Substation Estimator (Electrical Construction)

Location: Various locations, including Otsego, Minnesota and Montgomery, Illinois; combination of office-based work and field/site visits with approximately 25% travel for jobsite visits, pre-bid meetings, and preconstruction support.

Salary: $90,000–$145,000 USD annually.

Company

Michels Power, Inc. is a U.S. power delivery contractor focused on substations, transmission, distribution modernization, renewable energy, oil and gas infrastructure, and emergency power restoration.

What you will do

• Review bid specifications, drawings, and requirements for substation construction projects valued at approximately $500K–$10M.
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, project schedules, and cost forecasts.
• Secure vendor and supplier pricing in partnership with Procurement.
• Coordinate with subcontractors to obtain complete and competitive bid coverage.
• Analyze budgets, identify scope gaps and constructability risks, and collaborate with Project Management on bid and award status.
• Turn over bid documents and subcontractor buyout information while maintaining accurate estimate records.

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 related experience in estimating, utility construction, or electrical construction.
• Experience with negotiation and subcontractor coordination.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work in outdoor weather conditions and active construction sites, including frequent standing and walking and lifting or moving up to 25 pounds.

Nice to have

• Experience in substation, transmission, or utility construction.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software such as Accubid, HCSS, or similar tools.
• Exposure to project management, field operations, utility clients, or power delivery contractors.

Culture & Benefits

• Strong safety culture with shared responsibility for safety and environmental compliance.
• Work on high-impact infrastructure projects supporting the U.S. power grid and communities.
• Approximately $5,000 per employee annually is invested in training and development.
• Medical, dental, life insurance, HSA/FSA options, short- and long-term disability, 401(k), and legal and identity protection plans.
• Family-owned company offering long-term stability.