Lead Estimator (Data Center Construction)

Black Box is a trusted IT solutions provider delivering cutting-edge technology solutions and best-in-class services to our customers around the globe. Since our founding, Black Box has been driven by its passion for social responsibility to positively impact the communities where we live and work. Through dedication to performance, a high level of competence and inspiration to have shared ownership, our Teams understand the value they add and execute with responsibility, accountability and pride. The sustainment of our success is backed with a “By All Means” mindset to ensure customer success.

If you’re looking to take your career to the next level and work with some of the best and brightest in the industry, we want to hear from you. We are an organization built on integrity and we have a culture that empowers people, embraces diversity, and inspires everyone to do and be their best. Globally recognized as one of the largest Technology Solutions Integrators, you will have the unique benefit of being a part of an organization that is experiencing tremendous growth and success 

Whether you’re a recent grad or a seasoned industry professional, you can experience meaningful career growth at Black Box. Enjoy a true sense of ownership as you work with a proven industry leader on some of the most exciting and high-profile projects and engagements across the globe. We offer a wide range of job opportunities, competitive compensation, benefits, and more. 

Position Details: 

• Exempt Salaried position  based upon experience (fixed weekly salary broken down hourly for invoicing purposes only.)
• Contract with possible contract extension or hire
• Standard support hours: Must be flexible, varies upon project demands
• Location: Remote - near Plano, TX
• Travel - up to 15% (mainly to Plano HQ)
   

This Opportunity:

The Lead Estimator is responsible for planning, preparing and completing cost budgets, estimates and bid package submittal documents for assigned opportunities under the guidance and direction of the Group Estimating Manager.  As required by various factors, a Lead Estimator is expected to oversee and delegate work assignments to an appointed group of estimating resources that may be required to develop opportunity pricing packages. 

What You Will Do: 

• Safety is our Priority. Follow Safe Work Practices that conform with the Company’s Safety Program and client worksite policies ensuring that every person on the team Stays Accident Free Every-day. 
•  Review full bid package - specifications, drawings, and any other provided documentation, and attend prebid meetings to determine scope of work and required contents of estimate. 
• Prepare and develop quantity take-offs, cost budgets and estimates from start to response package delivery. 
• Identify elements of the project that may be key to making a competitive estimate. 
• Evaluate and identify areas for potential value engineering opportunities. 
• Provide leadership to assigned estimating personnel / resources supporting the development of large RFPs. 
• Ensure all working documents and data are filed, stored and maintained to back-up estimate. 
• Develop installation unit costs and rates identifying labor productivity targets for included work items based on projected site conditions and historical data. 
• Prepare detailed listing of materials, equipment, and other items needed for developing a complete bid and work with suppliers and vendors on obtaining quoted pricing and availability. 
• Review potential subcontract trade partner quotes and proposals for completeness and conformance with plans, specifications and other bid-package documentation. 
• Assist in drafting proposal letters and other items that may be required for a complete response package. 

 Prior to the delivery of the formal bid package, coordinate and provide a detailed read-out / review of work scope, technical requirements, pricing and any other information to the Estimating Manager, Delivery and other internal Leadership.  After the successful award of the project, schedule and facilitate a detailed hand-off meeting with the Project Management Team to fully explain scope of work, potential areas of attention and other aspects for the successful transition of the project. 

Needs for Success:

• Experienced in reading, understanding and interpreting complex and detailed, design drawings and specifications. 
• Able to understand and perform industry aligned arithmetic and formulas that are required for developing cost estimates. 
• Ability to mentor and assist with the development of other lesser experienced teammates. 
• Identify and meet customers’ needs, expectations, and requirements. 
• Proficient in the use of a computer, Microsoft Office business applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and industry specific platforms (Bluebeam, Procore, AutoDesk, etc.). 
• Familiarity with modern estimating software and applications i.e., Accubid, McCormick, etc. 
• Experience in use of CAD, Revit or other 3D modeling software or viewers is a plus. 
• Ability to work under time constraints and adapting to changing priorities with a positive attitude is essential. 
• Excellent communication skills as required for the position. 
• Possess an entrepreneurial spirit with a high level of motivation. Can work as part of a Team and independently with minimal oversight. 
• Can effectively and professionally interact with all levels of employees, both management and staff alike, vendors, clients, and others. 

 What You Bring to the Table:

• Bachelor’s Degree Construction Management, Engineering, or related and progressive industry experience. (Relevant experience and training will be considered in lieu of degree.)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience estimating large scale complex Structured Cabling and Low Voltage System projects. 
• Experience in developing detailed and accurate cost budgets and estimates for Data Center Structured Cabling Systems is HIGHLY preferred. 
• Experience in developing cost estimates for projects utilizing various contracting methods such as Lump Sum / Fixed Price, Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), Unit Price / Rate, Design Build, etc. 

Preferred professional certifications: 

• BICSI Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) 
• BICSI Registered Telecommunications Project Manager (RTPM)
• AASPE Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) 
• AACE Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) 

 Supervisory Responsibility: This position may be assigned Estimating Resources based on needs. 

Work Location and Travel: Remote / Hybrid with up to 10% travel

Note: This job description outlines the general nature of the responsibilities and duties executed by this position. Other responsibilities and duties may be assigned as reasonably needed or required.

About Us:

Black Box Network Services is a leading technology solutions provider dedicated to helping customers design, deploy and manage their IT infrastructure. We deliver high-value products and services through our global presence and 3,000 team members.

What’s in it for You at Black Box Network Services?

Black Box provides challenging work that creates advancement opportunities within the organization for those demonstrating desire and aptitude through their achievements. We have no shortage of opportunities. If you are looking for a business that allows for individual reward and growth, we are the place for you!

Black Box does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status, and endorses those policies and practices which seek to recruit, hire, train and promote the most qualified persons into available jobs.

Visit blackbox.com to learn more.