About the PositionOur client is seeking an experienced
Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive estimates for commercial mechanical construction projects from initial plan review through final proposal.
The Estimator will be responsible for detailed quantity takeoffs, labor and material pricing, subcontractor and vendor solicitation, scope analysis, and bid preparation. This role will work closely with estimating leadership, Project Managers, and operations to develop effective bid strategies and ensure a smooth transition from estimating to project execution.
Full mechanical scope experience across
HVAC, plumbing, piping, and sheet metalis preferred, although candidates with strong estimating experience in a single mechanical trade will also be considered.
Key Responsibilities- Review plans, specifications, addenda, schedules, and bid documents to establish the complete mechanical scope.
- Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for HVAC, plumbing, piping, sheet metal, and mechanical equipment.
- Develop labor and material cost estimates, including productivity rates and crew assumptions.
- Solicit, evaluate, and compare vendor, supplier, and subcontractor proposals.
- Review quotes for scope coverage, exclusions, qualifications, and alignment with project requirements.
- Coordinate equipment selections and pricing with manufacturers' representatives.
- Identify scope gaps, conflicts, exclusions, clarifications, alternates, allowances, and other bid risks.
- Prepare bid forms, proposals, cost summaries, and estimate review packages for leadership.
- Identify value-engineering opportunities and potential cost savings.
- Manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting firm bid deadlines.
- Attend job walks, pre-bid meetings, and project-specific site visits as needed.
- Lead estimate turnover meetings with Project Management following project award.
- Support change-order pricing, budget reviews, and post-bid follow-up.
- Maintain organized estimate files, vendor databases, quotes, and bid assumptions.
- Contribute to estimating templates, databases, and process improvements.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, subcontractors, and other trade partners.
Requirements- 5+ years of mechanical estimating experience in commercial construction, including HVAC, plumbing, piping, sheet metal, or related mechanical systems.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent education and experience will be considered.
- Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, schedules, and bid documents.
- Working knowledge of mechanical systems, materials, labor requirements, productivity, and construction sequencing.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Experience with mechanical estimating and takeoff software preferred.
- Knowledge of SMACNA standards and duct fabrication is a plus for sheet metal-focused candidates.
- Field, project management, or skilled-trade experience in mechanical construction is a plus.
- Design-build or design-assist experience is preferred.
Preferred Technology ExperienceExperience with
AutoBid Mechanical, AutoBid SheetMetal, QuoteSoft, Accubid, On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Excel is preferred.
Benefits- $100,000-$130,000 base salary, depending on experience and qualifications
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
- Opportunity to work on complex, high-profile mechanical construction projects
- Strong backlog with an established mechanical contractor
- Professional development opportunities
- Long-term career advancement
- Collaborative culture focused on employee growth and project excellence
