Senior Mechanical Estimator

Senior Mechanical Estimator (Pile Install, Racking Install, Module Install)

About LightEdison

LightEdison delivers self performed energy construction services to power today's world and tomorrow's future. .

Job Summary

The Senior Mechanical Estimator is responsible for the preparation and management of detailed

cost estimates for mechanical aspects of solar energy projects, focusing on pile installation,

racking installation, and module installation. This role requires a deep understanding of

mechanical systems and processes involved in large-scale solar power projects, including

ground-mounted and fixed tilt solar arrays. The Senior Mechanical Estimator will assess project

plans, specifications, and designs to develop accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost

estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractors.

This position demands a high level of technical expertise, project management skills, and the

ability to collaborate effectively with project teams, clients, vendors, and subcontractors.

Key Responsibilities

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Pre-construction Estimating

Analyze bid documents, specifications, design plans, and other technical data to develop

accurate cost estimates for mechanical systems involved in solar installations, including

pile driving, racking systems, and module installations.

Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and design teams to ensure a clear

understanding of project scope, technical specifications, and objectives.

Perform mechanical take-offs for pile installation (helical, driven piles, or concrete

foundations), racking system installation, and module assembly.

Quantify and assess all materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractors necessary for

mechanical installations, ensuring a thorough and accurate cost estimate.

Develop detailed mechanical scope of work documents, ensuring comprehensive

coverage of all systems and processes involved in pile, racking, and module installations.

Utilize historical data, industry trends, and vendor quotes to inform cost estimates and

ensure competitive pricing.

Identify opportunities for cost savings by proposing alternative methods, materials, or

design adjustments while maintaining safety and performance standards.

Provide input into risk management strategies by identifying potential risks and

developing contingency plans for mechanical elements of the project.

Lead the preparation of detailed tender proposals for mechanical systems, ensuring timely

and accurate submission that aligns with client specifications and project objectives.

Collaborate with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotes for

mechanical components, including piles, racking systems, and mounting structures.

Review subcontractor proposals, ensuring the accuracy of scope, pricing, and schedule.

Prepare and submit comprehensive bids, including detailed breakdowns of mechanical

costs, materials, labor, and schedules.

Coordinate and collaborate with internal project teams, subcontractors, vendors, and

clients to ensure clear communication of project requirements, changes, and challenges.

Provide detailed feedback on cost and schedule implications when changes occur,

offering solutions or alternatives when appropriate.

Communicate with external stakeholders, including clients and subcontractors, to clarify

mechanical systems, ensure alignment on scope, and resolve issues as they arise.

Assist in post-bid activities, including clarifications and negotiations, to finalize scope

and pricing for mechanical systems and installations.

Support the project team during construction by providing estimates for change orders or

modifications, ensuring mechanical systems are delivered on time and within budget.

Identify discrepancies between original estimates and actual costs, providing solutions to

mitigate any budget overruns or delays.

Supervise and mentor junior estimators, offering guidance on estimating practices, cost

control strategies, and mechanical installation techniques.

Lead the development and refinement of estimating processes, templates, and tools to

improve efficiency and accuracy within the team.

Foster a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment, ensuring best practices are

followed in mechanical estimating.

Stay up-to-date with the latest mechanical technologies, construction methodologies, and

market conditions related to pile installation, racking systems, and module installation in

the solar energy sector.

Monitor emerging trends in solar technology, such as advancements in mounting systems,

pile-driving techniques, and module assembly.

Conduct market research to evaluate labor rates, material costs, and equipment

availability, ensuring cost estimates reflect current industry standards.

Expectations & Qualifications

Educational Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related

field.

Certifications in estimating (e.g., Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), Associate in

Estimating (AE)) or project management (e.g., Project Management Professional (PMP))

are a plus.

Experience

Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in mechanical estimating within the construction

industry, with specific expertise in pile installation, racking systems, and module

installation for solar projects.

Proven experience in estimating mechanical systems for large-scale solar projects,

including the ability to accurately cost labor, materials, and equipment.

Familiarity with mechanical estimating software (e.g., Accubid, or similar tools) and

proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Strong understanding of mechanical processes and systems used in pile driving, racking

installation, and module assembly.

Skills & Competencies

Mechanical Expertise: Strong knowledge of mechanical systems and components used

in solar projects, including foundation piles (driven, helical, or concrete), mounting

structures, and module installation.

Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting

deadlines and ensuring that estimates align with project objectives.

Leadership: Ability to supervise and mentor a team of estimators, fostering collaboration

and continuous improvement in estimating practices.

Problem-Solving: Analytical thinking to identify cost-effective solutions and resolve

issues related to mechanical systems and installations.

Attention to Detail: Precision and accuracy in estimating mechanical systems, ensuring

all necessary components and steps are considered.

Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively

collaborate with internal teams, subcontractors, clients, and suppliers.

Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate favorable pricing, terms, and conditions with

subcontractors, suppliers, and clients.

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in both office settings and on job sites for site evaluations, progress

checks, and coordination meetings.

Occasional travel to project sites may be required.

Work Environment

Office-based with regular visits to job sites to evaluate mechanical system installations

and review project scope and progress.

Collaborative work environment, interacting with project managers, engineers, clients,

subcontractors, and vendors.

Career Development

Opportunities for continued professional development, including advanced certifications,

training in new technologies, and leadership opportunities.

Potential career progression into senior roles in estimating, project management, or other

leadership positions within the company.

All job offers are contingent on a satisfactory Background Check.

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