Principal Mechanical Estimator

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Date: Aug 10, 2026 Location: Overland Park, KS, US Company: Black & Veatch Family of Companies Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success. As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference. Company : Black & Veatch Corporation Opportunity Type : Staff Project Only Hire : No Why Black & Veatch? At Black & Veatch, you’ll be part of work that matters—designing, creating, and building the infrastructure communities rely on every day, from concept through execution. We care about how the work gets done as much as what we build. Safety is built into every decision, and people look out for each other—speaking up, collaborating, and doing the right thing because it affects real lives. You’ll work alongside teams solving complex challenges and turning ideas into solutions that perform in the real world—gaining hands‑on experience across projects, technologies, and disciplines. Ownership shows up in how we work. We take responsibility for outcomes, follow through on commitments, and take pride in what we deliver. As a 100% employee-owned company, employees share in the long‑term success we build together. With flexible ways of working and meaningful development opportunities, you’ll build a career you can be proud to stand behind. Why Black & Veatch Join the Black & Veatch Construction team and build with pride . As a 100% employee-owned company, every role matters — you own your work, your impact, and your future. We lead with care , and safety is non‑negotiable and embedded into every role, site and decision , ensuring our teams return home safe, every day. From field engineering to project management to quality and startup, you’ll work with cutting‑edge technology, learn from seasoned experts, and grow through real‑world, hands‑on experience. With a strong backlog across power, water, grid, and industrial markets, you’ll have the stability to grow and the opportunity to shape what comes next. Job Summary The Principal Mechanical Estimator directs and oversees the preparation of lump sum, unit rate, and cost‑plus estimates, from preliminary cost analysis through detailed definitive estimates, supporting proposals, project controls, and change order management. Leads pre‑construction activities and coordinates estimating efforts across project phases. Key Responsibilities Delegates technical and administrative responsibilities to subordinates Retains primary accountability for compliance in each area Reviews the status of personnel assigned to them relative to technical, administrative and training requirements Other administrative, supervisory and technical duties as assigned Prepares cost estimates on proposals, projects and studies and ensure that the content of the estimate is complete, accurate and meets the requirements of the estimate or project plan Plans, coordinates, reviews, verifies and analyzes all aspects of estimates and estimate presentation Maintains the Company estimating database Provides technical advice and assistance to the Project Manager in the preparation of all levels of estimates ranging in scope and complexity from a simple factored or curve type analysis estimate to an extremely complex multi‑billion dollar lump sum bid Appraises overall accuracy of estimates and recommends contingencies for estimates such as Lump Sum bids, Defined Estimates and Interim Control Estimates Ensures the orderly flow of project assignments through his area in keeping with schedules and within manpower budgets Assists Estimating leadership with an independent assessment of an estimate's accuracy (upon completion of the estimate and summarization of all detailed man-hours, material, construction and home office costs) Recommends detailed estimating procedures and techniques to be utilized in the development of the estimate Assists in planning and development of the necessary formal training programs to maintain and improve estimating techniques, procedures and capabilities for both new and experienced personnel Maintains familiarity with estimating and cost engineering developments and activities outside the company and assesses their significance, suggesting application to company business where warranted Identifies and assesses improvement opportunities which will add value Proactively supports, encourages and facilitates staff to engage in continuous improvement activities, while championing change management efforts Pre‑Construction Activities Perform Scope Review focusing on: Project Objectives Deliverables Overall Project Requirements Perform Site Investigation analysis Coordinate the Pre‑Construction/Estimating team(s) in developing preliminary Work Packages Work with Project Controls and the Project Execution Team to develop the Project P6 Schedule Participate in all Constructability reviews During the Scope Review and the work Package development, identify and communicate any Value Engineering opportunities for consideration by the Project Execution team During the Development of Project Work Packages perform a risk assessment and participate in mitigation strategy discussions Participate in Preliminary EHS planning sessions focusing on site specific considerations Participate in Site Logistic conversations and provide input as to what effect this may have on Construction Participate in the initial and subsequent, discussion surrounding the QAQC program and the effects on Construction it may have Management Responsibilities Supervises work of others. Responsible for hiring, discipline, and pay administration of their subordinates. Minimum Qualifications 10+ years of relevant experience, including estimating experience Leadership experience with management interactions Thorough understanding of the construction estimating process All applicants must be able to complete pre‑employment onboarding requirements (if selected) which may include any/all of the following: criminal/civil background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle records search, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations. Preferred Qualifications BS or MS graduate in Construction Management or related field is preferred Field experience (5+ yrs) Project experience (5+ yrs) Cost control and scheduling exposure is a plus Change management, process optimization, and/or technology implementation initiatives experience preferred Preferred Skills: Ability to manage complex estimates (e.g., in size, scope or organization, multinational joint ventures) Development of subordinates Mathematical skills Problem-solving Analytical skills Function in an international joint environment Interpret and understand specifications and contracts Microsoft Office 365 Verbal and written communication skills Interpersonal communication skills Certifications Work Environment/Physical Demands Typical office environment. Travel as required. Salary Plan Job Grade 018 Black & Veatch endeavors to make accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process because of a disability, please contact the Employee Relations Department at View phone number on click.appcast.io or via our accommodations request form . This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only; you may not use this contact information to inquire about the status of applications. General inquiries about the status of applications will not be returned. Black & Veatch is committed to being an employer of choice by creating a valuable work experience that keeps our people engaged, productive, safe and healthy. Our comprehensive benefits portfolio is a key component of this commitment and offers an array of health care benefits including but not limited to medical, dental and vision insurances along with disability and a robust wellness program. To support a healthy work-life balance, we offer flexible work schedules, paid vacation and holiday time, sick time, and dependent sick time. A variety of additional benefits are available to our professionals, including a company‑matched 401k plan, adoption reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, vendor discounts, an employment referral program, AD&D insurance, pre‑taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan and the B&V Credit Union. Professionals may also be eligible for a performance‑based bonus program. We are proud to be a 100 percent ESOP‑owned company. As employee‑owners, our professionals are empowered to drive not only their personal growth, but the company's long‑term achievements - and they share in the financial rewards of the success through stock ownership. By valuing diverse voices and perspectives, we cultivate an authentically inclusive environment for professionals and are able to provide innovative and effective solutions for clients. BVH, Inc., its subsidiaries and its affiliated companies, complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Black & Veatch does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status or other status protected by law. Notice to External Search Firms : Black & Veatch does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Black & Veatch Talent Acquisition engages with search firms directly for hiring needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Black & Veatch Corporation