Transmission & Distribution Estimator

MissionHires is seeking a Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Estimator to develop accurate, bottom-up construction cost estimates for overhead and underground power delivery projects. The role requires strong plan-reading ability, proficiency in estimating software (e.g., B2W, HeavyBid), clear communication with Directors and cross-functional teams, and the discipline to track estimates versus actuals to continuously improve accuracy. Senior candidates will also lead large proposals, mentor junior estimators, standardize estimating practices, and review others’ work to identify cost risks.

• Develop detailed bottom-up estimates for T&D construction (overhead and/or underground) using tools such as B2W or HeavyBid
• Interpret and quantify scope from engineering drawings, specifications, and bid documents
• Prepare structured cost breakdowns, unit rates, productivity assumptions, and indirects/contingencies
• Coordinate with engineering, project management, procurement, and field teams to validate means, methods, and pricing
• Present estimate assumptions, risks, and value drivers clearly to Directors and cross-functional stakeholders
• Manage multiple bids under tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy and version control
• Track estimates versus actuals; capture lessons learned and update assemblies, crews, and production rates
• Support proposal development, including schedules, cash flows, and clarifications/exclusions
• Identify cost risks and opportunities; recommend value engineering options
• Maintain organized estimate files, historical cost data, and standard templates
• Senior: Lead multimillion-dollar proposals and estimate reviews; own pursuit strategy inputs and governance gates
• Senior: Mentor junior estimators; standardize practices, assemblies, and checklists across the team
• Senior: Perform peer reviews and risk checks on others’ estimates; escalate material variances and gaps

• Several years of hands-on estimating experience in electrical transmission and/or distribution construction (overhead and/or underground)
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, one-lines, profiles, details, and specifications
• Proficiency with construction estimating software (e.g., B2W, HeavyBid) and strong Excel skills
• Demonstrated capability to build detailed bottom-up estimates including labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, indirects, and contingencies
• Proven experience working under tight bid deadlines and managing multiple concurrent pursuits
• Strong communication skills to present cost data, assumptions, and risks to leadership and cross-functional teams
• Discipline in tracking estimates against actual costs and implementing continuous improvements
• Background in engineering, business, or a technical field (education or equivalent experience)
• Familiarity with T&D construction means and methods, crew makeups, production rates, and unit pricing
• Understanding of procurement and subcontractor quoting processes
• Senior: Track record leading and winning multimillion-dollar proposals
• Senior: Experience mentoring junior estimators and enforcing estimating standards and QA/QC reviews