Chief Estimator

Company Description

Apex Clean Energy was founded with a singular focus: to accelerate the shift to clean energy. Through origination, construction, and operation of utility-scale wind, solar, and storage facilities, distributed energy resources, and green fuel technologies, Apex is expanding the renewable frontier across North America. Our mission-driven team of more than 400 professionals uses a data-focused approach and an unrivaled portfolio of projects to create solutions for the world’s most innovative and forward-thinking customers. For more information about how Apex is building the energy company of the future, visit apexcleanenergy.com.

Apex strives to excel in every phase of project realization, from origination and financing to construction and asset management. Our mission-driven team seeks determined, resolute individuals who strive to innovate and go above the call of duty, and who will relentlessly do their part to help accelerate the shift to America’s clean energy future. 

Job Description

The Director of Estimating for Apex Clean Energy, specializing in renewable energy is responsible for leading the estimating function for utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Engineering and Pre-Construction, this role ensures the delivery of accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates that drive successful project budgets and execution in the renewables sector. The ideal candidate will have industry experience and a tenacity to be a strong leader with a growing company, and a passion for Renewable Energy.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team in preparing detailed cost estimates and bid proposals for EPC renewable energy projects, including solar PV, wind, and battery storage installations.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, project management, procurement, and finance teams to ensure estimates are aligned with technical requirements, project schedules, and company objectives.
• Oversee the review and interpretation of RFPs, project plans, and technical documents to identify all cost components, including site development, permitting, equipment procurement (modules, inverters, turbines, batteries), balance of plant, interconnection, and commissioning.
• Develop and implement standardized estimating procedures, tools, and methodologies tailored to the renewable energy sector, ensuring best practices and compliance with industry standards.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of market trends, equipment pricing, labor rates, and regulatory requirements impacting renewable project costs.
• Manage relationships with EPC contractors, OEMs, suppliers, and vendors to ensure competitive pricing and current market intelligence.
• Support the bid process by preparing comprehensive bid packages, engaging with subcontractors and suppliers, and conducting risk assessments specific to renewable energy projects.
• Analyze and incorporate data on permitting, interconnection, environmental compliance, and land acquisition costs unique to renewables.
• Conduct post-project reviews to compare estimated versus actual costs, driving continuous improvement in estimating accuracy and departmental performance.
• Provide strategic input for development, business development, project feasibility, and proposal development for new markets and technologies.
• Ensure robust document control, compliance with audit requirements, and the secure retention of all estimating records

Qualifications

To succeed as a Director of Estimating at Apex Clean Energy, you’ll need to excel within the following criteria:

• Experience estimating and budgeting for large construction projects (EPC, Vendor, Owner or IPP), with a focus on Renewable Energy Projects.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in an Estimating Department leadership function.
• Strong communication skills and ability to relate to a corporate office environment as well as construction job sites.
• The successful candidate will have a passion for Renewable Energy Projects, a strong leadership presence and caring attitude for people, and an ability to deliver results.
• Deep knowledge of renewable energy project development, construction, and estimating practices, including permitting, interconnection, and regulatory processes.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
• Proficiency in industry-standard estimating and project management software
• Familiarity with EPC contract structures in the renewable energy sector
• Job site visits on a quarterly basis or as needed to support the business
• Position will be full time based at Apex Plaza in Charlottesville VA