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Substation Project Estimator

Location **Amarillo**

Secondary Locations

Job Code **18786**

\# of openings **1**

Substation Project Estimator

Job Summary

POWER Engineers, Member of WSP's Power Delivery Business Unit, Minneapolis Substation Department, is seeking a Project Estimator to join our Estimating Team in Amarillo, TX.

The Project Estimator will be responsible for developing accurate, detailed cost estimates for substation projects from early scoping through project completion. Working under the guidance of the Lead Estimator, this role will collaborate closely with engineering, construction, procurement, and project management teams to ensure estimates reflect the latest design requirements, market conditions, and organizational standards.

This position is ideal for detail-oriented professionals with strong analytical skills and a passion for cost modeling and project planning. The Project Estimator will play a critical role in controlling costs, identifying risks, and ensuring the successful execution of SPS substation projects.

Responsibilities

Estimation Responsibilities

+ Prepare accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for substation projects at scoping, appropriation, and engineering stages

+ Break down project scope into quantifiable elements (labor, materials, subcontracted services, equipment, and indirect costs)

+ Apply standardized bid units, productivity factors, and cost assemblies when preparing estimates

+ Validate cost assumptions by reviewing drawings, technical specifications, and project requirements

+ Maintain accuracy standards (+/- 20% at scoping/appropriation, +/- 10% at engineering)

+ Document estimate assumptions, scope inclusions/exclusions, and key cost drivers

+ Support the Lead Estimator in finalizing and reviewing estimates before submission

Collaboration & Data Gathering

+ Coordinate with Engineering, Construction, Procurement, and Project Management teams to collect and validate cost data

+ Engage with functional departments (e.g., commissioning, site security, surveys, trucking, siting/land rights) to capture accurate resource requirements

+ Work with contractors and suppliers to incorporate competitive pricing and market-based cost inputs

+ Participate in project review meetings to explain estimate details, assumptions, and variances

Continuous Improvement & Process Support

+ Maintain up-to-date estimating databases with current labor rates, material prices, and bid unit costs

+ Leverage historical project data and benchmarking to improve estimate accuracy

+ Assist in testing and implementing improved estimation tools, templates, and methodologies (e.g., InEight, Assembly Manager, BI dashboards)

+ Contribute to lessons learned by comparing estimate outcomes against actual project costs

+ Support the development of standardized estimating practices across the department

Required Education/Experience

+ Bachelor's degree in Construction, Construction Management, Engineering, Project Management, or a related field

+ 3+ years relevant project management and pre-construction experience in the construction industry, including public infrastructure, energy, food & beverage, industrial, and/or federal market sectors

+ Experience utilizing cost estimating software

+ Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

+ Exceptional analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a high level of attention to detail

+ Ability to handle large volumes of work and multitask in a fast-paced environment

+ The ideal candidate will be a self-starter, work independently, be organized, and travel as necessary

+ Strong command of the English language with good written and oral communication skills for collaborating with both technical and non-technical teams

Desired Education/Experience

+ Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Civil, or Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related technical discipline

+ Master’s degree in Engineering Management, Construction, or Business is a plus

+ Coursework or training in cost estimating, project management, or construction economics desirable

+ 3–5 years of experience in project estimating, cost engineering, or project controls, preferably in the utility, power delivery, or infrastructure sector

+ Direct experience preparing detailed cost estimates for substation or transmission projects

+ Hands-on experience with estimating software (InEight, RSMeans, Sage Estimating, or equivalent)

+ Familiarity with labor, material, and subcontractor cost databases

+ Strong Excel and analytical modeling skills; experience with cost reporting tools is an advantage

+ Exposure to reading and interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and bid documents

+ Experience coordinating with engineering, procurement, and construction teams during the estimating process

+ Understanding of risk identification, contingency planning, and cost accuracy standards (+/- 20% scoping, +/- 10% engineering)

+ AACE International – Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) or Certified Cost Professional (CCP)

+ Certified Professional Estimator (CPE)

+ Project Management Professional (PMP) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) designation

POWER Engineers, Member of WSP, is a global consulting environmental and engineering firm and one of the top design firms in the energy sector. Together, POWER and WSP’s 73,900 experts create positive, long-lasting impacts for our communities and our clients in the power and energy, transportation and infrastructure, environmental, and property and buildings sectors. As part of our team, you’ll discover a world of opportunities to connect with innovative thinkers, forge your path, and have fun tackling the world’s most challenging projects.

At POWER Engineers, Member of WSP, you can have a rewarding career on every level. Our philosophy is simple: Do Good. Have Fun. Build Success.

Our compensation package includes competitive compensation, professional development, and a full benefit package:

+ Medical/Dental/Vision

+ Paid Holidays

+ Vacation/Paid Sick Leave

+ Voluntary Life Insurance

+ 401K

+ Telehealth Benefit covers all providers

+ Maternity and Paternity Leave

+ New Dads and Moms Benefit program

+ Fertility Benefits

+ Gender affirming care

We are a fun engineering firm. That might seem contradictory to some, but it works for us!

Salary DOE

POWER Engineers, Member of WSP, is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities

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