Assistant Estimator

Willdan is a leading, nationwide provider of comprehensive energy and sustainability solutions. The exciting and growing energy sector provides Willdan employees an opportunity to contribute to the clean energy economy. Willdan Performance Engineering, a division of Willdan Group, inspires and empowers communities by creating transformational environments. Our clients include school districts, universities, city, county, and state governments, private enterprises, and healthcare facilities.

The Assistant Estimator supports the preconstruction and estimating team in developing accurate and timely project cost estimates for construction projects. This entry-level role assists with quantity takeoffs, subcontractor outreach, pricing coordination, document management, and basic cost analysis under the guidance of estimators, senior estimators, preconstruction managers, and construction managers. The Assistant Estimator gains exposure to all phases of the estimating process-from conceptual budgeting through detailed construction pricing-while developing foundational knowledge of construction methods, materials, procurement processes, and industry best practices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing project cost estimates across multiple stages of preconstruction, including conceptual, schematic, and construction document phases, while supporting senior estimating staff with pricing and scope development activities.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for labor, materials, and equipment using drawings, specifications, and estimating software while maintaining accurate project records and documentation.
• Support subcontractor and supplier solicitation efforts by distributing bid packages, soliciting subcontractors, tracking responses, collecting pricing information, and assisting with bid leveling activities.
• Maintain and organize project plans, specifications, addenda, cost databases, estimating templates, and historical pricing information to support efficient estimate development and reporting.
• Participate in estimate review meetings, preconstruction discussions, and internal coordination meetings to gain understanding of project scope, constructability considerations, scheduling impacts, and pricing strategies.
• Coordinate with internal teams including engineering, procurement, and project management to gather project information, resolve scope questions, and support estimate accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with budget tracking, cost comparisons, variance analysis, and preparation of estimate documentation for internal review and client presentations while ensuring adherence to company standards, policies, and safety practices.
• Assist in evaluating existing facility conditions and site constraints that may impact project costs, schedules, or implementation strategies.
• Develop a working knowledge of energy performance contracting, utility incentive programs, measurement and verification (M&V) principles, and applicable energy codes and standards to support project development activities.
• Assist in maintaining, updating, and analyzing historical project cost data, subcontractor pricing, and estimate benchmarks to support estimate accuracy, budgeting efforts, and continuous improvement of estimating practices.

Job Requirements / Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field preferred; equivalent education and experience may be considered.
• 0-4 years of experience in construction, estimating, engineering, or a related field; internship experience acceptable.
• Basic understanding of construction drawings, specifications, building systems, construction terminology, and estimating principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel; familiarity with estimating software or construction management platforms preferred.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate professionally across internal teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines and maintaining high-quality work product.
• Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and willingness to learn construction delivery methods, procurement practices, estimating methodologies, and industry best practices.
• Travel is a required component of this role and will be necessary to meet job responsibilities.

EEO Non-Discrimination and ADA Reasonable Accommodation Statement Willdan is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, religious creed, color, age marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, religion, military service or veteran status, disability, medical condition, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic testing, reproductive status or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Willdan does not discriminate on the basis of physical or mental disability where the essential functions of the job can be reasonably accommodated. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us.

Willdan Energy Solutions participates in E-Verify.