Estimating Manager - Solar Construction

Company: The Clary Group

Position: Estimating Manager

Industry: Utility-Scale Solar Construction

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary: The Clary Group is seeking an experienced Estimating Manager to lead the development of accurate, competitive, and comprehensive estimates for utility-scale solar construction projects. This position requires strong knowledge of both mechanical and electrical solar construction, with the ability to evaluate complete project scopes from initial bid documents through final proposal. The Estimating Manager will be responsible for reviewing project documents, developing quantity takeoffs, establishing labor and equipment requirements, soliciting and evaluating subcontractor and vendor pricing, identifying project risks, and preparing detailed estimates and proposals. The ideal candidate understands how projects are actually built in the field and can translate drawings, specifications, schedules, and site conditions into realistic construction costs and production assumptions.

Qualifications: 5+ years of estimating or construction experience, preferably within utility-scale solar or renewable energy construction. Strong working knowledge of both mechanical and electrical solar construction. Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, contracts, and technical documents. Strong understanding of construction production rates, crew compositions, equipment requirements, and sequencing. Experience developing detailed labor and equipment estimates. Experience soliciting, reviewing, and leveling subcontractor and vendor proposals. Strong Microsoft Excel skills and experience working with estimating software and BOQs. Ability to manage multiple estimates and bid deadlines simultaneously. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work closely with estimating, operations, project management, and executive leadership.

Preferred Experience: Utility-scale solar projects of 20 MW and larger. Self-perform mechanical and electrical construction. EPC, EPC Lite, and Balance of System (BOS) contracting models. Civil and high-voltage subcontractor procurement and bid leveling. Tracker installation and pile foundation estimating. DC and AC electrical installation estimating. Project scheduling and construction sequencing. Historical cost and productivity analysis. Proposal development and client scope negotiations.

Key Competencies: The successful candidate should be highly detail-oriented while maintaining an understanding of the overall construction strategy. The Lead Estimator must be capable of identifying where an estimate carries risk, challenging unrealistic production assumptions, recognizing missing scope, and developing pricing that is both competitive and executable. This position requires someone who understands that a successful estimate is not simply a quantity takeoff—it must accurately represent how the project will be staffed, equipped, sequenced, and constructed in the field.