Electrical Estimator

About ODS Engineering

ODS Engineering specialises in designing, manufacturing, and installing modular EPOD units for the data centre market. The role of Electrical Estimator involves developing precise and competitive cost projections for electrical elements across EPOD projects, supporting the process from initial tender enquiry right through to the final pricing submission.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate comprehensive and accurate cost estimates for the electrical sections of EPOD projects, including material, labor, subcontract, and installation costs.
• Examine tender documents, diagrams, and specifications thoroughly to fully comprehend the project scope and identify any ambiguities, risks, or missing information before pricing.
• Conduct quantity take-offs from electrical schematics and single line diagrams, covering LV switchgear, busbars, distribution, cabling, containment, and panel components.
• Request and review pricing from suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring quotes are comparable and commercially viable.
• Calculate labor and installation expenses based on standardized productivity rates and specific project conditions.
• Prepare clear, organized tender submissions and pricing schedules, adhering to client deadlines.
• Collaborate with Design and Engineering teams to clarify scope and resolve technical queries during estimation.
• Coordinate with the Commercial Manager to assess and assign costs for project risks, exclusions, and assumptions.
• Support value engineering efforts by identifying alternative options or suppliers that preserve quality while enhancing cost competitiveness.
• Provide input on electrical cost estimations as part of the broader EPOD project pricing alongside other discipline estimators.
• Participate in pre-tender and clarification meetings involving clients, consultants, or main contractors when required.
• Maintain and cultivate relationships with electrical equipment suppliers and specialist subcontractors.
• Manage enquiries and track quotations to meet pricing deadlines.
• Contribute feedback to the approved supplier list, highlighting potential new or alternative suppliers for consideration.
• Ensure seamless handover of detailed estimate breakdowns and assumptions to the Project Management team after contract award.
• Monitor the accuracy of initial estimates compared to final project costs and apply lessons learned to improve future pricing accuracy.
• Assist in maintaining and enhancing the company’s cost database, pricing templates, and standardized build-up rates for repeat EPOD configurations.

Candidate Profile

• Between three and six years’ experience in electrical estimating, preferably within electrical contracting, panel manufacturing, modular construction, or projects related to data centres or critical infrastructure.
• Proficient in interpreting electrical drawings, single line diagrams, and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of low voltage electrical systems, including distribution, switchgear, cabling, and containment systems.
• Experienced in performing material take-offs and detailed cost calculations.
• Numerically strong with excellent analytical abilities and attention to detail.
• Competent user of Microsoft Excel and either familiar with estimating software or able to quickly learn ODS’s internal systems.
• Effective communication skills, capable of engaging professionally with suppliers, engineers, and clients.
• Able to manage multiple tender projects concurrently and deliver within tight timelines.