Electrical Estimator Jobs

Are you a master at negotiating good deals with cable companies, cell phone providers, and retailers? Do you watch YouTube videos on electronics for fun? Then you might want to apply for electrical estimator jobs, where you can create or review bids for electrical projects for contractors and clients.

When working for a contractor, electrical estimators prepare detailed bids that include the estimated costs for labor, parts, and materials. When working for a client, they analyze bids from contractors to determine if the prices are reasonable, and if not, negotiate better prices. This is a great job if you thrive on structure, organization, and data and if you have a competitive nature.

Preparing a bid or counterbid often requires researching materials, other supplies, and current market prices; reviewing blueprints; and maintaining cost databases. You may also prepare reports, appraise existing structures, and create work schedules. An electrical estimator who does well can advance to a senior estimator or project manager.

If you're not sure this job would be a good fit, you can also search for other maintenance jobs, like:

Electrical Estimator Education and Skills

Electrical estimators typically have an associate or bachelor's degree. Some are trained and licensed electricians, while others have a degree in engineering or construction. If you choose the latter route, select a program that has classes on electricity, since you'll need a basic understanding of electrical principles, standards, and codes to be an electrical estimator.

It's helpful but not required to be certified. The most common certifications are from the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) and the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering International (AACE).

In addition to education and certification, you'll need to be a skilled negotiator to be successful as an electrical estimator, whether you work for a client or contractor. You'll also need to have exceptional organizational skills—you'll spend a lot of your time preparing documents and recording prices. Electrical estimators are also masters of multitasking, since they usually juggle several projects at once.

Read our job description of an estimator to learn more about what employers are looking for in candidates.

Update Your Electrical Estimator Resume

There are few perfect resumes and cover letters—most have room for improvement. Fortunately, we have tons of resources that can help you, whether you're writing your first draft or updating an old document. Review our resume writing tips, resume samples, and sample cover letters for some suggestions.

Interviewing for an Electrical Estimator Job

Do you feel nervous about an upcoming job interview? The best way to reduce anxiety is to come well prepared. Monster has a whole collection of articles about potential interview questions that can help you to prepare insightful answers and gain confidence for your interview.

How Much Do Electrical Estimator Jobs Pay?

Showcase your negotiation skills during the hiring process by counter-bidding the salary offer if appropriate. Start by reviewing our salary data to see what you should be asking for. The median salary for an estimator is $66,795, but regional differences can be significant. Use our Salary Tools to find out how much you could make in your area.

Find Out More About Companies That Are Hiring

During your job search, keep in mind that the employer is not the only party who should evaluate proper fit. Take the time to research a company before you apply or accept an offer to see if you would like to work there. Visit our company profiles to learn more.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

With an updated resume and cover letter, you're ready to start looking for electrical estimator jobs. We can help you make the application process easier. Search our free job listings, create a profile, and upload your resume to get started.