Cost Estimator

Post Date

Jul 17, 2025

Location

Grass Valley,
California

ZIP/Postal Code

95945
US
Sep 19, 2025 Insight Global

Job Type

Perm

Category

Project Manager

Req #

DGO-795931

Pay Rate

$80k - $100k (estimate)

Job Description

Position Summary:
The Solar and Battery Project Cost Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive bottom-up cost estimates for solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) installations, ranging from 50kW to 5MW. The role encompasses estimating costs associated with site preparation, civil work, foundations, equipment pad installations, electrical contracting, integration, and commissioning of solar and battery storage systems. Expertise in ground mount, rooftop, and carport solar installations, as well as Commercial & Industrial (C&I) and utility-scale BESS applications, is essential. This role reports directly to the Sales Engineering Manager and is part of the Project Development team within the Sales organization.

Key Responsibilities:
Develop detailed bottom-up cost estimates for solar + BESS projects (50kW5MW), ensuring accuracy and comprehensiveness from initial ROM (Rough Order of Magnitude) to turnkey solutions.
Prepare estimates for site preparation, civil and structural work, foundation construction, equipment installation (including pad-mounted systems), electrical contracting, system integration, and commissioning.
Leverage industry-standard estimating tools, such as RSMeans and other relevant estimating databases, to ensure competitive and market-aligned pricing.
Create, refine, and maintain internal cost-estimating tools and templates that streamline and standardize the pricing and estimating processes.
Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, sales, and project management teams to validate estimates and continuously refine cost assumptions and methodologies.
Conduct detailed analysis of bids received from subcontractors and suppliers, including reviewing for completeness, accuracy, and conformity to specifications.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, market pricing fluctuations, labor rates, and regional variations in construction costs.
Clearly document and communicate cost estimate assumptions, risk factors, and exclusions to project stakeholders.

We are a company committed to creating inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment opportunities without regard to race, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship status, disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to Human Resources Request Form. The EEOC "Know Your Rights" Poster is available here.

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Required Skills & Experience

Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, finance, or a related field preferred; relevant experience may substitute formal education.
Minimum 35 years of experience in cost estimating for solar and BESS construction projects.
Proven experience estimating solar PV installations (ground mount, rooftop, carport) and battery energy storage systems at C&I and utility scale.
Strong proficiency with industry-standard estimating tools (e.g., RSMeans) and a proven track record of developing and maintaining internal estimating tools.
Familiarity with electrical contracting, civil engineering, structural design considerations, and site preparation requirements.
Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a meticulous approach to cost analysis and budgeting.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to clearly articulate estimate assumptions and methodologies to internal and external stakeholders.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, estimating software, and other relevant applications.

Benefit packages for this role will start on the 31st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.