Lead Estimator, Engineering and Construction - job 1 of 2

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. 

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

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
  • Remote based will be considered for the right candidate, but will require at least 1 week per month at Apex Plaza or as needed

At Apex Clean Energy, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and success. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if you do not meet every qualification listed in the job description. Your unique experiences and skills could be the perfect fit for our team!

If you are passionate about renewable energy and want to join us in accelerating the shift to clean energy, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application for our team’s review!

Work Environment:

Works primarily traditional office hours in an indoor office environment. Flexible work hours allowed when work duties and business operations permit. The successful candidate will also travel to jobsites on a quarterly basis or as needed and should expect extended work hours while on site.

How You’ll Grow

At Apex Clean Energy, our professional development plans focus on helping people at every level of their career to identify and use their strengths to do their best work every day. From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there’s always room to learn. We offer opportunities to help sharpen skills in addition to hands-on experience in the dynamic, fast-paced renewable energy industry. From on-the-job learning experiences to a robust multi-week onboarding experience to formal development programs, our professionals have a variety of opportunities to continue to grow throughout their career.

What Apex Can Offer You

At Apex Clean Energy, we know that great people make a great company. We value our people and offer employees a broad, best-in-class range of benefits.

• A mission-driven, energetic environment that supports and encourages our people to do their best work every day.
• A respect for and celebration of individuality, differences, and uniqueness
• Collaborative and driven professional workforce committed to supporting your ideas and feedback and accelerating your potential
• Ongoing support and guidance such as on-the-job learning, hands-on experience, and mentorship
• Training, strategies, and tools to support your personal and professional growth
• Team atmosphere of diverse professionals committed to making an impact as an organization
• Opportunities to volunteer and give back to our local communities
• Exceptional benefits such as medical and dental; 401(k) with corporate match
• Base and bonus commensurate with experience
• Responsible Paid Time Off plus standard company holidays
• Benefits Offered: comprehensive high-deductible health plans, dental and vision insurance plans, short-term and long-term disability, group life insurance, 401(k) corporate matching, flexible spending arrangements, company paid parking and cell phone, fitness and wellness corporate discounts

At this time, Apex will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position.

Apex Clean Energy, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.