Estimating Manager

The Estimating Manager leads the estimating team and oversees the preparation of accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and data center construction projects, including structured copper and fiber cabling, data center infrastructure, and related low voltage systems. This role manages the bid pipeline and team workload, reviews and approves estimates before submission, maintains estimating standards and pricing data, and develops the skills of the estimating staff.

The Estimating Manager also personally estimates large or complex projects and partners with sales and operations to win the right work and set projects up for success.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise, train, and mentor Estimators, including assigning work, setting priorities, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews.
• Manage the bid calendar and assign opportunities based on project type, complexity, and estimator capacity to ensure all deadlines are met.
• Review estimates and proposals for accuracy, completeness, scope, pricing, and risk before submission.
• Approve bids within established authority and review bids above the set threshold with the Vice President of Estimating.
• Prepare estimates and proposals for large, complex, or strategic projects.
• Participate in go/no-go bid decisions with the Vice President of Estimating and sales leadership.
• Develop, document, and maintain standardized estimating procedures, templates, labor units, and pricing databases.
• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers, distributors, and subcontractors, and negotiate favorable pricing and terms.
• Oversee the RFI process and ensure consistent client follow-up on pending proposals.
• Review contract documents, terms, and conditions for scope, risk, and exclusions, and escalate concerns as appropriate.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, and operations on scope clarification, value engineering, and project turnover after award.
• Lead or attend project kick-off meetings to ensure the estimate, scope, and assumptions are clearly communicated to operations.
• Analyze bid results, win rates, and estimated-versus-actual job costs, and use the findings to improve estimate accuracy.
• Track and report estimating metrics such as bid volume, win rate, turnaround time, and backlog to the Vice President of Estimating.
• Evaluate and recommend estimating software, tools, and process improvements.

• Expert knowledge of estimating ICT and data center infrastructure, including structured copper and fiber cabling, pathways, racks and cabinets, and grounding and bonding.
• Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically Excel, Word, MS Project, and Teams.
• Advanced proficiency with Bluebeam or similar take-off software and estimating software.
• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Smartsheet).
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Strong understanding of labor productivity, material pricing, markup, and margin analysis.
• Knowledge of gas, water, electric, civil, and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) work is helpful when applicable.
• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers and subcontractors.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presenting bids to internal leadership and clients.

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, business, engineering, or a related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience.
• Minimum of seven (7) years' estimating experience in the ICT and/or data center industry, including at least two (2) years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) certification (e.g., RCDD) preferred.
• Experience with security, audio/visual, or fire alarm systems is a plus.
• Proven track record of preparing and winning ICT and/or data center bids of significant size and complexity.

Typical standard office environment conditions; sitting, standing, walking, and minimal lifting. The employee may occasionally have to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop,…