Utility Estimator – Distribution, Transmission & Substation
Location: Washington, DC (Client Site – Penn Quarter)
Job Type: Full-Time
About Us
CARIAN is a purpose-driven, woman-owned consulting and advisory firm dedicated exclusively to the power sector. We partner with leading electric and gas utilities to provide strategic advisory and disciplined execution across program management, business intelligence, and field execution oversight. Guided by integrity, trust, excellence, and accountability, our team helps deliver complex capital programs and build the resilient energy infrastructure that communities depend on.
Position Overview
CARIAN is seeking a Utility Estimator to support cost estimating and controls across major electric utility capital programs. The ideal candidate brings strong experience developing and validating estimates for distribution, transmission, and substation work and is comfortable working in a fast-paced, client-embedded environment.
All positions require a minimum of three days per week on-site at the client or CARIAN office, frequent visits to active job sites, and may require full five-day on-site presence based on program needs.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and review cost estimates for utility capital projects
Support estimate validation and benchmarking
Coordinate with engineering and construction teams
Track estimate accuracy and support cost forecasting
Assist with change order and cost impact analysis
Support program reporting and cost controls
Participate in site visits as required
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related technical field required.
Experience Level: 8+ years of relevant estimating experience
Professional certifications such as AACE CCP/CEP, PMP, or PE are preferred.
Utility T&D estimating experience required
Experience with Exelon-family utilities preferred
Otherwise, Mid-Atlantic / Northeast utility experience preferred
Strong cost modeling and analytical skills
Must be located within the DC, Maryland, or Northern Virginia footprint
Willingness for frequent on-site presence
Why CARIAN
Purpose-driven work – Help deliver infrastructure that powers communities
Industry reputation – Trusted by leading utilities for our reliability and results
Career growth – Opportunities to lead major programs and mentor high-performing teams
Collaborative culture – Join a team that values delivery excellence and long-term relationships
Competitive total rewards – Strong compensation, full benefits, 401(k) match, and meaningful work
Equal Employment Opportunity
CARIAN is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire and develop talent based on qualifications, performance, and business needs. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. As a woman-owned firm dedicated to the power sector, we are committed to building a team that reflects professionalism, expertise, and integrity at every level.
Compensation
The base salary range for this role is $110,000 – $150,000 annually. This range represents a good-faith estimate at the time of posting; actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and other factors permitted by law. In addition to base salary, the role includes eligibility for bonus incentives, a comprehensive benefits package, and a company 401(k) match.