Transmission & Distribution Estimator

Location: East Syracuse, NY, United States. Full-time role combining office-based work with field and jobsite visits; approximately 25% travel is required.

Salary: $90,000–$145,000 USD per year.

Company

Michels Power, Inc. delivers transmission lines, substations, distribution systems, renewable energy, utility modernization, and emergency power restoration projects as part of hirify.global.

What you will do

• Review bid specifications, drawings, and project scopes for transmission and distribution construction projects valued at approximately $500K–$10M.
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, project schedules, and cost forecasts.
• Obtain vendor and supplier pricing through Procurement and coordinate subcontractor bid coverage.
• Track budget-to-actual results, maintain estimate documentation, and organize bid records.
• Review drawings with Project Management to identify risks, scope gaps, and constructability concerns.
• Follow up on bids and opportunities and transfer bid documents and subcontractor buyout information to Project Managers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3–5 years of experience in estimating, transmission and distribution, or utility construction.
• Experience with negotiation and subcontractor coordination.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work at active job sites, stand and walk frequently, and lift or move up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work around outdoor weather and moderate noise and perform detailed visual estimating work.

Nice to have

• Experience in transmission, distribution, or utility infrastructure construction.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software such as Accubid, HCSS, or similar tools.
• Exposure to project management or field operations.
• Experience with utility clients, co-ops, or municipalities.

Culture & Benefits

• Strong safety culture with shared responsibility for safety and environmental compliance.
• Training and development investment of approximately $5,000 per employee annually.
• Medical, dental, and life insurance.
• HSA/FSA options, short- and long-term disability, and a 401(k) retirement plan.
• Legal and identity protection benefits.
• Work on infrastructure projects supporting communities and the electrical grid.