Commercial HVAC Estimator

Commercial Hvac Estimator / Project Engineer

Bell Brothers has proudly served Des Moines for over 70 years, known for award-winning heating, cooling, and plumbing service. With deep community roots, Bell Brothers is recognized as a leading name across Iowa. Now part of TurnPoint Services, Bell Brothers employees enjoy stability, training, and career mobility across 62 brands. At Bell Brothers, we believe in growing people as much as growing business. Be part of Bell Brothers — where Iowa heritage meets national opportunity.

Bell Brothers is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Commercial HVAC Estimator / Project Engineer to join our growing team. This is an estimating-driven role with a primary focus on preparing accurate, competitive bids for commercial HVAC projects. You'll also play an important role in vendor pricing, purchasing, buyout support, and assisting Project Managers with project-engineering needs.

If you have a strong understanding of commercial HVAC systems, enjoy analyzing plans and specifications, and know how to put together competitive estimates that protect project profitability, we want to hear from you!

What You'll Do

Estimating & Bid Preparation

• Manage commercial HVAC bids from initial invitation through final submission.
• Review blueprints, specifications, addenda, bid forms, schedules, and project requirements.
• Perform detailed material and equipment takeoffs and develop accurate labor estimates.
• Price materials, equipment, subcontractors, rentals, permits, freight, taxes, and other project costs.
• Identify project risks, scope gaps, exclusions, and opportunities before bid submission.
• Prepare detailed estimates, bid proposals, scope sheets, clarifications, and alternates.
• Maintain organized bid documentation and communicate pricing strategy and potential concerns to leadership.

Vendor Pricing & Buyout Support

• Solicit competitive pricing from vendors and subcontractors.
• Compare and level quotes to ensure accurate scope coverage and the best overall value.
• Build strong supplier relationships and stay informed on material costs, equipment pricing, and lead times.
• Assist Project Managers with final pricing, purchasing, substitutions, and buyout after projects are awarded.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while protecting project scope and profitability.

Project Engineering Support

• Provide organized estimate handoffs to Project Managers, including labor hours, vendor quotes, cost breakdowns, and project assumptions.
• Assist with RFIs, submittals, change-order pricing, procurement, and additional project takeoffs as needed.
• Help research plan and specification questions and support field teams with project-related information.
• Maintain estimating databases, historical pricing, labor factors, and vendor information.

What You Bring

• 3+ years of commercial HVAC estimating, project engineering, project management, or field experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of commercial HVAC systems, materials, equipment, codes, and construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, contracts, addenda, and project schedules.
• Experience performing detailed takeoffs and developing labor and material estimates.
• Strong vendor communication, purchasing, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to identify scope gaps, evaluate project costs, and develop competitive pricing.
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, estimating software, and Procore or similar project-management software.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
• Excellent communication, attention to detail, and follow-through.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary starting at $65,000 + (depending on experience) , plus bonus opportunities.
• Full-time position.
• Eligible for company benefits.
• Opportunity to make a direct impact on project profitability and the growth of Bell Brothers' commercial HVAC team.

Why Join Bell Brothers?

At Bell Brothers, your estimating expertise helps set projects up for success from the very beginning. You'll work closely with leadership, Project Managers, vendors, and field teams to help secure profitable work, improve purchasing value, and ensure smooth project execution.

Ready to take the next step in your commercial HVAC career? Apply today and join the Bell Brothers team!

• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan with company match; paid parental leave; PTO; company-paid holidays; life and disability insurance; accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage; and access to voluntary benefits such as pet insurance and identity/fraud protection - everything you need to support yourself and your family.

• Real Growth Opportunities: With more than 60+ strong local brands behind you, you'll have the chance to grow your skills, take on new responsibilities, and build a long-term career.

• A Culture with Heart: We lead with teamwork, respect, and integrity. Every voice matters, and every contribution fuels our shared success.

• Purpose-Driven Work: Every role — in the field, office, or leadership — makes a real impact by helping families and communities stay safe and comfortable.

• Competitive Rewards: Strong pay, solid benefits, and recognition programs designed to celebrate craftsmanship, commitment, and exceptional performance.

• Clear Career Paths: From apprentice and entry-level roles to expert technicians, office leaders, and GMs — you'll always know where you can grow next.

• Training & Development: Hands-on technical instruction, leadership pathways, and continuous learning through our Apprenticeship Academy and brand-level coaching.

• Modern Tools & Technology: Advanced diagnostics, digital tools, and quality equipment that help you work safer, smarter, and more efficiently.

• Safety First: A safety-first mindset built into every process so you go home safely every day.

• Inclusive & Supportive Environment: We welcome all backgrounds and empower every employee to bring their best.

• Stable & Reliable: The strength of a national platform with the trust of long-standing local brands means your career is secure and supported.

• Community Impact: Your work strengthens local neighborhoods and supports families in meaningful, practical ways.

EEO Statement

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.