Energy Project Estimator

Overview

Handshake is looking for energy project estimation and solar design professionals to support AI research through flexible, hourly contract work. This is not a traditional job. You'll draw on your hands-on experience with construction cost estimation, architectural plan review, and solar proposal development to evaluate AI-generated content and provide feedback that helps AI better understand energy project estimation workflows and practices.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity that can be done alongside research, teaching, postdoctoral work, or industry employment.

Details

• This project involves independently producing expert-level analytical work and data outputs using the tools and workflows from your professional practice. You will be asked to complete real work tasks — such as building price forecast models or developing PPA documentation — in a structured, project-based format.
• Fully remote with a flexible, asynchronous schedule and no minimum hour requirement; most contributors work approximately 5–20 hours per week when participating in an active project.
• Placement depends on current project needs, with opportunities to be considered for future projects as they become available.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of professional experience in energy project estimation or solar design, in roles such as:

  • Construction Cost Estimator

  • Solar Project Estimator
  • Solar Sales Engineer / Solar Designer
  • Or equivalent roles in the energy industry
• Ability to independently produce work using one or more of the following tools:

  • Bluebeam Revu

  • RSMeans
  • Aurora Solar
• Ability to independently complete workflows such as:

  • Architectural and engineering plan review for build or remodel cost estimation

  • Solar installation customer proposal generation
• Bachelor's degree or higher required
• Strong written communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and asynchronously.