Estimator - HVAC

EstimatorThe Estimator is accountable for the accuracy, completeness, defensibility, and profitability of all commercial plumbing estimates produced by the organization. This role functions as a core revenue-generation and margin-protection position, responsible for converting qualified bid opportunities into disciplined, competitive, and executable proposals.Key Responsibilities1. Bid Pipeline Development & GovernanceThe Estimator is accountable for managing a controlled and intentional bid pipeline sourced exclusively from two approved channels and governed by formal bid controls.This includes accountability for:Developing estimates from inbound bid invitations received directly from General Contractors (GCs)Managing negotiated and relationship-based bid opportunitiesProactively identifying bid opportunities through approved sourcing platforms (e.g., PlanHub, AGC sites, public bid portals)Screening all opportunities using documented bid/no-bid criteriaEnforcing capacity, backlog, and risk constraints prior to pursuitManaging bid calendars, deadlines, addenda, and final submission timingCoordinating pursuit strategy and prioritization with the VP of Sales & Marketing2. Estimating & Bid DevelopmentThe Estimator is accountable for producing complete, defensible, and market-aligned estimates.This includes accountability for:Performing detailed quantity takeoffs for all commercial plumbing systemsDeveloping labor projections using standardized productivity assumptionsPricing materials, fixtures, equipment, and subcontracted work using current supplier dataAccounting for escalation, phasing, access constraints, and schedule impactsIdentifying and documenting scope gaps, exclusions, clarifications, and assumptionsPreparing bid proposals, scope letters, and qualifications in approved formats3. Pricing, Margin & Market Risk ManagementThe Estimator is accountable for protecting margin in dynamic market conditions.This includes accountability for:Maintaining current price books, supplier data, and labor modifiersIncorporating material volatility, labor availability, and escalation risk into estimatesValidating estimates against historical job cost and profitability dataApplying approved overhead, labor burden, and profit targetsEscalating abnormal market conditions to Sales leadership4. Sales Alignment & Pre-Bid SupportThe Estimator is accountable for collaborating in a disciplined manner with Sales leadership and external stakeholders.This includes accountability for:Participating in bid/no-bid and pricing strategy discussionsResponding to GC inquiries, addenda, and clarification requestsSupporting value engineering efforts without compromising margin or scopeEnsuring all pre-award commitments are documented and approved5. Project Handoff to OperationsThe Estimator is accountable for a formal, standardized transition of awarded projects.This includes accountability for delivering a complete handoff package consisting of:Final estimate summaryLabor budgets and productivity assumptionsMaterial pricing assumptions and supplier commitmentsExclusions, clarifications, and scope qualificationsDocumented risk items and constraintsQualificationsExperienceMinimum 8 years of commercial Plumbing or HVAC experience, including estimatingDemonstrated success in estimating complex commercial construction projectsKnowledgeCommercial Plumbing systems, HVAC systems, and construction means and methodsJob costing, labor productivity, and market pricing dynamicsCompetitive, negotiated, and alternative delivery bid environmentsSkillsHigh analytical rigor and attention to detailIndependent judgment under deadline pressureClear written and verbal communicationAbility to enforce discipline without positional authority$90,000 - $110,000 a year