Estimator

Job Title: Mechanical Estimator

Job Description

This role leads the full estimating process for large and complex plumbing and mechanical construction projects. The Mechanical Estimator prepares detailed quantity takeoffs, develops competitive pricing for high-value scopes, and manages bids from initial review through final submission. This position suits a seasoned estimator who understands plumbing systems and codes, can work independently, and takes full ownership of multiple concurrent bids while collaborating closely with project and preconstruction teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full estimating lifecycle for plumbing and mechanical bids exceeding $200K, from initial review through final bid submission.

• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs from construction drawings and specifications for plumbing and mechanical scopes.

• Prepare comprehensive estimates using Excel as the primary tool, with the ability to leverage Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or similar estimating and takeoff software.

• Review drawings and specifications to verify compliance with applicable plumbing codes and project requirements.

• Analyze project risks and evaluate subcontractor quotes, labor, materials, and equipment pricing to develop accurate and competitive bids.

• Collaborate with project management and operations teams to ensure a thorough and accurate handoff of awarded projects.

• Support preconstruction efforts, including value engineering, scope clarifications, and bid strategy as needed.

• Manage multiple bids simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines and maintaining high accuracy and attention to detail.

• Estimate and bid large, complex projects such as large-scale multifamily developments, hospitals and healthcare facilities, warehouses, and other commercial or industrial projects.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, templates, and best practices within the team.

Essential Skills

• 6+ years of experience as a Mechanical or Plumbing Estimator within the construction industry.

• Strong plumbing experience, including deep knowledge of plumbing systems and applicable codes.

• Mechanical, Plumbing, or MEP estimating for large, complex projects with scopes of $200K or more.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for building detailed estimates and cost models.

• Ability to perform full quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications for mechanical and plumbing trades.

• Experience bidding multifamily residential projects or large commercial and industrial projects.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and fully own bids from start to finish.

• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with project management, operations, and preconstruction teams.

• Experience with preconstruction activities such as value engineering, scope clarification, and bid strategy.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Approximately 7 years of experience estimating mechanical or plumbing-related trades is preferred.

• Experience with large-scale multifamily developments (100+ units), hospitals and healthcare facilities, warehouses, and other large commercial or industrial projects.

• Hands-on experience using Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or similar estimating and takeoff software.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.

• Experience in construction management, including coordination with project management and operations teams.

• Ability to perform full takeoffs, bidding, and support project management and preconstruction efforts.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze project risks and develop competitive pricing strategies.

• Motivation to grow within a stable, family-oriented organization with a strong culture of internal promotion.

Work Environment

The role is based on site in Lodi with a standard schedule of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The work environment centers on large construction projects, including multifamily developments, hospitals and healthcare facilities, warehouses, and other commercial and industrial buildings. Estimators work primarily in an office setting using tools such as Microsoft Excel, Bluebeam, PlanSwift, and other construction and estimating software to review drawings and specifications, perform takeoffs, and prepare bids. The organization offers long-term stability as a family-owned and operated business, with a strong culture of internal promotion and career growth. Employees receive comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, vacation, and paid holidays, and have the opportunity to contribute to high-profile, large-scale projects in a collaborative and professional environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Paramus, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $48.00 - $57.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Paramus,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 1, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.