Sr. Data Center Estimator

AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable connectivity and accessories and provides engineering and installation services for some of the largest telecom customers in the world. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and today we manufacture thousands of products generate an excess of $1B in revenue and employ more than 5800 associates worldwide. At AFL we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We hire and train each individual investing in them to ensure success in their careers. With a commitment to professional development and growth let us connect you to your next career opportunity.

Job Summary

The Senior Data Center Estimator is responsible for evaluating and interpreting customer specifications engineering documentation scope requirements and RFQs for data center construction and infrastructure projects. This role requires strong analytical capabilities the ability to translate complex technical requirements into accurate cost models and the confidence to present information clearly to leadership customers and crossâfunctional partners.

This is a nonâsupervisory leadership role within the Estimating Department contributing heavily to bid development cost strategy and competitive analysis. The Senior Data Center Estimator prepares detailed proposals guides peer estimators and collaborates with Engineering Operations and other internal groups to ensure our offerings are costâeffective accurate and aligned with customer expectations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates and quote packages for data center construction infrastructure and technology projectsincluding electrical mechanical cabling and specialized systems.
• Review customer RFQs drawings specifications and scope documents to determine material engineering equipment subcontractor and labor requirements.
• Develop project budgets including material costs engineering estimates installation labor and overall project pricing models.
• Maintain and update estimating tools cost databases templates and pricing models to ensure accuracy and competitiveness.
• Partner with Engineering to interpret and refine the customers Scope of Work ensuring estimates align with technical and design requirements.
• Provide leadership guidance and subjectâmatter support to other Estimators within the department.
• Identify valueâengineering opportunities and recommend alternatives that meet customer needs while supporting business objectives.
• Communicate with customers to clarify assumptions confirm design intent and ensure complete accurate estimate packages.
• Collaborate with internal departmentsincluding Engineering Operations Supply Chain Accounting and Salesto ensure consistent and accurate proposal submissions.
• Review preliminary engineering specifications and bills of materials for compliance with industry standards data center best practices customer requirements and project scope.
• Assist Accounting and Operations with budget validation cost analysis and project handoff documentation.
• Support Operations in understanding estimating methodologies and installation assumptions.
• Partner with Marketing and Sales to ensure alignment on service pricing positioning and customer communications.

Personal Qualities

• Flexible: Able to adapt quickly to changing conditions customer demands and project requirements.
• Detail Oriented: Demonstrates precision and strong follow-through across all estimating activities.
• Independent: Effectively manages workload with limited supervision while maintaining high standards.
• Analytical / Problem Solving: Capable of advanced reasoning complex cost modeling and solution development.
• Results Focused: Driven to deliver accurate estimates and meet proposal deadlines.
• Strong Interpersonal Skills: Collaborates effectively across teams and communicates clearly at all levels.
• Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-paced environment managing multiple priorities simultaneously.

Qualifications

• BICSI RCDD DCDC CDCDP or equivalent Construction Management or related technical discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in estimating within data centers mission-critical environments electrical/mechanical trades or similar technical fields.
• Must be able to present information and respond to questions from customers leadership and project stakeholders.
• Strong mathematical skills including ability to calculate discounts ratios proportions percentages and labor productivity metrics.
• Ability to interpret complex instructions drawings schedules and technical documentation.
• Must be capable of generating creative and practical solutions related to constructability installation methods and cost efficiency.
• Able to work independently and manage competing priorities.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in MS Excel Word and estimating/engineering tools such as Bluebeam Visio CAD or similar.
• Technical understanding of data center infrastructure power and cooling systems fiber/copper installations and/or telecommunications is required.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment.
• Occasional exposure to construction environments or materials when visiting job sites or suppliers.

Required Experience:

Senior IC