Mechanical Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Step into a key preconstruction role with a leading Southern California union mechanical contractor, shaping large-scale commercial HVAC and plumbing projects across high-profile markets. This is a chance to own complex estimates from concept through bid submission, working closely with an experienced team to deliver technically demanding, high-value mechanical systems. You'll play a central part in winning strategic projects that define the region's healthcare, aerospace, education, entertainment, transportation, and commercial infrastructure.

About the Role:

As Mechanical Estimator - Commercial HVAC & Plumbing, you will be responsible for developing accurate, competitive estimates for major mechanical construction projects throughout California. You will drive the estimating process from initial document review through final proposal, ensuring scope clarity, cost accuracy, and alignment with project objectives. Your work will directly impact bid success, margin performance, and the company's ability to secure and execute complex mechanical contracts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related mechanical construction projects.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, bid documents, and scope requirements to define complete project coverage.
• Perform comprehensive material, equipment, and labor takeoffs using estimating software and established methodologies.
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing, incorporating productivity rates and market conditions.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate vendor and subcontractor bids to ensure scope alignment, competitiveness, and compliance.
• Attend job walks, pre-bid meetings, and scope reviews to gather field information and refine estimate assumptions.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability issues, and project risks, and incorporate risk analysis and value engineering options into estimates.
• Prepare bid summaries, technical proposals, clarifications, exclusions, and supporting documentation for final submission.
• Coordinate closely with project management, engineering, and field operations to align estimates with execution plans and support project handoff after award.
• Maintain accurate estimating records, databases, and historical cost information while meeting all bid schedules and deadlines.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience estimating commercial or industrial mechanical construction projects, with emphasis on HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems design concepts and how they translate into constructible, costed solutions.
• Proficiency with estimating software tools (e.g., Bluebeam, Trimble, RSMeans or similar platforms) for takeoffs and cost development.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents with high attention to detail.
• Solid knowledge of construction materials, methods, and means for mechanical systems, including sheet metal, piping, and plumbing.
• Experience performing detailed takeoffs and assembling complete, competitive bids under tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with Los Angeles/California building codes and local regulations affecting mechanical construction.
• Strong technical report and proposal writing skills, with the ability to present assumptions, options, and clarifications clearly.
• Demonstrated capability in project scheduling and coordination as it relates to estimating assumptions and bid strategies.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent bids.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience estimating large, complex commercial mechanical projects in healthcare, aerospace, education, entertainment, transportation, research, or similar markets.
• Background in value engineering and alternative-system evaluations to optimize cost, performance, and constructability.
• Hands-on field experience with a mechanical contractor, providing practical insight into labor productivity and installation methods.
• Familiarity with QuickPen or comparable mechanical estimating platforms.
• Experience working within a union mechanical contracting environment.
• Exposure to risk analysis frameworks and cost modeling for complex project delivery methods (e.g., design-build, IPD).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Services Engineering, or a related technical f