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Lead Project Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Specific Description We are seeking a high-impact Lead Project Estimator to play a critical role in driving estimating excellence across a diverse portfolio of energy and infrastructure ...

Lead a team of estimators on more complicated project procurements. * Facilitate estimate reviews on projects for executive management. * Facilitate the communication of estimate scope and pricing to ...

Project Estimator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$92K - $102K/yr

Lead a team of estimators on more complicated project procurements. * Facilitate estimate reviews on projects for executive management. * Facilitate the communication of estimate scope and pricing to ...

Lead a team of estimators on more complicated project procurements. * Facilitate estimate reviews on projects for executive management. * Facilitate the communication of estimate scope and pricing to ...

Lead preparation of Class 5 through Class 1 cost estimates for high-voltage transmission projects * Develop detailed cost models for overhead transmission lines (115kV+), including steel poles ...

Project Estimator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Project Estimator Job Number: 25-05194 Our client, a premiere Charlotte based Contractor, is ... Engage construction department during bid process for information regarding schedule, lead times ...

Project Estimator

Matthews, NC · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Project Estimator Job Number: 25-05194 Our client, a premiere Charlotte based Contractor, is ... Engage construction department during bid process for information regarding schedule, lead times ...

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Lead Project Estimator information

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$48.5K

$114K

$180.5K

How much do lead project estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead project estimator in the United States is $113,978.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Project Estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Project Estimator, you need expertise in cost estimation, project management, and a strong understanding of construction or engineering principles, often backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with estimation software such as Bluebeam, ProEst, or Sage Estimating, along with certifications like AACE or ASPE, is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills that set top candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate project budgeting, minimize risk, and enable seamless collaboration with stakeholders, which are crucial for project success.

What are the most common challenges Lead Project Estimators face when managing large-scale projects?

Lead Project Estimators often encounter challenges such as coordinating inputs from multiple stakeholders, managing tight deadlines, and adapting to changes in project scope. They must ensure that all cost factors are accurately accounted for while collaborating closely with engineering, procurement, and construction teams. Staying up-to-date with industry pricing trends and maintaining clear communication throughout the estimation process are also critical to producing reliable and competitive bids.

What does a Lead Project Estimator do?

A Lead Project Estimator is responsible for analyzing project plans, specifications, and requirements to determine the overall costs and resources needed for construction or engineering projects. They gather and evaluate data on all necessary materials, labor, and equipment, and prepare detailed cost estimates and bid proposals. Additionally, they may coordinate with engineers, architects, and project managers to ensure estimates are accurate and align with project goals. Their expertise helps organizations budget effectively and make informed decisions on project feasibility.

What is the difference between Lead Project Estimator vs Project Estimator?

AspectLead Project EstimatorProject Estimator
CredentialsTypically requires experience in estimating, certifications like CPC or RICS beneficialRequires estimating experience, certifications optional but preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads estimation teams, collaborates with project managers, involved in bid strategyPrepares cost estimates, supports project teams, focuses on individual tasks
Industry UsageUsed in construction, engineering, and large-scale projectsCommon across similar industries, often entry to mid-level role

The Lead Project Estimator oversees the estimating process, manages teams, and influences bid strategies, while the Project Estimator focuses on preparing detailed cost estimates. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic responsibilities, whereas the project estimator concentrates on technical accuracy and data collection.

More about Lead Project Estimator jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Project Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Lead Project Estimator job openings:
Infographic showing various Lead Project Estimator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,978 per year, or $54.8 per hour.
Lead Project Estimator

Other

Posted 6 days ago


NextEra Energy rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID:  95256 

NextEra Energy Resources is one of America's largest wholesale electricity generators, harnessing diverse energy sources to power progress. We deliver tailored energy solutions that fuel economic growth, strengthen communities, and help customers achieve their energy goals. Ready to make a lasting impact? Take the next step in your career with us!

Position Specific Description

We are seeking a high-impact Lead Project Estimator to play a critical role in driving estimating excellence across a diverse portfolio of energy and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will lead the development and execution of capital cost estimates-from early-stage concept through detailed design-ensuring accuracy, insight, and alignment with business objectives and market conditions. You will work closely with engineering, project development, and leadership teams to evaluate design alternatives, challenge assumptions, and drive better outcomes through data-driven analysis and value engineering. As a key contributor to estimate quality, you will help advance our tools, processes, and methodologies to improve speed, precision, and decision-making at scale.


We are builders, competitors, and learners-people who take pride in doing hard things well-and we are looking for you to join us. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and relentlessly effective, with the ability to manage complexity and deliver in a fast-paced environment. You bring strong technical skills, intellectual curiosity, and the drive to continuously improve yourself and those around you. You are a collaborative team player and emerging leader who communicates clearly, builds trust, and influences outcomes-balancing creativity with discipline and precision. You thrive on accountability, enjoy solving problems without clear answers, and bring a competitive edge that pushes for better results every time. If you are motivated by high standards, meaningful impact, and the opportunity to grow into a leadership role while doing work that truly matters, you will fit right in.

Job Overview

This position develops, quantifies, costs, and provides a complete capital expenditure (CapEx) model for evaluating projects. Employees in this role provide technical guidance, estimating knowledge, market pricing, and staffing considerations during the estimating process.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

   Prepares capital cost estimates
   Reviews designs and specifications for cost effectiveness and suggests alternatives, when appropriate
   Coordinates with other departments, ensuring understanding of project objectives and efficient utilization of resources
   Reviews layouts, designs and specifications for cost effectiveness and suggests alternatives, when appropriate
   Remains current with technology and industry evolution, assuring that capital estimates anticipate the correct market conditions
   Establishes, builds and implements metrics for cost and construction estimate checks
   Performs other job-related duties as assigned
Required Qualifications

  Bachelor's or Equivalent Experience
  Experience: 6+ years
Preferred Qualifications

  None

NextEra Energy offers a wide range of benefits to support our employees and their eligible family members. Click here to learn more.

Employee Group:  Exempt
Employee Type:  Full Time
Job Category:  Finance, Accounting & Business Analytics
Organization:  NextEra Energy Project Management, LLC 
Relocation Provided:  Yes, if applicable

NextEra Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, age, national origin, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetics, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by law. 

NextEra Energy provides reasonable accommodation in its application and selection process for qualified individuals, including accommodations related to compliance with conditional job offer requirements, consistent with federal, state, and local laws. Supporting medical or religious documentation will be required where applicable and permitted by applicable law. To request a reasonable accommodation, please send an e-mail to recruiting-coordinator.sharedmailbox@nexteraenergy.com, providing your name, telephone number and the best time for us to reach you. 

NextEra Energy will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

NextEra Energy does not accept any unsolicited resumes or referrals from any third-party recruiting firms or agencies. Please see our policy for more information.

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