Senior Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

At MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions (“MacMiller”) we make buildings work better. As the Northwest’s leading mechanical contracting firm, we design, deliver and service HVAC, plumbing and automation system solutions for commercial buildings. With our over 1,600 employees across 14 offices, there is a breadth and variety of work to keep you engaged and inspired. 

We enjoy a well-respected history of exceeding our customers’ expectations and executing with distinction. Our clients trust their toughest projects with our integrated teams, including: 

• New construction – Engineering, fabrication and installation of mechanical systems for new projects following lean construction practices 
• Special projects – Retrofits and mechanical repairs for existing buildings for new efficiencies 
• Service - scheduled preventative maintenance ensuring tenant comfort, and 24/7 emergency response 
• Building Controls - Control systems, fault detection, energy services and remote monitoring 
• Energy and Sustainable Solutions - Acting as the Prime Contractor, we deliver design-build energy-efficient solutions in the built environment for private and public sector clients

People love to work at MacDonald-Miller, and it’s because we all share the same Core Culture Values:

• Collaboration – Diverse players, one team, a common vision. Collaboration is our foundation and critical to the success of the company. Every team member is valued and brings a diversity of strengths to help us meet our common vision.
• Dedication – We are dedicated to personal and professional excellence. We execute with distinction by doing the right thing and following through on our commitments.
• Safety – Everyone deserves a safe workplace. Safety is more than hardhats and boots, it’s an attitude and the environment we create. Every day, everyone goes home to their families.
• Community – We are proud to be part of MacDonald-Miller. We actively seek to build relationships and know each other as individuals. Together we create an environment that is welcoming, caring, and trusting.
• Innovation – We are committed to continuous, creative problem solving . Innovation is how we stay an industry leader. We always strive to challenge and better ourselves.

• Fun! – Take the work seriously, but never take ourselves too seriously. It’s possible to be both serious professionals and good-natured people you enjoy working with. We strive to be both.

Requirements

Senior Estimator: This Is Where You Come In

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead the development of accurate, competitive, and well-documented estimates for complex projects. This role requires deep expertise in construction estimating, strong knowledge of trade means and methods, and the ability to clearly articulate the strategy and story behind each estimate.

As a senior-level contributor, you will play a key role in shaping bid strategy, mentoring estimators, and partnering closely with operations, engineering, and leadership to drive profitable, well-executed work.

Top Deliverables in Your First Year to Be a Hero Best-in-Class Estimate Development

• Lead the preparation of comprehensive, accurate estimates that fully capture project scope, risk, and opportunity.
• Thoroughly review drawings, specifications, schedules, and contract documents to identify scope gaps, clarifications, and risks.
• Perform site visits and constructability reviews to validate assumptions and pricing.
• Develop detailed takeoffs, pricing models, and cost summaries aligned with company standards.

Strategic Collaboration & Leadership

• Partner closely with project managers, engineers, operations, and trade partners to align estimates with execution strategies.
• Serve as a trusted advisor during preconstruction, providing insight on phasing, labor strategy, logistics, and risk mitigation.
• Confidently present estimates, assumptions, and bid strategies to internal leadership and external stakeholders.
• Support and mentor junior estimators, helping elevate team capability and consistency.

Business Acumen & Market Intelligence

• Apply strong business judgment to evaluate project risk, margin, and competitiveness.
• Stay current on labor trends, material pricing, market conditions, and competitor activity.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative approaches that improve cost, schedule, or constructability.
• Contribute to bid/no-bid decisions and long-term estimating strategy.

Advanced Estimating Process & Tools

• Lead the estimating process from pursuit through turnover, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and accountability.
• Utilize advanced estimating software, databases, and historical cost data to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Ensure all estimates comply with internal policies, quality standards, and industry best practices.
• Continuously improve estimating methodologies, templates, and tools.

Deep Expertise in Trade Means & Methods

• Demonstrate a strong working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and/or specialty construction trades (as applicable).
• Evaluate labor productivity, sequencing, temporary conditions, and installation strategies.
• Identify trade-specific risks and incorporate them appropriately into pricing and contingency planning.
• Collaborate with field and trade professionals to ensure estimates reflect real-world execution.

“Tell the Story” Behind the Estimate

• Clearly articulate the why behind the numbers—assumptions, risks, exclusions, and execution strategy.
• Prepare concise, compelling estimate narratives and executive summaries.
• Translate complex cost data into clear, decision-ready information for leadership and clients.
• Build confidence and alignment through transparency and clarity.

Role & Reporting

The Senior Estimator reports directly to Amy Johnson, Estimating Manager , and is a key member of a highly collaborative, high-impact team supporting a wide range of projects. This is a highly visible role that works across departments and interacts regularly with leadership.

Your Background: What Kind of Person Will Thrive in This Role? You Should Have:

• 8+ years of experience in construction estimating (senior-level experience preferred).
• Proven success estimating complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Deep knowledge of construction trade means and methods.
• Strong proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and cost databases.
• Experience reviewing contracts, scopes, and technical documents.
• Ability to lead pursuits and support bid strategy discussions.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (preferred but not required with equivalent experience).

Your Colleagues Will Describe You As:

• A professional who takes full ownership of estimates from start to finish.
• Exceptionally reliable, detail-oriented, and accountable.
• Calm, confident, and credible under deadline pressure.
• A mentor and team player who raises the bar for those around you.
• Passionate about quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

You Are Motivated By:

• Owning your work and being trusted to make high-impact decisions.
• Thriving in a fast-paced, results-driven environment without micromanagement.
• Playing a key role in winning work and setting projects up for success.
• Working in a transparent, collaborative, and supportive culture that values people, growth, and innovation.

Benefits

Compensation: $132,000 to $172,000 Annually

MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions presently provides employee coverage for:

• Medical, dental, vision for employees (coverage available for dependents for shared premium).
• 401k retirement plan including Company matching.
• Vacation and Sick Compensation (PTO), and Holiday Pay!
• Disability income protection including short term and long-term disability.
• Employee and dependent life insurance.
• Wellness Program.
• Employee Assistance Program.

Where you will work

Our Seattle HQ office (17930 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188) has easy access to the SeaTac International Airport, ample secured parking, and newly renovated office facilities - not to mention great views! Neighborhood amenities include an onsite deli, restaurants, and convenient freeway/airport access.

Interested in learning more?

If you’re ready for an adventure and are interested in being considered for this role, click apply to start the conversation! Or if you know someone who currently works at MacDonald-Miller, reach out to them to get introduced to the team!

MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.