Estimator I
The Estimator I supports electrical construction projects by performing detailed quantity takeoffs and assisting in building accurate cost estimates, primarily for small to medium projects. This role involves close collaboration with senior estimators to learn installation methods, develop pricing, and contribute to bid preparation while gaining exposure to field operations and jobsite conditions. The position requires strong attention to detail, proficiency with estimating tools, and effective communication with internal teams and vendors.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Trade & Construction.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
The Estimator I supports the estimating team by performing quantity takeoffs and assisting with cost estimates for electrical construction projects. This is an entry-level estimating role focused on learning installation methods, labor build-up, and translating scopes into competitive pricing.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for conduit, wire, devices, fixtures, equipment and related systems using plans and specifications
- Build bills of material and maintain material lists for vendor pricing requests
- Use Bluebeam, LiveCount or similar tools for digital takeoffs and markups
- Provide bill(s) of material to vendors and solicit basic subcontractor quotes (e.g., trenching, core drilling, low-voltage support)
- Assist in developing basic labor estimates using standard labor units and historical data
- Support bid day activities by updating pricing, organizing bid documents, and preparing scope summaries
- Maintain cost databases, vendor contacts, and historical pricing information
- Participate in jobsite visits to observe installation methods and verify quantities
- Assist senior estimators with proposals, scope reviews and bid coordination
- Look for process improvements and document lessons learned
Qualifications
- Foundational knowledge of electrical construction (power distribution, lighting, low-voltage/data)
- Developing ability to read electrical drawings, panel schedules and basic one-line diagrams
- Strong attention to detail for accurate quantity takeoffs
- Basic understanding of electrical materials, installation methods and how field install affects labor/cost
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for material tracking and simple cost calculations
- Working knowledge of estimating/takeoff software (Accubid preferred) and Bluebeam/LiveCount
- Strong written and verbal communication; ability to coordinate with estimators, PMs, technicians, vendors and subs
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
- Willingness to learn field operations, including service work and commercial installations
- Ability to follow jobsite safety requirements and wear required PPE on site visits
Work Environment & Schedule
- Full-time, exempt position with a standard Monday–Friday schedule (8–10 hour days typical); flexibility required for bid deadlines and high-priority requests
- Occasional early mornings, evenings, weekends or extended hours to support critical bids or service needs
- Local travel for pre-bid walkthroughs, jobsite visits and coordination meetings
- Combination of office-based estimating work (prolonged computer use) and periodic jobsite exposure (walking sites, climbing stairs/ladders, PPE required)
- This role reports to Estimator II / Senior Estimators / Chief Estimator and has no direct supervisory responsibilities
- Reasonable accommodations available in accordance with the ADA
Education & Experience
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field preferred — OR equivalent combination of education, military training, and hands-on electrical construction or service experience
- ~3 years of experience in electrical construction, service operations, estimating support or related construction environment preferred
- Trade school, apprenticeship, or relevant internships/apprenticeships are a plus
- Valid driver’s license required for jobsite visits
Compensation
- Estimated: $86,489 per year (estimate shown on source posting). Compensation may vary based on experience, qualifications, and local market conditions.
Why This Role
- Hands-on entry to electrical construction estimating with mentorship from senior estimators
- Opportunity to develop takeoff, pricing and proposal skills using industry tools like Accubid and Bluebeam
- Regular exposure to jobsite methods to connect field constructability to cost models
- Supportive team environment focused on safety, continuous learning, and accountability
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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