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Substation Estimator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

... substation structures, to meet national codes, industry standards, and customer requirements. - Typical responsibilities range from providing preliminary design estimates to checking final design for ...

Substation Estimator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$48.7K

$100.3K

$148.6K

How much do substation estimator jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation estimator in Decatur, AL is $100,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $117,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Substation Estimator, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, cost estimation techniques, and experience with utility construction projects, typically supported by a degree in engineering or related field. Familiarity with estimation software like AutoCAD, SAP, and specialized tools such as Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project is often required, along with understanding of utility standards. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills are crucial for coordinating with project teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate project bids, effective resource planning, and successful delivery of substation construction projects within budget and timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by Substation Estimators when preparing project bids?

Substation Estimators often encounter challenges such as accurately interpreting complex engineering drawings, staying up-to-date with fluctuating material and labor costs, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders to gather precise project requirements. Managing tight deadlines while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards can also add pressure. Effective communication with engineering, procurement, and construction teams is essential to produce reliable cost estimates and minimize risks of budget overruns.

What is a Substation Estimator?

A Substation Estimator is a professional responsible for calculating the costs and resources needed to construct or upgrade electrical substations. They review project plans, specifications, and drawings to estimate labor, material, equipment, and time requirements. Their work is crucial for helping utility companies and contractors prepare accurate bids and budgets for substation projects. Substation Estimators often collaborate with engineers, project managers, and suppliers to gather information and ensure the estimates reflect current market conditions.

What is the difference between Substation Estimator vs Substation Engineer?

AspectSubstation EstimatorSubstation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or construction management, with estimating certifications preferredRequires a degree in electrical engineering or related field, often with professional engineering licensure
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based with site visits for project assessmentOffice work combined with on-site inspections and project design
Industry UsageUsed in project bidding, cost estimation, and procurementInvolved in design, technical analysis, and project oversight

The main difference is that a Substation Estimator focuses on cost estimation and bidding processes, while a Substation Engineer handles design, technical specifications, and project execution. Both roles require electrical knowledge and industry experience, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Substation Estimator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Substation Estimator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substation Estimator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Substation Estimator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Substation Estimator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Substation Estimator job openings:

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Hargrove is hiring a licensed Electrical Engineer (PE) with strong experience in high-voltage substation design to join our growing team. This role supports projects up to 345kV

Locations & Work Flexibility

  • Primary location: Mobile, AL

  • Additional office options: TX, LA, SC, GA, PA

  • Hybrid or interoffice execution support may be available

  • Relocation assistance may be offered based on role and location

Job Summary

Hargrove Engineers & Constructors is seeking a licensed Professional Electrical Engineer (PE) with extensive experience in highvoltage substation systems to join our growing team. This role focuses on the physical design, analysis, and execution of substations up to 345kV, supporting projects from early conceptual development through construction and commissioning.

The ideal candidate is a technically strong engineer who brings leadership capability, sound engineering judgment, and a commitment to quality, safety, and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Key ResponsibilitiesSubstation Physical Design

Perform complete physical design of highvoltage substations in compliance with applicable codes, standards, and client requirements, including:

  • General arrangement drawings
  • Equipment, electrical, and control building layouts
  • Elevation and section views
  • Cable trench and duct bank design
  • Equipment grounding systems and ground grids
  • Lightning protection systems
  • Conduit and cable tray routing
  • AC and DC station service systems
  • Substation area lighting systems
  • Bills of Materials (BOMs)
Electrical Studies & Analysis

Conduct and/or oversee detailed electrical calculations and studies, including:

  • Substation grounding calculations and touch/step voltage analysis
  • Pre and postenergization harmonic studies
  • Shortcircuit and fault current analysis
  • Bus bar mechanical force calculations
  • Load flow and reactive power flow analysis
  • Harmonic filter analysis
  • NERC compliance evaluations
  • Protective relay coordination studies
  • Transient analysis
  • Transmission slackspan calculations
  • Corona performance studies
Equipment Specifications & Procurement
  • Develop equipment and material specifications for outdoor switchyard equipment up to 345kV
  • Prepare procurement specifications and design scopes for engineered equipment, including:
    • Vacuum and SF circuit breakers
    • Motoroperated and manual gangoperated switches
    • Current and potential transformers (CTs/PTs)
    • Station service transformers
    • Insulators and surge arresters
    • Station service battery systems
  • Review, coordinate, and integrate vendor drawings and technical documentation
Project Execution & Collaboration
  • Coordinate with vendors to ensure timely delivery of drawings, materials, and equipment in accordance with project schedules
  • Develop conceptual and preliminary designs to support planning and cost estimating
  • Prepare design documentation supporting procurement, construction, and operations/maintenance
  • Participate in and/or lead client meetings and job site visits
  • Support construction activities and commissioning as needed
  • Adhere to Hargrove's QA/QC processes across all design deliverables
Leadership & Mentorship
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and designers
  • Support the development of best practices and consistency in substation design execution
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
  • Active Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in substation physical design
  • Proven experience with highvoltage systems up to 345kV
  • Strong organizational, documentation, and quality control skills
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Software Experience

Working knowledge of one or more of the following:

  • AutoCAD and/or AutoCAD Electrical
  • Bentley MicroStation
  • ETAP, SKM PowerTools, or ASPEN OneLiner
  • CYMCAP
  • PLSCADD (or comparable transmission line analysis software)
  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods, as required by project and site activities

#LI-BH1

Hargrove Culture

We work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a "team mentality" so that each person understands the value of their contributions both on a project and company-wide level. We know that each person on our team contributes to the success of our company by pairing expertise and passion to meet and exceed the needs of the clients we serve across the globe.

Our safety culture protects and promotes the well-being of every person who works with us and every person touched by our work.

As a 100% Teammate owned company, we proudly offer a comprehensive benefits package including, paid holidays, personal paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), and other benefits to eligible Teammates.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Hargrove is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, sexual identity, marital or family status), disability, military service or obligations, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Hargrove is a drug-free workplace.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.