Lead Project Estimator – Power Generation, Energy Infrastructure

NiSource

Lead Project Estimator for Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure projects at NiSource. Delivering accurate cost estimates and collaborating with engineering and project teams for large-capital projects.

Posted 7/9/2026full-timeColumbus • Ohio • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $113,500 - $170,300 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead development of Class 5 through Class 1 estimates in alignment with AACE principles
Prepare total installed cost (TIC) estimates including EPC, owner’s costs, contingency, and escalation
Perform quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings, specifications, and conceptual designs
Develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and indirect costs
Clearly define estimate bases, assumptions, exclusions, and methodologies
Prepare estimate packages that are suitable for governance reviews and investment decisions, including basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions, key risks, and confidence ranges
Support capital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long-term investment strategies
Provide cost inputs to support regulatory filings, rate cases, and investment approvals
Develop estimate ranges and confidence levels aligned to project stage and governance requirements
Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems
Participate in technology selection, site evaluations, and constructability reviews
Monitor and incorporate labor availability and productivity trends, commodity pricing and escalation, equipment and supply chain constraints
Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
10+ years of experience in cost estimating
Minimum 5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects
Proven ability to develop estimates for large-scale capital projects ($100M+)
Strong understanding of: Engineering design development, Construction practices and execution strategies, Procurement and contracting approaches
Proficiency with estimating tools such as: Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, InEight Estimate, Cleopatra, Sage, or similar
Advanced Excel modeling

Benefits

Comp & perks

Health insurance
401(k) matching
Paid time off
Flexible work arrangements
Professional development opportunities

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Cost EstimatingQuantity TakeoffsTotal Installed Cost EstimatesLabor Cost EstimationMaterial Cost EstimationEquipment Cost EstimationSubcontractor Cost EstimationIndirect Cost EstimationEstimate Package PreparationConfidence Level Development

Soft Skills

Presentation SkillsCollaborationAnalytical ThinkingAttention to Detail