Lead Estimator
Job in
Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, 60602, USA
Listed on 2026-03-06
Listing for:
AtkinsRealis
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-03-06
Job specializations:
-
Engineering
Civil Engineering, Estimator, Environmental Engineer, Electrical Engineering
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Overview
We are seeking a Lead Estimator to join our team support our client's specialized energy initiatives.
This role offers a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on power grid and utility projects by providing expert cost estimating services across all phases, from early development through final closeout.
As a Lead Estimator, you will work on a diverse portfolio of investment delivery projects, varying in complexity and scale, while collaborating with industry-leading professionals. This is a full-time position, potentially based at the client site, that provides:
* A platform to showcase your expertise and unlock your full potential.
* Opportunities to contribute to world-class projects and deliver exceptional value.
* Collaboration with top-tier professional services teams.
* A competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits.
Your role
* Ability to develop estimates across all project phases (AACE Class 5 through Class
1).
* Prepare comprehensive estimate plans and basis of estimate documentation.
* Maintain and enhance the estimating database and develop benchmarking models.
* Review, validate, and provide feedback on estimates prepared by others.
* Identify potential issues early and take proactive actions to ensure project success.
* Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of estimating standards and procedures.
* Recommend strategies to advance technical expertise and best practices.
* Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with multiple client organizations.
* Develop detailed material take-offs to support estimate development.
* Perform complex estimating duties with minimal supervision.
* Take leadership in preparing large-scale and complex estimating assignment.
* Take the lead in the implementation and improvement of estimating standards and procedures.
About you
* Bachelor's degree in engineering, Construction, Finance or a related field, or 15 years of relevant experience, or alternatively 10+ years proven experience directly in Estimating environment.
* Certification with AACE, PMI or CMAA is preferred.
* Experience in Energy, Power Grid, or Utilities sectors preferred.
* Proficiency in estimating systems and tools, such as
Experience with Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) or similar estimating software, working knowledge of Primavera P6.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and cost management systems.
* Comfortable utilizing IT tools including Internet/Intranet and Windows OS.
* Proficient in quantitative risk analysis techniques.
* Familiarity with stage-gated project execution processes.
* Strong knowledge of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) scopes from both cost and schedule perspectives.
* Strong understanding of first principle estimating within the power, utilities, and infrastructure sectors.
* Ability to manage and support multiple active projects simultaneously.
* Understanding of industry best practices and methodologies.
* Clear, analytical approach to problem-solving with sound decision-making skills.
* Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
* Strong attention to detail with the ability to self-check work for accuracy.
* Excellent communication skills for interaction with internal and external stakeholders.
Rewards & benefits
At Atkins
Réalis, our values-Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence-are more than just words. They are the foundation of who we are and how we work. These principles shape our culture, guide our decisions, and inspire us to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to grow, succeed, and make a meaningful impact.
Depending on your employment status, Atkins
Réalis benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and short- and long-term disability benefits, employer-matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, Paid Time Off, leaves of absences options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits. You can review our comprehensive benefits page here.
About Atkins
Réalis
We're Atkins
Réalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We're committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.
Find out more.
Additional information
Expected compensation range is between $160,000 - $210,000 annually depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.
Are you ready to expand your career with us? Apply today and help us shape something extraordinary.
Atkins
Réalis is an equal opportunity, Drug-Free employer EOE/Veteran/Disability
Please review Atkins
Réalis' Equal Opportunity…
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