Director of Estimation

The Director of Estimation is a critical leadership role that oversees the estimation process for outside plant construction and last mile drops and installs for National OnDemand. This position engages with Business Development, Contracts, Finance and Operations teams to deliver complete and timely proposals and financial analysis.

• Lead the estimation of outside plant fiber construction and last mile drops and installs projects nationwide, preparing detailed proposals for various contract types including time and material, lump sum, unit-based, and storm/maintenance work.
• Identify subcontractors and vendors, compile estimates, schedules and present proposals to Sr Management, and drive internal timelines to achieve successful bid delivery.
• Perform project take-offs and submit itemized quote requests to subcontractors and material vendors where applicable in coordination with Contracts and Business Partner team.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, conduct site visits/job walk-outs, and facilitate owner meetings to capture project requirements and ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Support Operations in determining labor and equipment requirements to complete the project within the proposed schedule.
• Write persuasive winning bid proposals which meet the customer's requirements and highlight the business's value proposition. Create a bill of materials, and rate card required to complete the project, if applicable.
• Capture target price, cost, and margin assumptions and perform profitability and sensitivity analysis within proforma financials.
• Outline high-level preliminary schedules which adhere to the proposed schedule and highlight the milestones that need to be completed throughout the duration of the project.
• Coordinate with Contracts Manager to understand contract risk and determine proposed redlines. Ensure all estimation activities comply with company safety and regulatory standards.
• Conduct post-bid meetings and negotiations/scope review meetings. Once construction documents are released, work with Owners and Engineers to formulate accurate and complete budgets and hand-off to Operations and Project Managers.
• Lead adoption of new technologies and best practices in estimation and project planning.
• Monitor and report on bid success rates and team performance metrics.
• Build out a geographic database that includes all subcontractors and in-house resources with correlated pricing for all types of work performed in that area.
• Develop and maintain standardized processes for estimate review and quality assurance.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with vendors and subcontractors.
• Work with National OnDemand to support new business opportunities.
• Demonstrates a commitment to outstanding customer service to National's Operations team.
• Develop talent within the Estimation organization to promote individual development and career growth. Build and enhance a strong team that provides proactive support to meet the current and future needs of the business.
• Monitors and assesses current trends and emerging developments within the Telecommunications industry to ensure the Company's compliance and preparedness.
• Remains abreast of best practices and trends relevant to Fiber/Network Construction and Design technologies.
• Perform related duties & responsibilities as assigned/requested.

• 10 or more years of experience in related field (i.e., Fiber Telecommunications, Wireless and Tower, and Power Construction)
• Deep knowledge of OSP technical build requirements related to various build methods and functions (underground: plow, directional bore, trench, aerial, splicing, etc)
• Knowledge of best practices related to contract risk management, subcontractor recruitment, and material procurement.
• Experience with industry-standard estimating and design software (Procore, etc)
• Knowledge of current and emerging trends and developments within the construction field and corresponding impact on business operations.
• Proven ability to adjust quickly to shifting priorities, multiple demands, ambiguity and rapid change.
• Preferred: 10+ years of management and leadership experience at the director and/or executive levels developing Network upgrade and build strategies in a telecommunications business environment preferred.
• Experience and knowledge with Microsoft office products.

While performing job duties, the employee is required to:

• Office setting for some duties.
• Occasional outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Exposure to dust, temperature fluctuations, and periodic high noise levels.
• Up to 25% travel within the United States.
• Possibility of staying away from home for up to 10 days at a time.

The physical demands for this job include:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Regular use of hands and fingers for handling objects, tools, and controls.
• Reaching with hands and arms.
• Frequent standing, talking, and hearing.

Direct reports:

• Estimator

• Exhibits exceptional attention to detail, is well organized and possesses strong writing skills as needed to complete and submit competitive bid proposals.
• Leadership and strategic management skills to develop, coach, and direct the performance of a team to achieve goals and objectives.
• Proven leadership and teamwork skills fostering an inclusive, supportive environment by motivating and developing staff at all levels.
• Skills and ability to clearly and concisely communicate verbally and in writing to convey complex concepts clearly and logically.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills, including the capacity to identify, assess and prioritize competing interests and needs.
• Preferred: BS/BA degree in related discipline strongly desired (i.e. Business, Engineering)