About Us
Preferred Electric is a leading commercial electrical contractor specializing in innovative and reliable electrical solutions across healthcare, mission-critical, industrial, commercial, and institutional markets. With a strong reputation for quality, performance, and integrity, we are committed to delivering projects that exceed expectations while building a culture where our people thrive.
At Preferred Electric, our culture is our greatest asset. We believe in accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and developing leaders at every level of our organization.
Job Summary
The Chief Estimator is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all estimating operations and bid strategy for the company. This individual will lead the estimating team, ensure the accuracy and competitiveness of proposals, and play a critical role in driving revenue growth and profitability.
Working closely with executive leadership, operations, and business development, the Chief Estimator will help shape project selection strategy, manage risk evaluation, and ensure seamless transitions from preconstruction to project execution.
Key Responsibilities
· Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team to maintain high performance and accountability.
· Oversee all bid and proposal activities, ensuring accurate, timely, and competitive submissions.
· Review project documents (plans, specs, addenda) to identify scope, risks, and pricing strategy.
· Develop comprehensive take-offs and cost estimates for plan/spec and design-build projects.
· Establish labor productivity assumptions and material pricing strategies aligned with company standards.
· Analyze project risks and present pricing recommendations to executive leadership.
· Coordinate with project management, field operations, and preconstruction teams to ensure successful project handoffs.
· Maintain strong relationships with general contractors, vendors, and subcontractors.
· Drive consistency and continuous improvement in estimating procedures and documentation.
· Utilize estimating platforms such as Accubid Classic and Change Order Pro to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
· Track bid results and performance metrics to refine strategy and improve hit rates.
Qualifications
· 10+ years of experience in electrical construction estimating.
· Proven leadership experience managing estimating teams.
· Strong working knowledge of NEC requirements and commercial construction practices.
· High proficiency in Accubid (or similar estimating software).
· Strong analytical and financial acumen with the ability to evaluate risk and profitability.
· Excellent communication and leadership skills.
· Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple large-scale bids simultaneously.
Salary & Benefits
$140,000 – $210,000 annually, based on experience.
· Flexible Work Schedule
· Unlimited Paid Time Off
· Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
· 401(k) with Company Match
· Eligible Support Staff Quarterly Bonus Program
· Leadership Development & Training
· Positive, Collaborative, and High-Performance Work Environment
Why This Role Matters
The Chief Estimator directly impacts Preferred Electric’s growth trajectory, project portfolio quality, and financial performance. This is a high-visibility leadership opportunity for a driven professional ready to shape strategy and influence company-wide success.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced estimating leader ready to make an impact at one of the region’s premier electrical contractors, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit your resume and references to [email protected].
Preferred Electric is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
Pay: $140,000.00 - $210,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- electrical estimating: 10 years (Required)
- Construction estimating: 10 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Bloomingdale, IL 60108 (Required)
Work Location: In person
