Chief Estimator - Mechanical (HVAC & Piping)

Chief Estimator – Mechanical (HVAC & Piping) Location: Bellingham, Washington
Confidential Opportunity
Compensation Range: $110,000 – $165,000 base + bonus

A leading mechanical HVAC contractor is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead HVAC and piping estimating operations in Bellingham, WA . This senior-level role oversees mechanical estimating strategy, preconstruction leadership, and team development for complex commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects.

This position is ideal for a seasoned mechanical estimator, senior estimator, or estimating manager ready to step into a Chief Estimator role with regional influence.

Key Responsibilities Mechanical Estimating Leadership

• Lead HVAC and piping estimating for commercial and industrial mechanical construction projects
• Develop standardized estimating procedures, pricing models, and bid strategies
• Analyze historical cost data and market conditions to improve estimate accuracy
• Oversee estimating databases, bid management systems, and cost history tools
• Lead pre-bid meetings, go/no-go decisions, and pricing strategy sessions

Preconstruction & Bid Management

• Prepare and/or oversee detailed mechanical estimates using Trimble estimating software
• Coordinate with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers for HVAC and piping pricing
• Review final estimate packages for completeness, accuracy, and risk exposure
• Participate in scope reviews, page turns, and project turnover meetings
• Support proposal development, scope letters, and value engineering efforts

Estimating Team Management

• Manage, mentor, and develop a mechanical estimating team
• Support recruiting, onboarding, and training of HVAC estimators
• Establish performance metrics and accountability within the estimating department
• Promote a strong safety-first culture during preconstruction planning

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with project management, operations, and executive leadership
• Support client presentations, interviews, and contract negotiations
• Lead estimating-to-operations handoff and pre-planning efforts
• Assist with change order pricing and contract reviews as needed
• Build long-term relationships with clients, engineers, and trade partners

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of mechanical HVAC and piping estimating experience
• 10+ years of experience with construction contracts, preconstruction, and estimating strategy
• Extensive experience with Trimble estimating and takeoff software
• 5+ years of experience leading or mentoring mechanical estimating teams
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills

Why This Chief Estimator Role

• Senior leadership role with direct influence on mechanical construction bidding strategy
• Opportunity to lead estimating for large-scale HVAC and piping projects
• Stable, well-capitalized mechanical contractor with long-term growth
• Collaborative culture with strong operational support
• Based in Bellingham, WA , serving the Pacific Northwest market

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $110,000 – $165,000 + bonus
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off, holidays, and parental leave
• Short-term incentive plan