Manager, Project Estimating-Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

Manager, Project Cost Estimating – Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure

Location: Columbus, OH / Valparaiso, IN / Project Sites / Hybrid

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

At NiSource, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy to the communities we serve. We are seeking a Lead Project Estimator to support the development and execution of major capital power and energy infrastructure projects .

This role plays a critical part in ensuring that cost estimates are accurate , transparent, and aligned with regulatory expectations , supporting sound investment decisions and long-term planning. The Senior Project Estimator partners across engineering, project development, supply chain, and construction teams to develop estimates that reflect technical scope, market conditions, and execution strategy .

Projects may include:

Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) generation

Simple cycle / peaking generation

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Renewable energy (solar, wind)

Transmission interconnections and substations

Grid improvement technologies

Key Responsibilities

Cost Estimating & Analysis

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

Capital Planning & Regulatory Support

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

Evaluate alternative project configurations and execution strategies to support least-cost, best-fit solutions

Technical Integration & Project Development

Translate engineering scope into cost drivers across major systems, including:

Gas turbines, HRSGs, steam turbines, and balance of plant

Electrical systems, substations, and grid interconnection

Energy storage systems (BESS, inverters, controls)

Participate in technology selection , site evaluations, and constructability reviews

Support project development activities from early-stage screening through execution readiness

Risk, Market Awareness & Benchmarking

Perform cost validation, benchmarking, and estimate reconciliation

Lead risk assessment and contingency development , incorporating uncertainty and market variability

Monitor and incorporate:

Labor availability and productivity trends

Commodity pricing and escalation

Equipment and supply chain constraints

Maintain and enhance historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with engineering, project management, supply chain, finance, and regulatory teams

Present estimates, assumptions, and key cost drivers to leadership and governance teams

Develop Independent Cost Estimates (ICEs) and support contractor bid evaluations and negotiations

Support review of contractor change notices and validation of change orders for approval

Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners

Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution by validating commercial changes, reconciling contractor pricing, and informing forecast updates

Continuous Improvement

Strengthen estimating tools, processes, and data governance

Promote consistency and best practices across the capital portfolio

Mentor and support development of junior estimators and staff as necessary

Required Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

Experience within a regulated utility environment

Experience estimating:

CCGT or simple cycle generation

Battery energy storage systems (BESS)

Renewable energy and grid infrastructure

Professional certifications such as AACE CCP, PMP , or equivalent

Experience supporting IRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings

Experience in EPC, EPCM, or owner’s project delivery models

Key Competencies

Commitment to safety and operational excellence

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Clear and effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders

Ability to balance detail-oriented analysis with strategic decision-making

Collaboration and stakeholder alignment

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Why Join NiSource

Contribute to critical infrastructure investments that power and connect communities

Support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future

Work on large, impactful capital projects across a diverse portfolio

Collaborate with experienced professionals in a safety-first, values-driven organization

Success in This Role

In the first 12 months, you will:

Establish consistent estimating practices across assigned projects

Improve estimate accuracy, transparency, and confidence levels

Support successful regulatory and investment approvals

Build and enhance cost benchmarking tools and data

Strengthen collaboration across development, engineering, and construction teams

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

• Workplace Connection
• We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.

We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

• Equal Employment Opportunity
• NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including