Project Estimator (San Mateo)

Position Summary

The Estimator plays a central role in evaluating and forecasting costs for large-scale solar and

energy storage developments. This position supports projects from early feasibility through

final execution, ensuring cost accuracy, market alignment, and financial competitiveness. The

role involves preparing comprehensive cost models, analyzing contractor proposals, and

supporting strategic decisions across civil, electrical, and structural work scopes.

Collaboration with internal teamssuch as development, engineering, procurement, and

project managementis key to ensuring high-quality, data-driven estimates.

The ideal candidate brings a solid foundation in construction estimating, experience with

renewable energy infrastructure, and a strong command of cost modeling for utility-scale

projects. Regular presence in the companys Bay Area office is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Estimation and Analysis

Develop detailed cost estimates for large solar and battery storage projects, covering

site grading, foundations, mounting systems, cabling, substations, and grid

interconnections.

Review and compare subcontractor and supplier bids to validate cost competitiveness.

Build and maintain cost databases, unit price libraries, and productivity benchmarks

tailored to solar EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) work.

Deliver conceptual, budgetary, and detailed cost estimates to support all project

stages.

Prepare contingency assessments and sensitivity analyses for cost risk management.

Market Research and Data Management

Maintain accurate records of historical cost data and project metrics.

Analyze market trends in equipment, materials, and labor to inform pricing strategies.

Track regional cost variations and prevailing wage requirements, including

compliance with relevant labor and apprenticeship standards.

Validate estimates through benchmarking against recognized industry and public-

sector data sources.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work with engineering to assess design alternatives and their cost impacts.

Support procurement with bid evaluation and vendor negotiations.

Provide cost input for project development activities such as site selection, permitting,

and grid interconnection.

Communicate findings and present cost summaries, value engineering options, and

risk evaluations to management.

Processes and Tools

Apply estimating software and internal modeling tools for cost forecasting.

Develop standardized templates, assumptions, and estimating protocols to ensure

internal consistency.

Recommend improvements to estimation methodologies and project cost controls.

Qualifications

Bachelors degree in engineering, construction management, or a related technical

field.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in estimating large-scale infrastructure, renewable

energy, or EPC construction projects.

Strong understanding of solar PV and battery storage technologies, including major

system components and installation methods.

Familiarity with regional labor markets, wage compliance, and productivity

benchmarking.

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating tools; familiarity with

scheduling software such as Primavera P6 or MS Project is advantageous.

Excellent analytical and communication skills with high attention to accuracy and

detail.

Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines in a development-focused

environment.

Working knowledge of construction contract structures (lump sum, unit price, EPC).

Demonstrated ability to identify cost-saving measures and mitigate risk through value

engineering.

Compensation and Benefits

$125,000 - $160,000 plus 15% bonus

Comprehensive benefits including health coverage, retirement plan (401k match up to

5%) with employer contribution, and paid time off.

Flexible work options with a collaborative, mission-driven culture.

Opportunity to contribute to the growth of renewable energy infrastructure and

sustainable development.