What are the responsibilities and job description for the Solar Estimator position at W Talent?
We are working on behalf of a Northeastern solar developer who are seeking a detail-oriented and results-driven Estimator to support the preconstruction phase of renewable energy projects, including Solar and EV Charging. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop accurate cost estimates, budgets, and schedules for distributed generation (DG) projects ranging from 0.5 MW to 50 MW. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a passion for continuous improvement, and experience in solar EPC or similar industries.
Key Responsibilities
Development Estimating
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to determine interconnection requirements and associated costs for behind-the-meter (BTM) and front-of-the-meter (FTM) projects.
Partner with Development and Engineering teams to create preliminary design budgets for active and prospective projects.
EPC Estimating
Develop competitive, accurate, and timely cost estimates and schedules for DG-scale renewable energy projects, including rooftop, carport, and ground-mount solar installations, as well as EV charging infrastructure.
Review project specifications, scope of work, drawings, and RFP documents to ensure a comprehensive understanding of project requirements and potential risks.
Perform detailed project takeoffs by analyzing solar construction drawings.
Manage the subcontractor and vendor bidding process, including NDAs and RFP responses.
Provide value-engineering recommendations in collaboration with the Engineering team.
Analyze and normalize subcontractor and vendor proposals through detailed descoping processes.
Prepare and deliver complete RFP responses, including proposals, pricing breakdowns, and preliminary schedules.
Maintain databases of costs, subcontractors, vendors, and other critical data.
Pre-Construction Support
Develop project schedules in coordination with Project Management, Construction, and Engineering teams.
Assist in negotiating EPC contracts and pre-qualifying subcontractors and vendors.
Facilitate subcontractor selection, contract negotiation, and execution.
Oversee preconstruction processes such as pull testing coordination and submittal management using Procore.
Organize and co-lead preconstruction page-turn meetings with key stakeholders.
Process Improvement
Lead "Lessons Learned" reviews post-project to identify challenges and implement solutions for future improvements.
Utilize cost data from completed projects to refine and enhance future estimates.
Collect and incorporate feedback on subcontractor performance from the construction team into future evaluations.
Identify process inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions to enhance productivity.
Arrange ongoing learning sessions with subject matter experts for continuous team development.
Qualifications and Skills
Knowledge and Skills
Proficient in MS Office, with strong Excel skills (MS OneNote and Procore experience preferred).
Familiarity with Smartsheet and project management software is an advantage.
Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with attention to detail and critical thinking abilities.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills with a focus on results and continuous improvement.
Solid mathematical aptitude and analytical capabilities.
Self-motivated with a passion for professional growth and learning.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Education and Experience
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a solar EPC environment.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Construction Management, Energy Systems, Environmental Sciences, Data Analytics, or a related field preferred.
Experience in subcontractor tendering and evaluation is required.
Familiarity with electrical design components and engineering is a strong plus.
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