Chief Electrical Estimator

SearchWorks has been retained by a rapidly growing, union electrical contractor in the Chicago metro area to identify their next Chief Electrical Estimator. Our client is on a steep growth curve — expanding both its service lines and its geographic footprint across the Midwest and into new markets including solar and data centers.

This is a department leadership role reporting directly to the Vice President, with a team of estimators reporting to you. You will own estimating strategy company-wide at a firm where the bid pipeline is expanding into unfamiliar territories and project types, making the accuracy and discipline of your department directly consequential to the business.

What you'll own

• Department leadership — Lead, mentor, and set direction for a team of electrical estimators; establish workflows and best practices across all bids.
• Blueprint and specification analysis — Oversee review of construction documents across active projects to determine full scope of work: lighting, power, low voltage, and fire alarm systems.
• Cost strategy — Establish and validate the methodology for calculating material quantities (conduit, wire, fixtures) and labor hours, ensuring consistency across the team.
• Bid proposal approval — Provide final sign-off on detailed proposals covering materials, labor, subcontractors, permitting, and overhead prior to submission.
• Supplier and subcontractor relationships — Build and maintain strategic vendor relationships to secure competitive pricing.
• Risk assessment — Identify design gaps, difficult site conditions, and other exposures, and ensure appropriate contingencies are built into every proposal.
• Software standards — Set team standards for estimating software (ConEst, Accubid, or comparable).

Project types

Commercial, industrial, and manufacturing (power distribution, lighting, life safety, low voltage, controls) and data center / mission-critical work (backup power, generators, UPS, low-voltage cabling, security systems).

What we're looking for

• 15+ years in electrical contracting or construction
• 10+ years of electrical estimating experience
• Experience leading or mentoring estimators
• Strong proficiency with computerized estimating software (ConEst preferred) and Excel
• Willingness to visit job sites and work directly with field personnel
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred

Location and travel

Based on-site in Westmont, IL, with regular travel to a second Chicago-area office and up to 10% travel nationally.

Compensation

$180,000 – $250,000 total compensation, plus comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with employer match, and a company vehicle allowance or stipend.

All inquiries are confidential. Client identity disclosed to qualified candidates during initial screening.