Job Details

Job Title: Senior Estimator – Electrical & Instrumentation (Oil & Gas)
Pay Rate: $67-$77 a hour
Location: Grand Junction, CO or Midland, TX
Employment Type: Contract-to-hire (6 months contract before direct hire)
Reports To: Vice President of U.S. Construction
Position Summary
The Senior Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for electrical and instrumentation (E&I) scopes on new construction projects within the oil and gas industry. This role requires deep technical knowledge of E&I systems, hazardous area classifications, and industry standards, along with strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who embraces technology, including advanced use of Microsoft Office and AI-powered tools, to maximize efficiency and accuracy throughout the estimating process.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, take-offs, and bid proposals for electrical and instrumentation scopes on oil and gas construction projects.
• Analyze project drawings, specifications, and contract documents to identify labor, material, equipment, and subcontract requirements.
• Demonstrate robust knowledge of hazardous area classifications (e.g., Class I, Division 1 & 2; Zone 0, 1, & 2) and apply applicable codes and standards (NEC, IEC, API, ISA).
• Develop labor productivity assumptions and installation strategies specific to oil and gas environments.
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, procurement, and field leadership to validate scope, execution plans, and cost assumptions.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare vendor and subcontractor quotations to ensure competitiveness and compliance with project requirements.
• Identify project risks and opportunities and incorporate appropriate contingencies into estimates.
• Maintain organized estimate documentation to support bid reviews, audits, and post-bid analysis.
• Participate in bid review meetings and provide clear explanations of estimate assumptions, exclusions, and clarifications.
• Utilize Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) at an advanced level to build estimating models, summaries, and presentations.
• Leverage AI language models and digital tools to improve estimating efficiency, data analysis, scope reviews, and documentation quality.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating processes, tools, and best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 7–10 years of estimating experience in electrical and instrumentation construction, preferably within the oil and gas industry.
• Strong understanding of E&I systems, including power distribution, grounding, lighting, control systems, instrumentation, and automation.
• Demonstrated expertise in hazardous area classifications and construction requirements for oil and gas facilities.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple estimates simultaneously, and meet tight bid deadlines.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating large-scale or complex oil and gas new construction projects.
• Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., Accubid, ConEst, Trimble, or similar).
• Working knowledge of AI tools and language models (e.g., ChatGPT or similar) for improving workflow efficiency, document review, and data organization.
• Field experience in electrical and instrumentation construction.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (or equivalent industry experience).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.)
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
• A collaborative and forward-thinking work environment that values innovation and efficiency