Senior HV​/BESS Estimation Manager

Title
:
Senior HV / BESS Estimation Manager

Department
:
Estimation/Preconstruction

Location
:
Houston, TX (Remote based out of home office)

Senior HV/BESS Estimation Manager will lead a team of estimators and work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to accurately estimate costs and resources required for utility‑scale solar and BESS projects. Responsibilities include preparing firm bid, submittal documents and cost estimates for high‑voltage substations and BESS, conducting take‑offs, risk identification, engineering optimization, and increasing margins through identifying cost efficiencies.

The role reports to the Senior Director of Estimation and requires travel up to 25%.

• Lead a team of estimators, providing guidance, support, and mentorship.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand project requirements and deadlines.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the estimation process.
• Conduct regular meetings with the estimation team to review progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
• Develop and manage cost models.
• Use computer estimating software to create and compile estimates.
• Develop assemblies in estimating software.

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for utility‑scale solar projects related to HV substation and BESS, covering materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documents to determine scope and requirements.
• Utilize historical data, industry benchmarks, and market trends to ensure realistic and competitive estimates.
• Review and validate subcontractor bids and quotations.

• Collaborate with project managers to develop resource plans based on estimated costs and project schedules.
• Identify and quantify resource requirements, including manpower, equipment, and materials.
• Optimize resource allocation to maximize efficiency and minimize risks.
• Develop labor productivity and installation unit costs based on projected site conditions and historical data.

• Identify potential risks and uncertainties associated with project estimates.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
• Conduct sensitivity analysis to assess impact of various factors on costs and profitability.

• Prepare comprehensive bid proposals for RFPs and ITBs.
• Ensure proposals are accurate, competitive, and aligned with project requirements and company objectives.
• Collaborate with business development and sales teams to develop pricing strategies and negotiate contracts.
• Participate in bid review meetings.

• Maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors for competitive pricing and timely delivery.
• Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate pricing agreements to improve profitability.

• Review project estimates for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with standards.
• Implement quality assurance processes to validate estimates and identify improvement areas.
• Maintain understanding of EPC contracting, electrical theory, environmental, geotechnical, and hydrological reports.
• Keep up‑to‑date on local building codes.
• Create and maintain project directives.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 25%.
• Meet attendance policy and supervisory assignments.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree or technical certificate, with at least 8 years of estimating and project management experience, including 3+ years in utility‑scale solar, HV, and BESS projects.
• Background in commercial construction, electrical equipment supply, or power plant engineering.
• Strong understanding of utility solar and battery storage installation best practices.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, computer fluency, and negotiation ability.
• Experience in construction‑related estimation, especially solar PV and BESS projects.
• Proficiency in cost estimation software such as HCSS Heavy Bid, Smartsheet, Procore.
• Self‑motivated, organized, and detail oriented.
• Assertive, able…