements that increase estimating accuracy and efficiency.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience: 3-5 years in estimating, project coordination, or data center construction (internships or field experience acceptable).
- Knowledge of Division 27 construction specifications in ISP environments
- Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, or cabling systems used in mission-critical facilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Bluebeam, and estimating software (e.g., Trimble, Accubid, or PlanSwift).
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
- Strong numerical accuracy, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with BICSI standards, data center design concepts, or structured cabling.
- Exposure to vendor bid comparisons, RFP processes, or cost control systems.
- Basic knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, or construction scheduling software.
- Experience working in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and multiple stakeholders.
Key Competencies
- Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills.
- Eagerness to learn and advance within the estimating and project management career path.
- Collaborative and dependable team contributor.
- Resilient and adaptable to changing priorities in a high-volume environment.
Career Path: This position serves as an entry point into Data Center Project Estimating and Operations Management, with growth potential toward roles such as Estimator, Senior Estimator, or Project Engineer.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature of the responsibilities and duties executed by this position. Other responsibilities and duties may be assigned as reasonably needed or required.
About Us:
Black Box Network Services is a leading technology solutions provider dedicated to helping customers design, deploy and manage their IT infrastructure. We deliver high-value products and services through our global presence and 3,000 team members.
What’s in it for You at Black Box Network Services?
Black Box provides challenging work that creates advancement opportunities within the organization for those demonstrating desire and aptitude through their achievements. We have no shortage of opportunities. If you are looking for a business that allows for individual reward and growth, we are the place for you!
Black Box does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status, and endorses those policies and practices which seek to recruit, hire, train and promote the most qualified persons into available jobs.
Visit blackbox.com to learn more.