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Substation Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Substation Estimator is responsible preparing accurate material takeoffs, cost estimates, and quotations for substation-related projects. This role requires the ability to read and ...

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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 Jul 29, 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.

Are electrical estimators in high demand?

Electrical estimators, including substation estimators, are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades and new construction projects in the electrical power industry. Their skills in cost analysis, project bidding, and knowledge of electrical systems are essential for project planning and execution, leading to strong employment prospects.

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 does a substation estimator do?

A substation estimator is responsible for calculating the costs and preparing detailed bids for electrical substation projects. They review project plans, specifications, and scope to determine material, labor, and equipment costs, often using estimating software. Accuracy and knowledge of electrical systems and industry standards are essential for this role.

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's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of a substation estimator typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and geographic location. Estimators skilled in electrical systems and project management can earn higher wages, especially with specialized knowledge of substation components and construction processes.

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.

How much do entry level estimators make?

Entry-level substation estimators typically earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, company size, and prior experience. Starting salaries may increase with relevant skills such as knowledge of electrical systems and estimating software, as well as industry certifications.

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.
More about Substation Estimator jobs
What cities are hiring for Substation Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Substation Estimator job openings:
What states have the most Substation Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Substation Estimator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Substation Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,970 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Estimator Electrical Substation - EPC

Powerserve Technologies Inc

Orlando, FL โ€ข On-site

$70K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Title: Substation Estimator โ€“ Power Delivery (EPC)

Location: Jupiter, FL (However, we are willing to consider allowing someone to work remotely - if you have experience estimating High Voltage Substations or Switchyards and wanting to work remotely, please do apply!)


Reports To: Estimating Manager / Preconstruction Manager
Employment Type: Full-time

Salary: Commensurate with experience. We pay very competitively for top talent!!


Position Summary

The Substation Estimator โ€“ Power Delivery is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for EPC construction projects within the electric utility sector. We are looking for someone who has experience estimating Substations - both Above Grade and Below Grade. Both Greenfield and Brownfield.

This role focuses primarily on power delivery construction, including substations, transmission lines, and BESS facilities, across both greenfield and brownfield environments. The Estimator will also support select industrial construction estimates as workload and project mix require.

This position plays a critical role in supporting business development, project execution, and risk management by developing detailed cost models, evaluating construction means and methods, and collaborating closely with engineering, construction, procurement, and project management teams.


Key Responsibilities

Power Delivery Estimating (Primary Focus)

  • Prepare conceptual, budgetary, and detailed estimates for:
    • High-voltage and medium-voltage substations (AIS/GIS, expansions, retrofits)
    • Transmission line projects (overhead and underground)
    • BESS facilities, including civil, electrical, and balance-of-plant scopes
  • Develop estimates for greenfield and brownfield construction, including live substation work and outage-constrained environments
  • Perform quantity takeoffs from drawings, specifications, and models
  • Develop labor, equipment, material, subcontract, and indirect cost estimates
  • Evaluate construction means and methods, sequencing, and productivity assumptions
  • Analyze project risks and opportunities and incorporate appropriate contingencies
  • Support design-build, EPC, EPCM, and negotiated project delivery methods
  • Participate in estimate reviews, value engineering, and risk review meetings
  • Assist with bid strategy development, pricing decisions, and proposal support


Industrial Construction Estimating (Secondary / Supplemental)

  • Support estimating efforts for industrial construction projects, including:
    • Electrical, civil, structural, and mechanical scopes
    • Utility, energy, manufacturing, or heavy industrial facilities
  • Coordinate with discipline leads to ensure scope completeness and constructability


Collaboration & Handover

  • Work closely with:
    • Engineering to understand design intent and constructability
    • Construction teams to validate labor productivity and field execution strategies
    • Procurement to obtain vendor and subcontractor pricing
    • Project management to support estimate-to-budget handoff
  • Participate in post-bid reviews and lessons learned to improve estimating accuracy


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree is nice to have, but NOT required.
  • Must have 1-5+ years of estimating experience in power delivery projects such as High Voltage Substations.
    Demonstrated experience estimating:
    • Substations and/or transmission line projects
    • Utility-scale electrical infrastructure
  • Strong understanding of:
    • EPC contracting and project delivery models
    • Construction means, methods, and sequencing
    • Labor productivity and cost drivers in utility construction
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with BESS or renewable energy infrastructure
  • Exposure to live substation work, outages, and brownfield constraints
  • Experience with industrial construction estimating preferred but not required
  • Knowledge of union and non-union labor environments
  • Familiarity with utility owner standards and specifications
  • Professional certifications (PMP, CCP, PE, etc.) a plus


Estimating Tools & Software (Preferred)

  • Estimating software such as Hard Dollar, HCSS, WinEst, HeavyBid, Bid2Win, or similar
  • Scheduling software (Primavera P6, MS Project)
  • Intermediate to Advanced Excel skills
  • Experience with takeoff tools (Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, etc.)


Key Competencies

  • Strong analytical and organizational skills
  • High attention to detail with the ability to see the โ€œbig pictureโ€
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously
  • Collaborative mindset with field, engineering, and leadership teams


Performance Measures

  • Accuracy of estimates versus actual project costs
  • Timeliness and completeness of estimate deliverables
  • Quality of risk identification and contingency development
  • Effectiveness of estimate handoff to project execution teams


Some notes:

The hourly rate (or salary) we posted is JUST A RANGE. If your salary expectations exceed our range, we still want to talk with you!! Please do apply!! We want to talk to you! Our work environment is awesome! We are flexible with your hours...and we 100% understand work/life balance.

Powerserve Technologies is an equal opportunity employer.