What are the responsibilities and job description for the Electrical Estimator position at Purple Squirrel Advisors?
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Industrial Electrical Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates for industrial electrical projects, including manufacturing facilities, processing plants, utilities, infrastructure upgrades, controls integration, and power distribution systems.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Estimating & Preconstruction
- Prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for industrial electrical projects ranging from service work to large-scale industrial construction.
- Analyze blueprints, specifications, bid documents, one-lines, control schematics, and scope requirements.
- Perform quantity takeoffs for:
- Power distribution systems
- Motor controls
- Process equipment
- Instrumentation
- Lighting systems
- Underground utilities
- Industrial automation systems
- Develop labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and contingency pricing.
- Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
- Identify scope gaps, risks, value engineering opportunities, and constructability concerns.
- Build detailed proposals and bid packages aligned with customer expectations and company standards.
- Participate in bid reviews and estimate presentations with leadership.
Industrial Project Development
- Support turnkey industrial solutions, including:
- Design-build projects
- Power distribution upgrades
- Facility expansions
- Controls integration
- Shutdown and outage planning
- Preventive infrastructure improvements
- Assist in project planning, budgeting, forecasting, and scheduling during preconstruction phases.
- Coordinate with field teams to ensure estimates reflect real-world installation methods and labor productivity.
- Contribute to strategic growth initiatives within the industrial division.
Client & Vendor Relationships
- Build and maintain strong relationships with:
- Industrial clients
- Engineers
- General contractors
- Vendors
- Manufacturers
- Strategic subcontractors
- Attend site walks, pre-bid meetings, and customer planning sessions.
- Support the company’s reputation for honesty, responsiveness, and partnership-driven service.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all estimates reflect OSHA standards, NFPA requirements, NEC compliance, follow customer site safety, and company safety expectations.
- Incorporate safe work practices, shutdown coordination, and industrial safety planning into project proposals.
- Promote Douglas Electric’s culture of safety and accountability throughout the estimating process.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Required
- 5 years of electrical estimating experience with a strong emphasis on industrial projects.
- Strong understanding of:
- Industrial electrical systems
- Motor controls
- Power distribution
- Process equipment
- PLC and automation systems
- NEC and industrial code requirements
- Ability to read and interpret complex industrial drawings and specifications.
- Experience with design-build industrial projects
- Experience using estimating software platforms (Accubid primary platform) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to attend jobsite visits.
Preferred
- Field electrical experience or journeyman background.
- Knowledge of industrial manufacturing environments.
- Familiarity with Bluebeam, ConEst, or similar estimating platforms.
- Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and project turnover processes.