What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at PHOENIX COMMUNICATIONS, INC?
The OSP Telecommunications Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive cost estimates and bid packages for outside plant construction projects. This role analyzes technical documentation, collaborates with internal teams, engages with subcontractors and vendors, and supports the full estimating lifecycle—from RFP review through project handoff.
Ideal Candidate
You are a data-oriented professional who understands the full scope of services required to deliver on fiber deployment projects. You are comfortable with consulting subject matter experts to fill your knowledge gaps and produce calculated cost estimates. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel in managing priorities and tight deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Construction / Bid Preparation
• Review RFPs, technical specifications, drawings, and addenda.
• Perform detailed takeoffs of materials, equipment, and labor.
• Identify scope gaps, clarifications, and project risks.
• Flag functions outside Phoenix’s capabilities for subcontractor/vendor coordination.
• Issue RFIs and attend pre-bid meetings/site walks.
• Produce preliminary schedules, Gantt charts, and logistics plans.
Cost Estimating
• Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Use historical costs, production rates, and SOVs to validate estimates.
• Produce Bills of Materials (BOMs) for material sourcing.
• Evaluate alternative materials and value-engineering opportunities.
• Apply contingency margins based on risk.
• Prepare bid summaries and scope sheets for approval.
Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination
• Solicit quotes from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Issue invitations to bid and track responses.
• Validate proposal compliance.
• Summarize proposals and recommend awards.
Internal Collaboration
• Support sales with pricing input.
• Collaborate with PM, engineering, and field teams.
• Work with purchasing for competitive material pricing.
• Coordinate with finance to ensure proper coding and budget structure.
Post-Bid / Handoff
• Prepare handoff package for operations.
• Assist PMs with final budgets and scheduling.
• Track bid results and update Salesforce.
Process Improvement & Data Management
• Maintain records of historical estimates, takeoffs, BOMs, schedules, etc.
• Ensure templates and tools are current.
• Compare project actuals to estimates for accuracy improvement.
• Identify workflow and software optimization opportunities.