Corporate Senior Estimator

Irby Construction Company has been building infrastructure for the power industry for more than 75 years. Our business values and performance-driven mindset guide our actions. Our approach to work starts with safety, puts people first, seeks to innovate, and promises to perform.

Irby is proud of its inclusive work environment, family-oriented culture, excellent benefits, and clear pathways for career growth. We strive to provide every employee with clear expectations and opportunities for advancement. What’s more, Irby has long long-valued tenure. In fact, many of our executive leaders started with Irby early in their careers and in the field.

When you join our team, you join an established firm, with a culture centered around its people. Teamwork is how we work. There is no other way. Pride is ever-present inside our offices and the bond of brotherhood runs strong among our crews. 

Irby Construction is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quanta Services. That means team Irby gets the benefits of the company culture we’re known for along with the stability and resources of a Fortune 500 organization. (NYSE: PWR). 

Build your career at Irby Construction.

As a Senior Estimator, you will lead the estimating process for large, complex electrical infrastructure projects. You will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost assessments while mentoring Estimator 1 and 2 level team members and collaborating with field estimators, project managers, operations, and subcontractors. You will leverage your deep expertise in estimating techniques, tools, and industry practices to ensure the success of Irby’s bids and proposals.

This role requires advanced technical knowledge, the ability to analyze risk, and strong leadership and relational skills to guide both internal teams and subcontractors through the bidding process.

Location/Travel Requirements: Position is based in Irby’s Richland, MS Corporate office with approximately 10% travel.

• Lead the take-off and estimating process for major projects, including bid unit comparisons, scope reviews, and cost analysis.
• Prepare and review estimates for labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractors, ensuring accuracy and competitiveness.
• Review and analyze proposal contracts, specifications, KMZ, BOM, submittals, and drawings, providing guidance to estimators and project teams.
• Identify risks, schedule requirements, and methods of construction after reviewing project documentation.
• Participate in and/or lead pre-bid meetings, both virtually and in person, representing Irby alongside operations and project teams.
• Send contract information to subcontractors for pricing and clarifications; analyze and determine the most competitive and qualified subcontractors.
• Generate and review time & equipment rates, storm rates, and pricing sheets for ongoing and upcoming projects.
• Assist with RFI, sustainability, and commercial proposal questions, guiding estimators and coordinators in providing accurate responses.
• Create and manage Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) codes in Excel for job budgets.
• Set up jobs in JDE and ensure accurate data entry for project execution.
• Review and comment on blue sheets and submittal documents, ensuring completeness and compliance.
• Collect and analyze historical cost data for use in future projects.
• Utilize Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, P6, and Irby’s in-house bidding sheets to support estimating and project planning.
• Oversee the preparation of green sheets (bid vs. actual cost comparisons) and Earned Value Reports (EVRs).
• Ensure accurate material pricing is applied to estimates and review contractor inputs for accuracy.
• Develop strategic bid presentations and present estimates for executive and field operations review.
• Collaborate across departments and maintain strong relationships with vendors, subcontractors, engineers, and clients.
• Stay updated on industry developments, tools, and methods to maintain competitive estimating practices.
• Mentor lower-level estimators, providing guidance and review of their work until they are proficient.
• Utilize Irby’s Bid SharePoint site and Salesforce data to manage bid documentation and project information.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of estimating experience in construction, preferably in electrical utilities, transmission, substation, or distribution projects.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, and working knowledge of P6 scheduling.
• Strong knowledge of estimating principles, cost analysis, contract review, and risk management.
• Ability to analyze drawings, specifications, and submittals with a thorough understanding of project requirements.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present estimates and recommendations to executives and field teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects from A to Z, coordinating subcontractors and internal stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills with a focus on developing less experienced estimators.

Irby offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 100% employer-paid health employee only medical coverage
• 100% employer-paid basic life and long-term disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contribution (100% on first 3%, 50% on next 3%)
• Paid time off (vacation and extended illness benefit leave), plus paid holidays.
• Professional development and training programs.
• Employee wellness and mental health support programs.
• Additional Benefits as Defined in Corporate Benefits Plan and Employee Handbook

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.