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Chief Electrical Estimator – Strategic Leadership OpportunityLocation: Chicago South Suburbs, IL | Reports to: PresidentWe are seeking an exceptionally qualified Chief Electrical Estimator to step into a key leadership role within our organization. This individual will bring deep expertise in electrical estimating combined with proven strategic leadership capabilities to lead a team of highly experienced Senior Electrical Estimators.
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE: The successful candidate will bring not only deep technical proficiency but also the strategic business acumen to drive growth, foster long-term client relationships, and secure complex, high-value projects. This role calls for outstanding negotiation skills, a strong record of business development success, and the ability to enhance client satisfaction while delivering optimal business outcomes.
ROLE SUMMARY: The Chief Electrical Estimator will bring hands-on experience estimating a wide range of complex commercial and industrial electrical projects. Reporting directly to the President, this leader will have demonstrated experience managing and developing senior-level estimating teams, exceptional negotiation skills with a track record of securing favorable outcomes, and strong business development expertise in cultivating new and existing client relationships. This is a critical executive leadership position with the opportunity to make a significant impact on the direction and success of the business.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
  • Base salary: $180K–$200K, commensurate with experience
  • Executive sign-on bonus
  • Annual Short-Term Incentive (STI) based on year-end net profit vs. budget
  • Potential individual performance bonus
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Company vehicle allowance or stipend
  • Paid time off and executive professional development budget
  • Long-Term Incentive (LTI) program potentialKEY RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Leadership
  • Provide leadership, direction, and training for estimating team members
  • Manage all aspects of the estimating process while meeting deadlines and short- and long-term company objectives
  • Prepare and present completed estimating packages to company executives and senior management
  • Assign and coordinate estimating requirements across staff based on project schedule and needOperational Excellence & Financial Management
  • Lead the team in delivering accurate, complete, and competitive pricing
  • Maintain customer relationships to define project scope, address deficiencies, negotiate pricing, and build long-term partnerships
  • Oversee the entire estimating process on all bid projects and accurately forecast future awards and probabilities
  • Lead the bid review process with management to ensure estimates are completed on time and to a high standard of quality
  • Manage the accuracy and quality of the ConEst estimating database
  • Provide conceptual budgeting guidance to clients and project managers based on historical data, lessons learned, and current labor unit rates, and clearly communicate the reasoning behind itTeam Performance & Development
  • Own team performance: develop, coach, and retain a high-performing leadership team
  • Manage the flow of information within the department so it is timely and supports accurate estimates
  • Foster a collaborative culture across field and office teams built on accountability, growth, and operational discipline
  • Support a healthy internal culture that retains key employees and encourages professional development
  • Partner with HR on workforce planning, training, and talent developmentQUALIFICATIONS
  • 15+ years of progressive electrical contracting or construction experience
  • 10+ years of electrical estimating experience
  • Computerized estimating experience required; ConEst preferred
  • Advanced Microsoft Office skills; expert-level Excel
  • BS in Electrical Engineering or Construction Management preferred
  • Exceptional financial acumen, contract negotiation skills, and operational discipline
  • Experience leading in a growth-focused, fast-paced environment
  • Strong relationship-building skills with clients, partners, and internal teamsOUR LEADERSHIP VALUES
  • Champion safety as a core value in every decision
  • Lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability
  • Foster innovation and embrace industry-leading practices
  • Develop people as the foundation of long-term successWe are an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace that values diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Also on the board Same function, level within a rung

Level

Manager

Salary

$180 K–$200 K

Location

Evanston, IL

Occupation

Construction Managers

Industry

Engineering Services

Posted

18 days ago

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