Position Summary : Electrical and Lighting Estimator (Residential Projects)
Lightworks, a premier design/build firm specializing in residential electrical and home technology solutions in Southern California, is seeking a skilled Electrical & Lighting Estimator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in estimating residential electrical projects, with a comprehensive understanding of NEC in a residential capacity, Understand California’s Title 24 energy efficiency standards as they relate to residential projects. Ideally along with an understanding of local city code particulars. This role involves accurately estimating project costs, preparing competitive bids, and collaborating with internal teams to deliver tailored solutions that enhance our clients’ lifestyles.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Project Estimation
- Review project specifications, drawings, and scopes to determine electrical requirements, ensuring compliance with Title 24 regulations.
- Perform detailed take-offs of electrical and lighting materials, equipment, and labor for residential projects.
- Develop and calculate accurate cost estimates, including materials, labor, permits, and other related expenses.
2. Proposal Preparation
- Prepare and submit timely, competitive bid proposals in line with client requirements and Title 24 standards.
- Draft comprehensive bid documents, including pricing breakdowns and terms.
- Identify potential project risks or challenges and incorporate effective solutions into estimates.
3. Collaboration and Communication
- Work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to gather necessary project details.
- Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain accurate pricing for materials and services.
- Communicate effectively with clients to clarify project requirements and address concerns, particularly regarding compliance with Title 24 energy standards.
4. Regulatory and Code Compliance
- Stay updated on National, California, and local city residential building codes, Title 24 energy efficiency regulations, and safety standards.
- Ensure all estimates comply with state regulations, customer specifications, and energy efficiency requirements.
5. Cost Management and Analysis
- Analyze historical project data to refine estimating methods and improve accuracy.
- Provide value engineering recommendations to optimize costs without compromising quality, code or Title 24 compliance.
6. Software and Tools
- Utilize estimating software, such as Bluebeam, or similar platforms, to prepare bids.
- Willingness to learn other software programs as needed.
- Maintain a database of costs, materials, labor rates, and Title 24-specific requirements to support future estimates.
Qualifications
Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of experience as an electrical & lighting estimator, focusing on residential projects and comprehensive understanding of NEC in a residential capacity.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent; additional technical training or a degree in electrical engineering, construction management, or a related field is preferred.
Technical Skills:
- Strong understanding of residential electrical systems, components, installation methods, and Title 24 energy standards.
- Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Knowledge:
- In-depth knowledge of California-specific building codes, the NEC and Title 24 regulations, safety standards, and permit requirements.
- Understanding of labor costs and subcontractor markets in California.
Other Requirements:
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
Working Conditions
- Primarily office-based with occasional site visits to review project scope and conditions.
- May require travel within the Greater San Diego Area to meet with clients or attend pre-bid meetings.
- Flexible work hours to meet bid deadlines.
We’re proud of the professional, fun and exciting working atmosphere we’ve created at Lightworks and we believe it’s one of the best places to work in the residential electrical and technology industries.
Regardless of the role, everyone who works at Lightworks shares the following values:
1: Sweep the floors - Never be too big to do the small things that make a difference. Stay Grounded, Clean the job site after every visit. Everyone needs to contribute. Including the programmer.
2: If you stand still everyone will pass you buy - Look for ways to constantly improve. Test yourself, This is an ever-changing business. Strive to learn and master the next level.
3: Participate with purpose – Mastering your current role is just part of the equation for success. You can still be ineffective if you don’t know what you are trying to achieve as a team. It’s clear that winning teams are all on the same page and this helps form a team from a group of individuals. Understand the shared goals. Don’t be scared to ask.
4: Pass the Ball – Leaders create Leaders, Work on creating leaders throughout the ranks. Take responsibility. Who can you develop?
5: Create a Learning Environment – Leaders are Teachers. Lightworks wants hungry to learn team members who want to learn and develop their skills. However, it’s not your bosses sole responsibility to teach you. Lightworks actively encourages team members to share and mentor each other. Help others improve.
6: No Jerks – Lightworks wants to enhance the team but that doesn’t mean anyone will do. Lightworks is about team first and we look to find individuals who have the right character. You can develop talent; you cannot change character. No jerks ever.
7: Embrace Expectations – Setting personal goals and team targets is part of what drives improvement. Dream Big.
8: Preform Under Pressure – Success happens when preparation meets opportunity. Practice under pressure, know your stuff. Learning and doing lay the foundations for success. Do the work on and off the clock to make the difference.
9: Learn How to Make Decisions under Pressure - Decision making is a tough skill to learn and only develops over time but staying calm when the heat is on is a big step in the right direction. Know your options and back yourself. Do the extra preparation work to make the difference.
10: Know Thyself – The real competition is with yourself when it comes to developing as team member. Be honest about your progress, performance and effort levels if you want to become better. Ask yourself, could I do more? What could I change or do differently?
11: Be a good Ancestor – Plant trees you’ll never see. Speak often of the responsibility to protect and enhance the reputation of team for as long as you choose to wear the Lightworks shirt and to leave it in a better place for the team member who follows you. Its not about personal glory, its about the team. Participate for the name on the front of the shirt.
12: Write your Legacy – This is your time, regardless of what has gone before you there is still history to be made. Build your legacy.
