Mechanical Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Mechanical Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates for commercial HVAC and plumbing construction projects, with a strong emphasis on HVAC systems and mechanical scopes. This role plays a key part in preconstruction by analyzing project documents, performing takeoffs, coordinating vendor pricing, and supporting project teams with budgeting and bid strategy.

Projects typically include commercial, healthcare, laboratory, education, industrial, and office facilities, requiring detailed coordination across mechanical systems and construction trades. The ideal candidate has experience estimating HVAC systems, piping, and mechanical equipment, with plumbing experience considered a plus.

Key Responsibilities

• Review construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to define HVAC and mechanical project scope.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for ductwork, piping, HVAC equipment, controls, and plumbing systems.
• Develop conceptual, schematic, and final estimates based on project design phase and scope.
• Solicit, review, and level subcontractor and supplier quotes to ensure complete scope coverage.
• Prepare detailed bid proposals, cost breakdowns, and estimate summaries.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and potential project risks during the bidding process.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and operations teams to support project planning and execution.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and coordination meetings as needed.
• Provide value engineering recommendations to improve cost efficiency and project feasibility.
• Maintain organized estimate files, cost databases, and historical pricing information.
• Support project turnover to operations by clearly communicating estimate assumptions and scope details.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience estimating mechanical construction projects, with strong HVAC experience required.
• Experience working for a mechanical contractor or MEP-focused construction company.
• Strong understanding of commercial HVAC systems, ductwork, piping, and mechanical equipment.
• Plumbing estimating experience is a plus, but HVAC experience is strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and bid documents.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, labor productivity, and material pricing.
• Experience estimating projects in commercial, healthcare, industrial, laboratory, or education sectors preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with design-build mechanical projects and preconstruction collaboration.
• Familiarity with BIM/VDC coordination and prefabrication workflows.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software such as Bluebeam, Trimble, FastPIPE, QuoteSoft, or similar platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred.