Cost Estimator/ Project Controls
Job Description
Location: Downtown Houston, TX (Hybrid – minimum 3 days in office)
We are seeking an experienced Cost Estimator to play a critical role in developing accurate, data-driven cost estimates for solar, wind, and battery energy storage projects across North America. This position will lead the preparation of detailed estimates, parametric models, and benchmarking analyses to support project development, engineering, procurement, and investment decisions.
The ideal candidate brings a strong analytical mindset, deep understanding of renewable energy cost drivers, and the ability to translate engineering inputs into reliable capital (CAPEX) and operating (OPEX) cost projections.
Responsibilities
- Develop Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM), conceptual, and detailed cost estimates based on project plans, technical specifications, Basis of Design, and Bills of Quantities (BOQ)
- Prepare comprehensive cost estimates covering materials, labor, equipment, and subcontractor services
- Create and maintain Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation for each project
- Collaborate with project managers, engineers, development, O&M, and procurement teams to validate assumptions and optimize costs
- Build and maintain cost benchmarking databases and tools
- Monitor market trends for renewable energy components and update cost databases accordingly
- Support and validate change management requests, including cost impact assessments
- Ensure compliance with company estimating guidelines, standards, and processes
- Develop and improve estimating tools, templates, and best practices
- Support project stage-gate processes and deliverables
- Leverage historical data and lessons learned to improve estimate accuracy and project performance
- Identify risks, opportunities, and cost drivers through internal and external benchmarking
- Minimum 10+ years of experience in cost estimating, budgeting, and financial analysis within the energy industry (renewables or oil & gas)
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field
- Strong ability to interpret engineering specifications, Basis of Design, BOQs, and contracts
- Technical knowledge of solar and/or wind energy systems, construction processes, and industry standards
- Familiarity with all project controls disciplines
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Strong communication and collaboration abilities
- Demonstrated commitment to integrity, safety, quality, and performance
HOUAC49
Meet The Recruiter
Nicole Stoker, CPC
Sr. Staffing Manager
Nicole joined the Burnett Specialists team in 2011! Her specialty is matching talented job seekers with temporary/contract, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire roles in the areas of Accounting, Finance, and Supply Chain.
Burnett, a Texas-based staffing and recruiting company, has been consistently ranked number 1 by the Houston Business Journal. Our extensive network of connections with hiring managers and candidates across all industries makes us an invaluable asset to your growth and success.
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