Job Description

Job Title: Mechanical / Plumbing Estimator

Levels: Senior & Junior

Industry: Commercial, Institutional & Industrial Construction

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: Competitive; commensurate with experience

Position Overview

We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established mechanical contracting firm seeking an experienced Mechanical/Plumbing Estimator to join its estimating team. This individual will be responsible for developing accurate, detailed cost estimates for complex HVAC and plumbing projects across commercial, institutional, and industrial markets.

The role requires strong technical expertise, precision, and collaboration with project managers, engineers, and operations teams to deliver competitive and compliant bids. Projects include advanced mechanical systems such as steam, process piping, boiler plants, chilled water systems, and full plumbing installations.

Key Responsibilities

• Review construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to prepare comprehensive mechanical and plumbing estimates.
• Perform detailed material, labor, and equipment takeoffs for systems including but not limited to:
• Low- and high-pressure boiler systems (cast iron, package, and water boilers)
• Feed systems, deaerators, and condensate return systems
• Underground double-wall steam distribution (high and low pressure)
• Chilled water piping systems
• Welded breaching installations
• High- and low-pressure steam piping
• Process piping (stainless steel 304L–316L, argon-purged)
• Tubing systems (stainless steel, copper, pneumatic poly)
• Complete plumbing systems
• Chiller replacements and rooftop HVAC units
• Solicit, analyze, and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns covering labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Partner with project managers and engineers to identify value engineering opportunities.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and walkthroughs as required.
• Support project handoff meetings by clearly documenting scope, assumptions, and exclusions.
• Maintain estimating databases, historical cost data, and vendor pricing information.
• Ensure estimates comply with applicable QA programs and industry standards (including ASME B31).

Safety Responsibilities

• Promote and uphold company safety standards across all assigned projects.
• Identify and mitigate potential safety risks during estimating and preconstruction phases.
• Demonstrate leadership and commitment to a safety-first culture.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline preferred.
• 3–5+ years of mechanical and/or plumbing estimating experience in commercial, institutional, or industrial construction.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical, plumbing, and process piping systems and installation practices.
• Familiarity with ASME standards, QA programs, and “R” Stamp capabilities is a plus.
• Proficiency with construction estimating software and digital takeoff tools.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and scopes of work.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines.
• Experience working alongside licensed trades (plumbers, pipefitters, welders, HVAC technicians, and medical gas-certified personnel) preferred.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with regular use of estimating software and computer systems.
• Occasional visits to active and pre-construction job sites.
• Use of PPE may be required during site visits.
• Standard business hours with flexibility during peak bid periods.
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with cross-functional collaboration.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for long-term growth and professional development.

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