How Do I Become an Electrical Estimator?
There are a number of paths which people can pursue to become an electrical estimator. Estimators are costing professionals: They take the parameters of a job and determine how much it should cost, given information about the job, the supplies needed, the costs of labor, and so forth. People can approach careers as electrical estimators from many perspectives.
One way to become an electrical estimator is to pursue a degree in electrical engineering and work for a firm which does electrical work, such as an architecture firm, an electrical design company, or a similar company. With some on the job experience, an electrical engineer can become familiar with costing, and can work as an estimator. Companies looking for potential electrical estimators may specifically seek out qualified electrical engineers, and someone who opts to become an electrical estimator this way can also become a supervisor, training other estimators who work for the company.
An experienced electrician can also work as an electrical estimator. Electricians are familiar with the details of work on the ground, including the length of time it takes to do different kinds of jobs, costs which can crop up, and so forth. A company may retain an experienced electrician as an electrical estimator, or an electrician can work as a freelance electrical estimator. Someone who decides to become an electrical estimator this way has two trades to rely upon for income; estimating and working as an electrician.
Another option is to train through experience, without any formal qualifications. Some training as an electrician is strongly recommended, as companies will usually not hire trainee estimators if they are not familiar with the industry. In this case, someone can become an electrical estimator by working for a company which has in-house estimators, learning about how to use the software utilized in the trade and developing experience and skills on the job. This can be a good option for people who want to be able to start work right away.
Once someone has become an electrical estimator, she or he can often apply for membership in a professional organization of estimators. Belonging to a professional organization provides people with networking opportunities, access to the latest techniques and technology, and with a certification which can make an estimator more employable. Companies in need of an electrical estimator tend to be more likely to choose someone who belongs to a professional organization, because membership suggests a commitment to quality and integrity.
Written by S.E. Smith
