Project Estimator

Who We Are:

GMB Power Line Services is a family-owned, West Virginia-based utility contractor devoted to one clear pledge: deliver the safest, highest-quality powerline solutions whenever—and wherever—communities need us. From the storm-prone Gulf Coast to the snowy Northeast and out to the heart of the Midwest, our IBEW-supported crews mobilize from satellite hubs at a moment’s notice, restoring and maintaining critical electrical infrastructure with industry-leading speed and craftsmanship.

Bound by a shared mission of operating excellence, our people go the extra mile—literally and figuratively—to keep the lights on. As we expand our fleet, grow our corporate team, and welcome additional full-time lineworkers, we remain anchored by our vision: prioritize safety, uphold best-in-class standards, and build a more reliable, sustainable energy grid that powers progress and uplifts every community we serve. Join a close-knit company that gives back locally, stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its union family, and never stops reaching higher.

Position Summary:

The Project Estimator at GMB is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing the estimating department, ensuring accurate cost projections, and supporting project success through strategic planning and execution. This position drives the development of comprehensive bids and proposals for powerline construction, maintenance, and upgrade projects, while collaborating with external and internal stakeholders. The Project Estimator will play a critical role in optimizing processes, securing competitive pricing, and analyzing financial performance that aligns with GMB’s mission. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise and enhanced strategic thinking to enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the company’s growth.

Key duties and responsibilities:

Estimating Leadership and Project Oversight

- Lead the estimating department and working closely with business development teams to ensure accuracy in cost estimations.

- Develop and review detailed cost estimates for powerline construction, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring accuracy in labor, material, and equipment requirements.

- Manage and oversee all Requests for Proposal (RFP) and bid processes, ensuring timely and competitive submissions that align with the GMB’s financial objectives.

- Conduct job costing to analyze and validate post-project financial performance, comparing estimates to actual costs for analysis lead decision making.

- Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with clients, subcontractors, and vendors to secure competitive terms and project profitability.

- Coordinate and participate in site visits and pre-bid meetings to gather essential project information.

- Collaborate with the sales team to identify target projects, analyze opportunities, and drive revenue growth.

- Develop strategy for project proposal, identifying thoughtful process for selecting RFPS for application while expanding GMB qualifications to meet RFP requirements.

- Work with Executive Leadership to review, adjust, and approve project rates, proposals, and bid strategies.

Vendor and Supplier Relationship Management

- Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure competitive pricing and reliable material sourcing.

- Review and negotiate pricing with suppliers to secure cost-effective solutions for all projects.

- Partner with key vendors to develop long-term agreements that drive cost savings and operational efficiency.

Bid Development, Proposal Management, and Client Engagement

- Develop comprehensive and accurate bid packages, including direct costs, indirect costs, overhead, and profit margins.

- Lead the preparation and submission of proposals in response to RFPs, ensuring compliance with client requirements and deadlines.

- Partner with the business development team to create proposals that effectively communicate the company’s values and capabilities.

- Engage directly with clients during the bid process, participating in presentations and negotiations to demonstrate project solutions and secure contracts.

- Collaborate with teams to validate bid strategies, resource allocation, and construction schedules to align with client expectations.

- Track and analyze bid performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and refine future strategies.

Process Improvement, Systems Management, and Workflow Optimization

- Continuously evaluate estimating workflows, identifying opportunities to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

- Maintain and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to reflect best practices and ensure consistency across the estimating department processes.

- Implement tools and systems to enhance workflow efficiency, including estimating software, contract management tools, and tracking systems.

- Ensure proper documentation of estimates, contracts, and related project data for internal reporting and audits.

- Conduct post-bid and post-project reviews.

Education Requirements & Experience Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field or work equivalent.

- 10+ years of experience in powerline construction estimating or work equivalent. - 5+ experience in a leadership role.

- Proven track record of successful bid submissions and contract negotiations.

- Demonstrate familiarity with union labor structures, including IBEW rates and classifications, to ensure accuracy in estimating.

- Background in business development, client relations, or market outreach is highly preferred.

Technical Skills

- Advanced knowledge of powerline construction methods, materials, and industry standards.

- Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.

- Strong understanding of electrical utility specifications and requirements.

- Proficiency with contract management systems, project scheduling tools, and CRM platforms.

- Ability to analyze complex RFPs and bids.

- Knowledge of transmission and distribution systems up to 500kV is a plus.

Complexity

1. Leadership responsibility:

- Works across departments and coordinates with business development and operation teams while influencing leaders without direct reporting responsibility.

1. Scope/Financial Responsibility

- Manages departmental budgets, ensuring estimating costs remain within budgetary constraints, and leads contract negotiations to secure favorable terms while protecting company interests.

Job Type:

Full-Time, Exempt, Salary position

Benefits:

- Paid Time Off

- Paid Holidays

- Health Insurance Options

- Voluntary Benefit Options

- 401(k) Plans

Physical Requirements:

- Ability to climb ladders and navigate construction sites safely.

- Capable of working in various weather conditions during site visits.

- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

- Ability to travel up to 30% of the time.

Schedule:

- Monday – Friday

- Occasional Weekend Hours Required