Estimator / Procurement Specialist

Job Description

The Estimator & Procurement Specialist will support the design, engineering, and execution of utility-scale solar solar and battery energy storage projects in North America. This role plays a key part in both project delivery and business development, contributing to price optimization and development of procurement strategies for all stages of project construction. The Specialist will work closely with internal engineering, construction, procurement, and business development teams, as well as external partners including consultants, suppliers, and subcontractors.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for developing estimating and procurement strategies.
• Lead procurement for major project categories: civil works, structural (racking), modules, electrical (DC, AC, medium and high voltage), inverters, transformers, installation activities, and site facilities.
• Develop and implement project-specific procurement strategies in coordination with business development, finance, engineering, O&M and execution teams.
• Initiate procurement processes, issuing scope documentation including RFPs/RFQs, evaluating bids, negotiating commercial terms, and resolving procurement/logistical challenges.
• Manage supplier performance and qualification.
• Develop and maintain master supplier data, including price lists, lead times, and vendor contacts.
• Ensure compliance with procurement procedures, insurance requirements, warranty terms, lien waivers, documentation standards, and delivery obligations.
• Oversee project logistics planning and execution.
• Support the further refinement and implementation of procurement procedures, processes, and operational tools.
• Act as a team member and leader in the company's efforts to optimize its systems through adoption of an ERP system.
• Work with engineering and project management to obtain, verify, and validate material take-offs, procurement requirements, shop drawings, and support subcontractor bid evaluations.
• Lead the qualification, selection, and management of subcontractors, consultants, and suppliers, including maintaining approved vendor lists and coordinating deliverables.
• Develop cost estimates and supplier quotations for project proposals.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including standardization of engineering designs, reporting processes, and cost structures.
• Create project-level pricing proposals that can be summarized and presented to management and customers.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in economics, business management, engineering, supply chain, or construction.
• 3–5 years of experience with a general contractor, EPC, or project developer.
• Experience with solar and energy storage development and construction.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Organized, proactive, and able to manage shifting priorities across multiple tasks.
• Ability to travel to project sites and/or supplier/subcontractor locations in Canada and the USA.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and internet tools, with the ability to learn ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Expert negotiation skills, commercial competency, and strong process knowledge.