Estimator

Job Description

Estimator/Quantity Surveyor– Infrastructure Solutions – AMER

Position Summary

The Estimator / Quantity Surveyor is responsible for developing, validating, and managing project cost estimates to support strong cost control and optimal financial performance across the project lifecycle. This role leverages deep construction, estimating, and commercial expertise to provide accurate cost planning, bid analysis, and change order support for complex data center and mission‑critical infrastructure projects. The Estimator / Quantity Surveyor collaborates closely with Engineering, Construction, Operations, Finance, and Sales to ensure cost accuracy, competitiveness, and financial discipline.

Responsibilities

Cost Estimating & Market Analysis

• Research and analyze regional labor and material pricing using published indices, supplier data, and market intelligence.
• Prepare accurate and detailed construction cost estimates in collaboration with functional engineers across all project phases (conceptual, budgetary, and detailed).
• Establish estimate Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) aligned with project budgets and cost reporting systems.
• Maintain estimating assumptions, scope clarifications, and exclusions to support estimate transparency and auditability.

Bid Analysis & Commercial Reviews

• Prepare detailed bid comparisons and analyses for internal and external review.
• Lead or support estimate and bid review sessions with project teams and senior management.
• Perform peer reviews of estimates developed by other Vertiv functional teams supporting data center project solutions.

Change Order & Claim Management

• Manage the change order process from a financial and commercial perspective, including:
• Reviewing, developing, and validating change order claims
• Negotiating with suppliers and customers to achieve the best financial outcome
• Review, negotiate, and approve contractor progress claims in alignment with contract terms and project status.
• Ensure approved changes are fully reflected in project cost plans and financial forecasts.

Procurement Support

• Process and support RFPs, RFQs, and internal pricing requests.
• Collaborate with Sourcing, Construction, and Operations teams to ensure cost efficiency and competitive supplier pricing.

Cost Planning & Reporting

• Work with Finance and operating departments to develop and maintain a robust, integrated cost plan.
• Establish, maintain, and continuously improve a historical cost database to support future data center solutions and benchmarking.
• Partner with the Program Manager to prepare monthly project reports related to estimating activities, trends, and risk areas.

Additional Responsibilities

• Apply sound knowledge of general construction methods and best practices.
• Collaborate with Vertiv Engineering and Manufacturing teams to understand customized modular data center solutions and cost drivers.
• Maintain and promote a professional Vertiv brand image with customers, suppliers, and industry partners.

Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management or a related field
• Professional certifications are preferred (e.g., MRICS, PMP, Chartered Engineer, or equivalent)
• 7+ years of experience in a senior estimating or quantity surveying role
• Demonstrated success producing cost estimates for large, complex commercial or industrial facilities
• Strong experience in data centers, mission‑critical facilities, and MEP‑intensive projects
• Proven background managing:
• Bid and tender evaluations
• Contractor’s progress claims
• Financial and commercial change orders
• Experience supporting internal clients and managing external vendors in a matrixed environment

Technical Skills

• Advanced knowledge of general construction, with strength in:
• Data center technologies
• Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
• Proficiency in estimating and project controls software, including:
• AccuBid (or similar estimating tools)
• BlueBeam
• Primavera P6 and/or MS Project
• +MS Office, particularly Excel for cost modeling and analysis
• Working knowledge of project scheduling concepts and schedule‑to‑cost integration
• High attention to detail with a strong focus on numerical accuracy

Commercial & Analytical Skills

• Strong negotiation skills with demonstrated commercial judgment
• Able to clearly communicate complex technical and financial concepts
• Effective public speaker in both formal presentations and impromptu discussions
• Demonstrates professionalism, diplomacy, and tact in high‑pressure environments
• Well‑organized, able to prioritize work, and meet aggressive deadlines
• Strong customer‑focused mindset with a collaborative working style

Key Interactions

• Suppliers: Drive cost efficiency and support commercial negotiations
• Customers: Support revenue optimization and transparent pricing
• Internal Teams: Construction, Sourcing, Operations, Engineering, Finance
• Sales & Sales Management: Provide estimating and pricing support for pursuit and sales activities
• Industry Contacts: Stay current on tools, cost data, technologies, and construction market trends

Working Conditions

• Domestic role with partial site assignment during construction phases
• Variable working hours, including occasional after‑hours support
• This description reflects the general scope of the role and is not intended to be exhaustive

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Valid Driver’s License
• Eligible to obtain a passport
• Willingness to travel up to ~50% during construction phases