The Project Estimator supports BW Industrial Construction's pre-construction and planning efforts by developing accurate, detailed cost estimates for industrial projects. This role focuses on MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems and requires strong familiarity with CSA (Civil/Structural/Architectural) scopes. The Estimator performs quantity take-offs, analyzes drawings and specifications, prepares scope narratives, and collaborates closely with project teams, vendors, and clients to ensure precise financial planning and well-defined project execution.
This position requires strong technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and clear communication with internal and external stakeholders. The ideal candidate brings experience working for a general contractor, exposure to industrial or EPC-style environments, and the ability to work proactively in a fast-paced, field-supportive organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Review drawings, specifications, and plan documents to develop accurate, competitive cost estimates for industrial projects.
- Perform detailed CSA and MEP quantity takeoffs, including civil/site work, structural steel, architectural finishes, mechanical piping, electrical distribution, and plumbing systems.
- Conduct job walk-downs to verify scope, field conditions, and constraints.
- Coordinate with Project Managers, Engineers, Architects, and subcontractors to ensure estimates reflect project requirements and constructability.
- Apply estimating practices consistent with general contractor workflows, including subcontractor buyout, scope alignment, and bid leveling
- Submit bid proposals with alternates, clarifications, and value-engineering options.
- Resolve bid variances and update takeoffs or assumptions as needed.
- Maintain strong subcontractor and vendor relationships across CSA and MEP trades; negotiate competitive pricing.
- Communicate estimating assumptions and change-order rationale to owners during the bidding phase.
- Maintain organized estimating files, historical pricing, and documentation for audit-ready accuracy.
- Support project handoff by providing clear scope summaries, assumptions, and cost breakdowns to Operations.
- Support business development efforts by preparing conceptual estimates, early cost models, and pricing inputs for proposals and client discussions.
Qualifications
- Some college coursework, trade school or a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field, preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of estimating experience working for a general contractor (required) with proven work in industrial, manufacturing, EPC, or heavy commercial environments.
- Strong proficiency in construction estimating, quantity take-offs, and GC-standard estimating platforms (RSMeans, Bluebeam).
- Demonstrated expertise estimating MEP systems including electrical distribution, switchgear, panels, mechanical piping, ductwork, chilled/cooling water systems, and compressed air systems.
- Ability to interpret and coordinate P&IDs, isometrics, electrical one-lines, mechanical drawings, utility tie-ins, and production line layouts.
- Solid working knowledge of CSA scopes: civil/site work, foundations, structural steel, architectural finishes, and building envelope components.
- Established relationships with subcontractors and suppliers across Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and CSA trades (highly desirable).
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure competitive pricing.
- Exceptional mathematical accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to produce defensible, transparent cost breakdowns.
- Excellent time management skills; able to prioritize multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Must have a clear driving record and be able to pass background check and drug screening.
- Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
