Civil Estimator Utility-Scale Energy & BESS Projects

R-2 Contractors is seeking a Civil Estimator for Utility-Scale Energy & BESS Projects in Salem, OR. The role involves preparing accurate estimates for civil construction related to energy projects, requiring hands-on experience in site preparation, grading, and utilities. Candidates should be detail-oriented and able to collaborate with teams. The position emphasizes a culture of teamwork, precision, and accountability in executing challenging projects.
Position: Civil Estimator for Utility-Scale Energy & BESS Projects Join Our Team at R-2 Contractors!Since 2009, R-2 Contractors has been a trusted leader in Civil & Underground construction, specializing in power infrastructure projects nationwide.From renewable energy to major utility work, we deliver expert excavation, grading, trenching, and foundation services that keep communities connected and moving forward.What truly sets us apart is our culture.At R-2, we’re a team of people who are hungry to take on challenging projects, humble enough to learn, grow, and collaborate, and smart in how we plan, build, and solve problems.We believe in showing up for each other, doing things the right way, and owning every aspect of our work.If you take pride in precision, thrive in tough conditions, and live by “ Pride, Grit, & Own It! ,” you’ll fit right in!We’re building more than infrastructure—we’re building a team that pushes limits and stands behind every job we do.Position Summary:The Heavy Civil Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and timely estimates for civil construction scopes related to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), electrical substations, and renewable energy infrastructure (including solar and wind facilities).This mid-level estimator position requires hands-on experience with civil scopes in utility-scale energy projects, including site preparation, grading, foundations, underground utilities, access roads, and stormwater systems.The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, understands utility standards, and collaborates effectively with engineering, procurement, and operations teams.Key Responsibilities Estimating & Technical:Prepare conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for civil scopes in BESS, substation, and renewable energy projects.Interpret civil, structural, electrical, and geotechnical drawings to quantify and cost applicable work scopes.Perform quantity takeoffs using Bluebeam, Plan Swift, or similar software.Analyze and incorporate subcontractor/vendor quotes and historical cost data.Develop work breakdown structures (WBS), scope narratives, and basis-of-estimate documentation.Understand and incorporate local site conditions (e.g., soil types, access, permitting constraints, weather impacts).Support value engineering efforts and offer constructability input during preconstruction.Use unit pricing and productivity rates based on labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor inputs.Identify cost risks and develop contingency recommendations.Collaboration & Communication:Collaborate with project managers, procurement, and field operations during estimate development.Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to solicit pricing and clarify scope coverage.Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure a smooth transition to project execution.Communicate clearly with leadership on cost trends, estimating assumptions, and project competitiveness.Process & Documentation:Maintain organized estimate files and backup documentation in accordance with company standards.Contribute to the development and upkeep of estimating templates and historical cost databases.Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures and preconstruction workflows.Required Qualifications:Experience: 3–6 years of civil estimating experience with at least 2 years in utility-scale energy or heavy civil infrastructure.Proficient in reading and interpreting civil site plans, grading drawings, foundation details, and utility layouts.Solid understanding of scopes common to BESS, substations, solar farms, and wind projects (e.g., mass grading, equipment pads, duct banks, fencing, access roads).Familiarity with utility owner specifications, QA/QC standards, and regional permitting requirements.Preferred Qualifications:Experience with civil estimating in BESS and high-voltage substation environments.Working knowledge of NESC, IEEE, ASTM, and utility interconnection standards.Familiarity with renewable energy construction sequencing, geotechnical influences, and stormwater management systems.Proficiency in civil estimating tools such as HCSS Heavy Bid, InEight, B2W Estimate, or equivalent.Competency with scheduling tools (Primavera P6 or MS Project) and estimating impacts of schedule on cost.Job Type:Full-time Benefits: Paid Time Off (PTO) / Sick Leave Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 401(k) with company match 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus Work Schedule: Office-based with occasional travel to job sites, pre-bid meetings, or subcontractor locations (up to 10-20%).Work Location:Prineville, OR Apply today to become part of the R-2 Contractors team! * R-2 Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr