HVAC Design Estimator

Universal Piping Industries (UPI) is a leader in the design, fabrication and installation of industrial piping & plumbing systems and HVAC systems for industrial/commercial facilities.

UPI is a part of a large group of companies within the Kaiser Enterprise. The Kaiser Enterprise includes, UPI, Gallagher-Kaiser (GK), GK de Mexico, GK Canada, GK GmbH Germany, Tann Corporation, Kais-AIR®, Commerce Controls Incorporated (CCI), Ventcon Incorporated, Rival Insulation, Kaiser Industrial, Universal Fire Protection (UFP) and Synergy Engineering Services.

Headquartered in Troy, Michigan, UPI has expertise in engineering, estimating, project management, fabrication, and installation together with personal involvement in projects to assure the utmost in quality, performance and timely completion.

Position Overview:

The estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for industrial construction projects. This role is essential in supporting project bids, ensuring profitability, and maintaining the company’s reputation for precision and reliability.

Key Responsibilities:

Analyze project plans, blueprints, and specifications for industrial piping, water, or refrigeration systems to determine project scope and requirements

Calculate material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs specific to industrial construction, mechanical systems

Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field supervisors to clarify project details and resolve technical discrepancies

Prepare detailed cost estimates and bid proposals for clients, ensuring compliance with industry standards and client requirements

Maintain and update a database of historical cost data for specialized systems

Participate in site visits to assess project conditions and gather data for accurate estimation

Monitor ongoing projects to compare actual costs with estimates and adjust future estimates accordingly

Support the procurement team in sourcing specialized materials and equipment

Assist in value engineering and cost‑saving initiatives for complex industrial projects

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Proven experience estimating industrial and commercial construction projects, especially in industrial piping, process building piping, water systems, and refrigeration

Strong analytical and mathematical skills; proficiency with estimation and project management software

In-depth knowledge of relevant codes, standards, and best practices in industrial construction and mechanical systems

Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills

Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and under tight deadlines

Assist in value engineering, continuous improvement, and cost‑saving initiatives for complex industrial and commercial projects

Experience with Computer-Based Pipe Take-off programs (Trimble-Quickpen, QuoteSoft, or others)

Comfortable with doing Manual Take-off and Cost Recaps

Experience with scheduling software is a plus

Proven experience with pipe sizing and selection, including pumps, valves

Experience with chilled water systems, industrial boiler systems, industrial process equipment, and industrial utility systems

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