Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure

As a master system integrator (MSI), Smart Tech Contracting excels in streamlining complex building automation system (BAS) and technology integrations, offering a comprehensive turnkey package that includes DDC, PLC, and SCADA solutions. We offer systems design, graphical standards development, central plant optimization (CPO), enterprise-level energy and operational monitoring, and robust alarming solutions. Our expertise in hyperscale and colocation data center integrations ensures seamless, efficient operations vital in today's data-driven world. Position Title: Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure Position Location: Remote - work virtually from anywhere in the United States Eligible for Signing Bonus and New Hire Milestone Bonus up to $10k JOB SUMMARY The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure is the owner of automation estimating discipline for mission critical hyperscale and colocation data‑center projects from 10 MW to 200 MW and budgets of $10M – $150 M+ per campus. You will lead the full proposal life‑cycle— reviewing RFPs, analyzing scope, building detailed cost models, and crafting winning strategies that balance speed‑to‑market with Tier III/IV reliability. The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will steward and continuously improve our estimating software stack and standard proposal templates while interfacing daily with engineering, procurement, construction, PMO, and business‑development teams to align scope, risk, and commercial strategy. You will cultivate preferred pricing with vendors, hardware / software channel partners and key subcontractors, mentor and train junior estimators, enforce data‑quality standards, and publish KPI reports for leadership teams. The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will be self-directed on day-to-day work and receive high level instruction on new projects, tasks or assignments. The Senior Automation Estimator – Critical Infrastructure will execute and lead teams and projects, tasks or assignments of complex scope. May coordinate activities of other personnel. This person will communicate and operate in line with organizational goals and values, as well as departmental objectives. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Estimating Leadership (50%) • Dissect RFPs, drawings, and specifications for BAS, PLC, DDC, SCADA, EPMS, DCIM, and OT network scope • Produce labor & material take‑offs, apply regional labor indices, and build bottoms‑up cost models • Drive value‑engineering options that maintain Uptime Tier targets while reducing capex/OPEX. Process and Tool Ownership (20%) • Implement new estimating tool stack supporting greater speed and accuracy for larger complex projects • Implement new Bid management tools for qualifying trade partners and soliciting sub pricing • Build and Manage budgeting database supporting quick evaluations, improving speed of response to RFPs. • Develop Power BI dashboards or similar for margin and accuracy tracking • Pilot AI‑assisted workflows and tools to automate and streamline estimating phase efforts • Continuously evaluate and improve preconstruction processes and tools to improve speed, accuracy and efficiency Vendor and Subcontractor Management (10%) • Issue RFQs, analyze bids, and negotiate T&Cs for control panel shops, material vendors and subcontractors • Maintain OEM and vendor pricing lists and agreements and negotiate pricing Client Engagement (10%) • Lead estimate review calls with hyperscale owner teams; defend cost drivers, productivity factors, and contingency rationale • Support Business Development teams by building relationships with clients and contractor Preconstruction teams, and converting conceptual budgets into executable contracts through budgeting exercises and formal RFP iterations. Mentoring and Reporting (10%) • Coach junior estimators and interns; author estimating SOPs and playbooks • Publish weekly/monthly KPI reports (bid volume, win rate, forecast vs. actual) • Work closely with project management teams to ensure a smooth transition from estimation to execution • Provide detailed documentation and support to project teams during the handover process Technology, Digital Tools & AI-Enabled Efficiency Leverage AI-enabled and digital tools to enhance efficiency, reduce manual effort, and support consistent, high-quality work output. Identify opportunities to improve processes and demonstrate a continuous learning mindset, seeking out new technologies, skills, and methods that elevate individual and team performance. Adapt to emerging technologies and evolving digital workflows, actively supporting the integration and adoption of innovative tools across the organization. Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned Requirements POSITION REQUIREMENTS (ADVANCED LEVEL FOR ALL THE FOLLOWING) • Technical Depth: Working knowledge of PLC platforms (Rockwell ControlLogix, Schneider M580), DDC hardware (Distech, Honeywell), SCADA/Historian software (Ignition, AVEVA, Tridium Niagara4), and mechanical and electrical integration • Software: Bid Management platforms (e.g. Building Connected, Procore); Bluebeam Revu, and Power BI for reporting and KPI analysis. • Standards & Codes: Familiarity with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, ISA 88/95, ISA/IEC 62443, Uptime Institute Tier Guidelines. • Soft Skills: Persuasive communicator, strong commercial acumen, decisive under tight proposal deadlines. • Certifications (preferred): ASPE CPE, AACE International CCP, PMI PMP, LEED GA. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex project requirements and develop accurate estimates • Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, Sharepoint), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management • Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and persuasively • Strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and completeness in all aspects of the estimating process • Strong negotiation skills, particularly in dealing with vendors and subcontractors • Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation • Ability to analyze market trends and apply cost data effectively • Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, vendors, partners, and internal teams • Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace • Ability to identify and analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions • Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence • Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information) • Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with little supervision • Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others • Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously PHYSICAL DEMANDS The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is • Frequently manipulating, moving or grasping small parts, devices or tools • Frequently required to remain in a stationary position • Frequently moving through office, critical facility and other environments (such as low temperatures, high temperatures and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind), including tight and confined spaces • Frequently descending / ascending stairs and ladders to access equipment • On occasion the employee may be required to position self under or over equipment • On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS • Up to 10%, this may include travel to any or all 50 US states • Effective May 7, 2025, and in accordance with U.S. federal regulations for domestic air travel, a valid REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport) is required for travel associated with this position. • Travel may involve transportation by car or plane depending on the destination and nature of the business need. • Travel is defined as physically leaving home on behalf of business activities including but not limited to client sites, meetings with other employees, meetings for business development purposes, running errands on behalf of the business, attending industry conferences, etc. EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, business, or related discipline PLUS • Minimum of 8 years’ estimating experience for systems integrator in industrial automation or mission critical industry • Demonstrated Success: Lead estimator on at least five mission‑critical projects ≥40 MW awarded to your company Benefits Smart Tech Contracting offers a very competitive benefits package; highlights include • Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option) • Dental and vision plans • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse / domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26 • 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option • PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year • Company paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents • Short and long-term disability, AD&D coverage • Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance • Paid parental leave after one year of employment CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC residents only: In accordance with CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC law, the range provided is STC's reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may differ based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and location. Smart Tech Contracting is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and participates in the E-Verify program with the Department of Homeland Security. We encourage diversity in our workforce. Are you ready to challenge yourself and redefine standards in the AEC industry? Apply now and join our award-winning team! NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES: STC does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to STC in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where STC has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of STC and STC will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation – no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.