Estimator

Oakland, CA

Opportunity

Adapture Renewables, Inc. is a leading developer, financier, engineer, builder, and operator of large utility-scale photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage systems. Leveraging our deep industry expertise, we deliver projects with exceptional speed, flexibility, and quality. Our dynamic Preconstruction team is seeking a skilled Estimator to contribute to our mission of building a sustainable future. Based in Oakland, CA, you'll join a company backed by KIRKBI Climate, the private holding company of the Kirk Kristiansen family and the foundation of the LEGO® brand.

 

Overview

As an Estimator for large-scale utility solar projects, you will play a crucial role in the development and execution of solar energy initiatives. You will be responsible for estimating project costs, reviewing EPC bids, and providing valuable insights to support informed decision-making through early stage to late-stage development of utility-scale solar and battery energy storage projects. The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for utility-scale solar projects, with a focus on civil, electrical, and structural Balance of Plant (BOP) scopes. This role collaborates closely with development, engineering, procurement, and construction management teams to ensure estimates reflect current market conditions, labor requirements, and project risks. The ideal candidate has a strong background in construction estimating, knowledge of renewable energy infrastructure, and experience with large-scale project cost modeling. We have a strong preference for candidates who can be in our Oakland office on a weekly basis.

 

Core Responsibilities

  • Estimate Development:
    • Conduct detailed cost estimates for large-scale solar utility and battery storage projects, including site preparation, foundations, racking, electrical systems, transmission interconnections, labor and substations.
    • Analyze and evaluate bids from subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive pricing.
    • Develop and maintain cost databases, unit price libraries, and labor productivity factors specific to solar EPC work.
    • Generate budgetary, conceptual, and detailed estimates and contingency plans to support project development and bidding.
  • Market & Data Analysis & Management:
    • Maintain accurate and up-to-date cost databases and historical records.
    • Utilize data analysis tools to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve estimating accuracy.
    • Track current labor rates, equipment costs, material pricing, and subcontractor market conditions across regions.
    • Incorporate prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements (e.g., Davis-Bacon, IRA PWA compliance) into labor cost models.
    • Benchmark estimates against NREL/DOE and industry data to validate competitiveness
  • Collaboration & Communication
    • Work closely with engineering to evaluate design options and their cost impacts.
    • Support procurement in vendor/subcontractor solicitation and bid leveling.
    • Provide estimating input to project developers during land acquisition, permitting, and interconnection planning.
    • Present cost breakdowns and risk analyses to senior management.
  • Process & Tools
    • Recommend and use estimating software and company spreadsheets/models.
    • Standardize estimate formats, assumptions, and contingencies for internal consistency.
    • Contribute to continuous improvement of cost forecasting and project controls practices.

 

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in estimating large-scale infrastructure, renewable energy or EPC construction (solar preferred).
  • Strong understanding of Battery Energy Storage Systems and solar PV technology, components, and installation processes including racking, foundations, cabling, and substation/interconnection scopes.
  • Familiarity with prevailing wage compliance, labor productivity benchmarking, and regional cost factors.
  • Proficiency in Excel and estimating software; experience with scheduling tools (Primavera P6, MS Project) a plus.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, problem solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced development environment.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy with strong numerical and analytical skills.
  • Collaborative mindset with ability to engage cross-functional teams.
  • Commercial awareness and understanding of construction contracts (EPC, lump sum, unit price).
  • Proactive in identifying risks, value engineering opportunities, and cost-saving strategies

 

Benefits Package

  • Competitive salary and benefits package, including 401(k) with company match, health insurance, attractive PTO, work-from-home flexibility, and more.
  • Opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future.
  • Dynamic and collaborative work environment.

Join us and make a lasting impact!

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