Lead Estimator

Position Overview

The Lead Estimator at CCE will drive both estimating excellence and business growth. In this leadership role you will lead the estimating team in delivering accurate, comprehensive, and competitive bids while also advancing client relationships, expanding our win-rate, and identifying new market opportunities. You will work intimately with operations, project management, senior leadership and our business development team to ensure that estimates not only meet our profitability and efficiency goals but also serve as a strategic platform for growth and client loyalty.

Estimating Leadership & Execution

• Lead the estimating team in developing accurate, competitive bids and proposals across our market segments.
• Review project plans, specifications, and documentation to define scope, identify cost drivers, and ensure alignment with our strategy.
• Oversee quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, risk assessments and bid reviews for assigned projects.
• Mentor, develop and coach junior and mid-level estimators to build a high‐performing estimating group.
• Establish and maintain consistent estimating procedures, templates and cost databases.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Serve as a key partner in our business development process: attend pre-bid meetings, client kickoff meetings and build estimating input into the early phase of opportunity pursuit.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, architects/engineers, subcontractors and suppliers to strengthen CCE’s reputation and market position.
• Analyze bid results, win/loss data and market trends to provide actionable recommendations for improving our bidding strategy, pricing position and target markets.
• Collaborate with the BD / sales team to identify new business opportunities, evaluate market entry or geographic expansion, and quantify risk/reward of new pursuit.
• Prepare and present cost-analysis, value-engineering and strategic recommendations to senior management and clients as required.
• Support post-bid review and project close-out to capture lessons learned and refine our estimating database and process.

What You’ll Need to Be Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of estimating experience in the electrical contracting or construction industry, with at least 2-3 years in a leadership/mentor role.
• Strong command of estimating software and digital takeoff tools (e.g., Accubid, Bluebeam or equivalent) and advanced usage of Excel.
• Deep understanding of electrical systems, construction methods, industry standards and market pricing trends.
• Demonstrated experience participating in business development or client-facing activities (client meetings, proposal development, relationship building).
• Excellent analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills combined with strong communication and interpersonal skills — you must be comfortable interacting with C-suite, clients and project teams.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Preferred: Professional certifications (Estimating, Construction Management, PM) and prior experience working with bid-analysis and win/loss processes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $140,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person