Manager, Project Estimating – Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure
NiSource
Manager, Project Estimating – Power Generation & Energy Infrastructure
NiSource
Utility company delivering gas and electricity
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 deliveringsafe, reliable, and sustainable energyto the communities we serve. We are seeking a Lead Project Estimatorto support the development and execution ofmajor capital power and energy infrastructure projects.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring that cost estimates areaccurate, 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 reflecttechnical 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
Gridimprovement technologies
Key Responsibilities
Cost Estimating & Analysis
Lead development ofClass 5 through Class 1 estimatesin alignment with AACE principles
Preparetotal 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
Supportcapital planning, integrated resource planning (IRP), and long-term investment strategies
Provide cost inputs to supportregulatory 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 supportleast-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 intechnologyselection, 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
Leadrisk 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 enhancehistorical 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 supportcontractor bid evaluations and negotiations
Support review ofcontractorchangenoticesand validation of change orders for approval
Interface with EPC contractors, vendors, and consulting partners
Support estimate refinement through project development, contract award, and execution byvalidatingcommercial 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 staffas necessary
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
10+ years of experiencein cost estimating
Minimum5+ years supporting power generation, transmission, or energy infrastructure projects
Proven ability to develop estimates forlarge-scale capital projects ($100M+)
Strong understanding of:
Engineering design development
Construction practices and execution strategies
Procurement and contracting approaches
Proficiencywith estimating tools such as:
Aspen Capital Cost Estimator
InEightEstimate
Cleopatra, Sage, or similar
Advanced Excel modeling
Preferred Qualifications
Experience within aregulated utility environment
Experience estimating:
CCGT or simple cycle generation
Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
Renewable energy and grid infrastructure
Professional certifications such asAACE CCP, PMP, or equivalent
Experience supportingIRP, rate cases, or regulatory filings
Experience inEPC, EPCM, or owner’s project delivery models
Key Competencies
Commitment tosafety and operational excellence
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Clear and effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
Ability to balancedetail-oriented analysis with strategic decision-making
Collaboration and stakeholder alignment
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
Why Join NiSource
Contribute tocritical infrastructure investmentsthat power and connect communities
Support the transition to amore sustainable and resilient energy future
Work onlarge, impactful capital projectsacross a diverse portfolio
Collaborate with experienced professionals in asafety-first, values-driven organization
Success in This Role
In the first 12 months, you will:
Establishconsistent estimating practicesacross assigned projects
Improve estimate accuracy, transparency, and confidence levels
Support successfulregulatory and investment approvals
Build and enhancecost 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 pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.
By applying, you may also be considered for other roles that match your skills and experience.
ADA Accommodations
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at [email protected] or 1-888-640-3320
Safety Statement
Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.
E-Verify
NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law.
Salary Range*:
$133,400.00 - $200,100.00*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.
Posting Start Date:
2026-11-04Posting End Date (if applicable):
NiSource provides natural gas and electric services to about 4 million customers through its utility subsidiaries, Columbia Gas and NIPSCO, across six states. Its main business is delivering energy safely and reliably through local utility networks, managing and maintaining gas pipelines and electric grids, and serving customers with affordable energy. The company differentiates itself by owning and operating essential energy infrastructure and committing to long‑term, steady investments in safety and reliability (about $1.4 billion per year) to meet customer needs for the next 100 years. NiSource also emphasizes community involvement and a large local workforce. The goal is to keep energy safe, dependable, and affordable while expanding and upgrading the energy system to serve customers for the long term.
Explore more opportunities at NiSource