Chief Estimator

Position Summary The Chief Mechanical Estimator leads and manages the estimating department, overseeing the development of detailed cost structures, comprehensive bid quotations, and final bid packages. This role requires an expert-level mechanical construction professional who establishes estimating standards, evaluates risk, secures competitive vendor pricing, and delivers winning bid strategies. Work Location This is a 100% on-site position based at our main office, requiring regular local travel for field walk-throughs, site visits, and client meetings across NYC and Northern NJ. Essential Duties And Responsibilities Department Leadership: Lead, mentor, and supervise estimating personnel and project management staff during the pre-construction phase. Strategic Bid Management: Oversee the entire bidding process from initial screening to final submission, ensuring accuracy and competitive alignment. Advanced Cost Analysis: Analyze complex blueprints, specifications, and project scope documents to generate precise time, material, labor, and equipment estimates. Executive Collaboration: Present comprehensive estimates, margin analyses, and risk assessments to executive management for final bid approval. Value Engineering: Partner with engineers, architects, owners, and general contractors to propose conceptual budgets, design-build strategies, and cost-saving alternatives Vendor & Subcontractor Procurement Leverage and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, equipment vendors, and subcontractors to secure optimal pricing. Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate closely with the Engineering and Project Management departments to ensure seamless project handovers and review change-order pricing. Data Management: Modernize and maintain historical cost databases, computerized take-off systems, and standardized estimating templates. Market Representation: Attend high-level pre-bid meetings, site walk-throughs, and scope clarification interviews with major clients and General Contractors. Compliance: Ensure all department workflows comply with company operating policies, safety standards, and regional municipal guidelines. Qualifications Industry Expertise: Extensive hands-on background in commercial HVAC and mechanical piping systems within the NYC and Northern NJ markets Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of commercial construction regulations, local building codes (NYC/NJ), labor laws, and complex contract documentation. Leadership Capabilities: Proven track record of managing, training, and developing a team of estimators or project staff. Strategic Skills: Superior analytical, negotiation, communication, financial, and problem-solving capabilities. Education and Experience Requirements Experience: Minimum of 8-10+ years of dedicated mechanical estimating experience, with at least 2-3 years in a senior or supervisory capacity. Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or an equivalent mix of field experience and technical training. Technical and Computer Skills Software Proficiency: Advanced mastery of industry-standard mechanical estimating software (e.g., FastPIPE, Trimble AutoBid/Estimation, QuoteSoft, or McCormick). Digital Take-Off Proficiency with digital on-screen take-off programs and project management software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam Revu) General Tech: High proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, with advanced expertise in Excel for custom financial modeling. Benefits 2 week vacation for qualified employees Company phone Health insurance 401K and 401K Matching Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Job Type: Full-time Benefits Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s) Do you have existing relationships with NYC general contractors/construction managers as well as mechanical vendors and sub contractors? Education Bachelor's (Preferred) Experience Mechanical estimating: 1 year (Preferred) License/Certification Driver's License (Required) Work Location: In person #J-18808-Ljbffr