Job Title: Chief Estimator - Mechanical/Structural
Company: Loenbro, LLC
Location: Franklin, TN
Reports to: Preconstruction Manager
Employment Type: Full Time
Job Summary The Chief Estimator is responsible for leading and developing a high-performing team of estimators while ensuring the delivery of accurate, competitive, and timely proposals. This role encompasses full estimating and proposal preparation for industrial facilities, including new construction and maintenance projects valued up to $100M. Estimates will span multiple disciplines, including civil, structural, and mechanical work, across energy, mining, power, manufacturing, pulp and paper, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and other industries served by Loenbro. The Chief Estimator drives excellence in execution, accountability in outcomes, and disciplined estimating practices that consistently exceed client expectations.
Essential Job Responsibilities• Provide strategic leadership and oversight to a team of estimators responsible for the development and delivery of accurate, competitive, and timely proposals across all project sizes and disciplines.
• Establish priorities, allocate resources, and ensure alignment of estimating efforts with business objectives, client expectations, and pursuit strategies.
• Direct and validate the interpretation of bid documents, including specifications, drawings, and technical data, ensuring complete and compliant proposal execution.
• Ensure the consistent development of high-quality, full-scope estimates through standardized processes, rigorous review, and disciplined application of best practices.
• Drive the training, mentoring, and professional development of estimating staff, fostering technical competency, consistency, and accountability across the team.
• Champion the use and continuous improvement of historical cost data, production rates, and estimating tools to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and competitiveness.
• Lead estimate reviews and governance processes, ensuring all proposals are defensible, aligned with execution strategies, and reflective of project risks and opportunities.
• Oversee the effective turnover of estimates to Operations, ensuring clarity, completeness, and alignment to support successful project execution.
• Maintain accountability for pricing integrity, including oversight of change order estimates and subcontractor/material procurement strategies.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Business Development, and leadership to align estimating strategies with market conditions and client objectives.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, including win/loss metrics and estimate accuracy, implementing continuous improvements to strengthen organizational performance.
• Lead the development and standardization of estimating systems, cost structures, and processes to ensure scalability and consistency across the organization.
• Build, scale, and develop the estimating organization in alignment with company growth, ensuring the team is equipped to meet increasing demand and complexity.
• Promote a culture of leadership, accountability, discipline, and excellence consistent with Loenbro's LEAD values.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by the Preconstruction Manager in support of strategic and operational objectives.
Minimum QualificationsRequired:
• 5+ years of experience in heavy industrial/process facility estimating and cost control across civil, structural, mechanical, or piping disciplines.
• Strong knowledge of estimating techniques, engineering disciplines, and cost control practices, with the ability to estimate projects of varying size and complexity.
• Proven ability to prepare comprehensive and complex proposals with minimal supervision.
• Working knowledge of the industries served by Loenbro.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency across industry-standard estimating, scheduling, and ERP platforms, including systems comparable to HeavyBid, Primavera P6, and Viewpoint.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and perform effectively under tight deadlines and demanding workloads.
• Willingness to travel periodically to job sites as required.
• OSHA certification or equivalent safety training.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
Potential Hazards:• Potential exposure to extreme cold and hot temperatures
• Exposure to manufacturing, pipeline, and refining environment
• Exposure to noise above 85 decibels and intense odors
• Exposure to areas with limited visibility
Physical Demands and Work EnvironmentThe physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment: - Comply with all company policies and procedures.
- Occasionally you may need to kneel, reach, or stoop.
- If driving is required, valid driver license and proof of insurability are required. All drivers are subject to a DMV background records search.
This role requires compliance with all applicable safety regulations, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and Loenbro's Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) policies.
BenefitsLoenbro offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and rewards to those who join our team:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
• Life and disability insurance
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
Benefits eligibility may vary based on employment classification and hours worked.
