Senior Estimator

About Us

Potelco, Inc., a subsidiary of Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE: PWR), was founded in 1965. We specialize in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services, which include designing, estimating, material acquisition, project management, construction, emergency power restoration, system maintenance, and similar services. Our expertise is in power, transmission, distribution, and substation projects. We are a leading full-service provider of power infrastructure, construction, and support services in utility and energy contracting throughout the Pacific Northwest and neighboring states.

 

We are proud to be working with some of the region’s largest energy companies as we continue to modernize their electric systems, move towards de-carbonization, and maintain thousands of miles of overhead and underground lines serving millions of residential and commercial customers. We uphold high safety, productivity, and reliability standards as we work with our customers to provide both current and strategic, forward-thinking energy infrastructure, delivery, and solutions.

About this Role

If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and have a passion for high-voltage electrical construction, then we have a role for you! Potelco, Inc. seeks a great EPC Estimator – High Voltage Electrical to join our team at the Potelco Inc. office located in Vancouver, WA

The pay for this role is a range of $120,000 - $150,000, depending on experience. 

What You'll Do

Estimating & Bid Preparation

• Develop detailed cost estimates for high voltage electrical EPC projects, including 69kV to 500kV transmission lines, substations, switching stations, and interconnects.
• Analyze project specifications, drawings, geotechnical reports, and environmental studies to define scope and develop accurate quantity takeoffs.
• Solicit, evaluate, and incorporate subcontractor and vendor quotes for major material and equipment packages.
• Prepare bid packages, clarifications, and assumption logs in accordance with project requirements.
• Perform cost-risk analysis and develop contingency recommendations for each estimate.

Project Scope & Risk Analysis

• Identify and evaluate technical and commercial risks associated with EPC project pursuits.
• Review client contract terms and conditions to identify risk drivers, ensuring estimates properly reflect contractual obligations.
• Conduct site visits as needed to assess project conditions, access, logistics, and constructability.
• Coordinate with legal, finance, and project management teams during the bid review and approval process.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, project management, and construction teams to validate assumptions and drive accurate estimates.
• Interface with clients, owners, and consultants to clarify scope and gather project intelligence during proposal phases.
• Present estimates and supporting assumptions to senior leadership in formal bid review meetings.
• Maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors, material suppliers, and equipment vendors.

Continuous Improvement

• Maintain and update historical cost databases, productivity factors, and unit rate libraries for HV electrical work.
• Track bid outcomes and post-project cost data to refine estimating models and improve accuracy.
• Stay current on industry trends, material market conditions, labor agreements, and emerging technologies in HV electrical construction.
• Support development and mentorship of junior estimating staff.

What You'll Bring

 

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum 5–10 years of experience in electrical construction estimating, with a strong focus on high voltage (69kV+) transmission and substation projects.
• Demonstrated experience estimating EPC projects in excess of $50M in total installed cost.
• Background in field construction operations or project engineering is highly desirable.
• Prior experience with design-build or EPC delivery models strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, In8 Estimation, or similar platforms).
• Strong working knowledge of electrical construction methods, equipment installation, and testing requirements for HV systems.
• Ability to read and interpret one-line diagrams, protection and control drawings, civil/structural plans, and project specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and project-related software tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to present complex information clearly to executive audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple simultaneous pursuits under tight deadlines.
• High degree of professional integrity and commitment to ethical estimating practices.
• Collaborative team player with ability to work cross-functionally across engineering, procurement, and construction disciplines.

What You'll Get

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.