To become an electrical estimator, you need to work on your education and skills. Electrical estimating requires specialized skill to handle small or large project budgets. A professional electrical estimator is responsible for providing accurate project estimates to prevent budget overruns. They are fully aware of how to read the technical electrical blueprints. On that basis, the cost of labor, materials, and other important things is calculated. However, if you are looking for this detail-oriented career path, this guide is for you!
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Responsibilities of an Electrical Estimator!
Just consider an electrical estimator as the backbone of electrical construction projects. They read and analyze the project plans and determine the exact quantities of materials, labor hours, and equipment needed for electrical installations.
Not only that, but professional Electrical Estimating Services are developed on the basis of the estimator’s predictions. They work closely with all the team members to prevent any misunderstandings. Plus, they make sure to prepare detailed construction takeoffs that include flawless measurements and counting of project components.
On the basis of this takeoff process, the right amount of construction cost is evaluated. However, electrical estimators must understand complex electrical systems.
Essential Skills for Success
Blueprint Analysis
Always keep in mind that the base of your successful projects depends on how you read the blueprints, or do you even understand them or not. Do you have any idea about the technical specs or not? Modern estimators must be aware of analyzing advanced digital CAD files, electrical symbols, circuit layouts, etc.
Electrical Systems Knowledge
You must have a skill of understanding of power distribution systems, lighting design, motor controls, and other systems. This also brings up understanding the local electrical codes that are important for the installation of electrical things.
Estimation Software Proficiency
This modern construction industry demands how efficiently an individual can use advanced estimating software. This is the demand of the job. Various tools like ConEst, TurboBid, Trimble, and others are used to deliver accurate Construction Takeoffs to contractors, builders, and developers.
Analytical and Mathematical Skills
Then comes how skilled one is with calculation. This skill has no margin to be compromised because this is the major requirement of the job. Estimators must perform complex calculations for the required project. The calculations for different electrical components include conduit sizing, wire, material quantities, etc.
Education and Training Requirements
The initial education for electrical estimators requires a high school diploma or equivalent. In addition, the complexity of modern electrical systems requires a good educational background to understand different things in the field.
You can get the following degrees:
- Associate Degrees in Electrical Technology
- Bachelor’s Degrees in electrical engineering, construction management, or business administration
- Get Certificate Programs in the required field
Additionally, get certifications from organizations like
- The American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)
- The Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE).
Career Opportunities
Entry-Level Positions
In entry-level positions, the estimators are offered as estimator assistants or junior estimators. This is a good starting point to work with seniors and polish your skill set. To become an electrical estimator, even if you have to work for free at the start, you must do it.
Mid-Level Advancement
With experience, estimators can handle complex projects and develop client relationships. They can work on bid preparation, vendor management, and project coordination.
Senior-Level Opportunities
Senior electrical estimators have project management roles. They are well-trained to work with big construction companies and understand all the technical and financial aspects of projects.
How to get started in Your Career?
- To become an electrical estimator, begin with the required education as discussed.
- Get internships with electrical contractors, construction companies, or a reliable engineering cost estimating firm.
- Work as a part-time estimator to broaden your skills.
- Build good relationships by joining professional organizations.
- You can also start your work with small contractors and companies.
- From time to time, build your portfolio to attract clients to you.
- You must be aware of applying advanced methods, such as value engineering, to cut project expenses without compromising the project quality.
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Conclusion
Hence, to become an electrical estimator, you have to put in the hours with learning new things and working on technical knowledge. Well, keep in mind that success does not come right away. You have to earn it. In this field, it can take you years to become a successful senior electrical estimator. But the scope is good in this job. You can build a good career in this field. Especially after the growth of the construction industry and advanced methods, the demand for this job is also rising. So work hard with pure dedication.
