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Substation Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elecnor Hawkeye

Senior Estimator

Queens, NY · On-site

The Substation Estimator plays a crucial role in developing detailed cost estimates for electrical transmission, distribution, and high-voltage substation projects up to 345 kV. This position ...

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Substation Estimator information

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$52K

$107K

$158.5K

How much do substation estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation estimator in the United States is $106,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substation estimator?

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 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.

Are substation estimators in high demand?

Substation estimators are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades and the need for electrical system expansion. They require knowledge of electrical components, project management, and estimating software, making skilled professionals valuable in the energy and utility sectors.

Is a substation estimator a stressful job?

A substation estimator's job can be stressful due to tight project deadlines, the need for precise cost calculations, and coordination with multiple teams. The role requires attention to detail, technical knowledge, and often involves working in high-pressure environments to ensure project budgets and schedules are met.
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Substation Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substation Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,970 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Senior Substation Estimator / Cost Engineer

GFT.

Owings Mills, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

GFT is seeking a highly qualified Senior Substation Estimator / Cost Engineer to support major electric utility transmission and substation projects. This position can be remote with periodic travel to client offices and project sites.
This position will serve as the lead estimating resource within integrated project delivery teams and will be responsible for developing project cost estimates, evaluating contractor proposals, supporting procurement activities, reviewing change orders, and providing project cost forecasting throughout the project lifecycle.
The successful candidate will have extensive experience estimating high-voltage transmission and substation projects and possess a strong understanding of utility construction means, methods, costs, and contracting strategies. The role supports project management and construction management services associated with utility capital infrastructure programs.
At GFT, we're not just engineering the future; we're meticulously building it. Our comprehensive suite of construction and program management services reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, innovation, and sustainability. Our construction management services are the cornerstone of our commitment to transforming communities and enhancing lives. We oversee every construction phase to help ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards.
In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
Construction Cost Estimating
  • Develop conceptual, preliminary, and detailed construction cost estimates for utility transmission and substation projects.
  • Prepare engineer's estimates using design drawings, specifications, vendor information, and field data.
  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for civil, structural, electrical, relay, and commissioning work.
  • Develop labor, equipment, material, subcontractor, indirect, escalation, and contingency costs.
  • Prepare estimate basis documentation, assumptions, exclusions, and risk assessments.
  • Support project authorization packages and funding approval efforts.
  • Participate in estimate reviews, validation, and challenge sessions.
Procurement Support
  • Participate in contractor and supplier procurement activities.
  • Prepare bid tabulations and comparative cost analyses.
  • Review contractor proposals and evaluate pricing competitiveness.
  • Support development of construction procurement packages and technical specifications.
  • Assist project teams with contractor selection and award recommendations.
  • Review supplier quotations and major equipment pricing.
Cost Engineering & Financial Management
  • Develop and maintain project cash-flow forecasts.
  • Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis activities.
  • Monitor project cost performance and identify potential budget risks.
  • Support project managers during financial reviews and forecasting cycles.
  • Assist with project reporting and cost-status updates.
  • Provide cost-risk evaluations and contingency recommendations.
Contract & Change Management
  • Review contractor change requests and change orders.
  • Prepare independent estimates for contract modifications.
  • Analyze labor productivity, equipment costs, and material pricing.
  • Support negotiations involving scope changes and construction claims.
  • Identify and communicate financial impacts associated with project risks and scope changes.
Project Integration
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, construction managers, procurement specialists, and client stakeholders.
  • Participate in constructability reviews and risk assessments.
  • Support development of project execution plans and cost-control strategies.
  • Provide management with clear and concise cost-related analyses and recommendations.
  • Assist in development of project funding and authorization packages.

What you will bring to our firm:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Business, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 10 years of construction estimating experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience estimating electric utility, transmission, or substation projects.
  • Demonstrated experience preparing estimates for projects exceeding $10 million in construction value.
  • Experience reviewing contractor bids and evaluating change orders.
  • Strong understanding of utility construction contracting practices.
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.

What we prefer you bring:
  • AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP).
  • Certified Estimating Professional (CEP).
  • Project Management Professional (PMP).
  • Utility owner, EPC, EPCM, PMOC, or Owner's Engineer experience.
  • Experience supporting investor-owned utility clients.

Familiarity with:
  • Utility construction contracts
  • Cost forecasting methodologies
  • Earned value concepts
  • Utility capital project delivery

Desired Technical Experience
Candidates should have experience estimating projects involving:
  • High-voltage substations (115kV-500kV)
  • Circuit breaker replacements and upgrades
  • Protection and control systems
  • Relay and metering installations
  • Underground cable and duct bank construction
  • Equipment foundations and structural steel
  • Site civil improvements and grading
  • Testing and commissioning activities
  • Utility outage-driven construction programs

Compensation:
The salary range for this role is $125,000 - $160,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.
Featured Benefits:
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.
At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.
Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.
GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.
Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.
Location: Mid-Atlantic area
Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time
Salary Range: $140,000 - $160,000
Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location
GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.
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