Transmission & Distribution Estimator - Michels Power, Inc.
Transmission & Distribution Estimator
Location: Harrisburg, PA Employment Type: Full-Time
Estimating the Infrastructure That Powers Communities
Strengthening our nation’s power grid isn’t easy—but reliable electrical service is essential to everyday life. Every time someone powers a home, business, or community, Michels Power, Inc. is behind the scenes making it happen.
Michels Power, Inc. is one of the largest and most sought-after power delivery contractors in the United States. We execute projects across transmission lines, substations, distribution systems, renewable energy, and utility modernization , as well as emergency power restoration.
Position Objective
The Transmission & Distribution Estimator is responsible for evaluating bid specifications and drawings to ensure all requirements are understood and accounted for to successfully bid and win projects. This role works closely with subcontractors and Project Management teams to develop competitive bids, track budgets, and support successful project awards.
Key Responsibilities
Promote and maintain a strong safety culture , ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental policies, procedures, and regulations
Review bid requirements for projects ranging approximately from $500K to $10M , ensuring all aspects of the scope are fully documented and accounted for
Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for transmission and distribution construction projects
Partner with Procurement to secure vendor and supplier pricing
Identify, manage, and maintain relationships with subcontractors , ensuring timely and complete bid coverage
Aggressively follow up with subcontractors to ensure competitive bid participation
Develop project schedules and cost forecasts
Track and analyze budget-to-actual comparisons throughout the estimating process
Collaborate with Project Management teams to follow up on bids, budgets, and close business opportunities
Properly turn over bid documents and subcontractor buyout information to Project Managers
Review drawings with Project Management teams and highlight risks, scope gaps, and constructability concerns
Maintain accurate, organized estimate documentation and bid records
Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering , or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
3–5 years of related experience in estimating, transmission & distribution, or utility construction
Experience with negotiation and subcontractor coordination
Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
Desired Qualifications
Experience in transmission, distribution, or utility infrastructure construction
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software (e.g., Accubid, HCSS, or similar)
Exposure to project management or field operations
Experience working with utility clients, co-ops, or municipalities
Core Developmental Competencies
Customer Focus
Action Oriented
Personal Accountability
Drives Results
Interpersonal Savvy
Values Differences
Communicates Effectively
Instills Trust
Demonstrates Self-Awareness
Self-Development
Work Environment & Physical Demands
Combination of office-based work and field/site visits
Frequent standing, walking, along with desk-based work
Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
Work may include exposure to outdoor weather, active job sites, and moderate noise levels
Requires close vision, color vision, and focus adjustment for detailed estimating work
Approximately 25% travel required for jobsite visits, pre-bid meetings, and preconstruction support
Why Michels Power, Inc.?
Ranked No. 1 Electrical Transmission & Distribution Contractor by Engineering News-Record
Industry leader in utility, transmission, and distribution infrastructure construction
Family-owned company with long-term stability
Invests approximately $5,000 per employee annually in training and development
Work on high-impact projects that power communities and economies
Strong safety culture— everyone is responsible
Part of one of North America’s largest and most diversified infrastructure contractors
Comprehensive Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance
HSA / FSA Options
Short- and Long-Term Disability
401(k) Retirement Plan
Legal & Identity Protection
Why You?
You enjoy working with numbers, drawings, and construction scopes
You thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
You have strong attention to detail and organizational skills
You collaborate effectively with project teams and subcontractors
You want to contribute to infrastructure that powers communities and the electrical grid
Join a company that powers progress. Be a part of Michels Power, Inc.—where you don’t just build projects, you build a career.
AA/EOE/M/W/Vet/Disability