HV​/BESS Estimator

Overview

Description:

HV/BESS Estimator position in the Estimation department.

Location:

Ankeny, IA. Work status:
Hybrid.

Schedule:

Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm or 9:00am–6:00pm local time. Travel: up to 25% as needed.

Reports to:

Senior HV/BESS Estimating Manager. FLSA Status:
Exempt. Position Status:
Permanent;
Full-time. Supervisors and related roles noted within the description.

Hanwha Qcells USA Corp (Qcells

USA) specializes in utility-scale modules, solar PV, and BESS project development, including EPC services. Our turnkey solutions integrate Module, Development, and EPC teams with internal groups such as Project Finance, Systems Integration, and Legal to deliver value and performance.

Qcells

USA benefits from a global brand and leadership in photovoltaic manufacturing, with a legacy of high-performance solar cells and modules. The company operates under Hanwha Group with dual headquarters in Seoul and Thalheim, Germany.

• Leadership and Management
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to understand project requirements and deadlines.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve estimation process efficiency and accuracy.
• Cost Modeling and Estimation Tools
• Develop and manage cost models; use computer estimating software to create and compile estimates; develop assemblies in estimating software.
• Cost Estimation
• Oversee the preparation of detailed cost estimates for utility-scale solar projects, especially HV Substations and BESS, including materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and documents to determine scope and requirements; use historical data, benchmarks, and market trends to keep estimates realistic and competitive.
• Review and validate subcontractor bids and quotations.
• Resource Planning
• Collaborate with project managers to develop resource plans based on estimates and project schedules; identify and quantify resource requirements; optimize resource allocation to minimize risks.
• Develop labor productivity and installation unit costs based on site conditions and historical data.
• Risk Management
• Identify risks and uncertainties in project estimates; develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans; conduct sensitivity analyses on costs and profitability.
• Bid Preparation
• Prepare comprehensive bid proposals in response to RFPs/ITBs; ensure accuracy, competitiveness, and alignment with project requirements; collaborate with business development and sales to develop pricing strategies and negotiate contracts.
• Participate in bid review meetings.
• Vendor and Supplier Management
• Maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure competitive pricing and timely delivery; evaluate performance and negotiate pricing for profitability.
• Quality Assurance
• Review estimates for accuracy and compliance with standards; implement QA processes to validate estimates.
• General Requirements
• Understand EPC contracting and electrical theory; awareness of environmental, geotechnical, and hydrological reports; general understanding of current HV and BESS equipment and impacts; keep up-to-date on local building codes; create and maintain project directives; ability to travel 25%.
• Note:
  
  Travel up to 25% as needed. The duties described are a general guide and may evolve with the business needs.

• Bachelor’s Degree and/or relevant certificate; no degree considered if relevant experience exceeds 3 years.
• 3+ years relevant experience in estimating and project management, with at least 3 years in utility-scale solar, HV, and BESS projects (construction/energy background preferred).
• Background in commercial construction, electrical equipment supply, and/or power plant engineering.
• Strong understanding of utility solar and battery storage installation and best practices.
• Able to travel domestically and internationally up to 25%.
• Strong oral and written communication skills; proficiency with computers; effective negotiation and clear explanations.
• Experience in construction-related estimation for solar PV and BESS projects preferred.
• Proficiency with cost estimation software (e.g., HCSS Heavy Bid…