Summary:
The Mechanical Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for new construction and retrofit projects involving HVAC, refrigeration, and VRF systems. This includes conceptual and detailed estimates, negotiated bids, budgets, systems evaluations, value engineering, and coordination with design and project teams. The Mechanical Estimator plays a key role in ensuring project success from pre-construction through final proposal by delivering well-analyzed and competitive bids while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
• Experience with estimating; equivalent experience may be considered
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in HVAC/R estimating or mechanical construction estimating
• Deep understanding of HVAC, VRF, and refrigeration system components, installation methods, and industry pricing
• Experience estimating projects ranging from small tenant fit-outs to large-scale commercial or industrial systems
• Familiarity with local and building codes and industry best practices
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously
• Ability to present and justify estimates to internal and external stakeholders with confidence
• Ability to work effectively with Project Managers and others to resolve scope discrepancies
• Strong computer literacy, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Proficient in estimating and construction management software (e.g., Bluebeam, Trimble, QuoteSoft, Excel, Procore, etc.)
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) plans and specifications
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills; able to build trust and communicate clearly with stakeholders
• Proficient in interpreting construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and work independently or as part of a collaborative team
• Commitment to ethical standards and confidentiality
Duties & Responsibilities: The following criteria identify duties to describe the principal functions of the job and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the position.
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates by analyzing drawings, specifications, and other documentation for HVAC, refrigeration, and VRF systems
• Collaborate with internal teams to facilitate clear communication across design, project management, and installation
• Attend meetings with prospective clients
• Lead and manage the estimating process, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and that all client expectations are met or exceeded
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, designers, subcontractors, and vendors to understand needs and improve collaboration
• Conduct quantity take-offs and apply material and labor pricing to determine accurate project values
• Perform value engineering studies, system comparisons, and cost-benefit analyses to optimize project outcomes
• Evaluate project risks and incorporate mitigation strategies into estimates
• Manage subcontractor solicitation, evaluation, and selection processes to ensure competitive and complete pricing
• Prepare bid scopes, qualifications, and assumptions
• Perform cost reconciliations and comparisons with previous estimates and historical data
• Participate in client presentations, interviews, and business development efforts
• Prepare internal construction budget proposals
• Coordinate with Project Managers to ensure alignment between estimating assumptions and execution plans
• Review post-project cost reports to refine and improve future estimating accuracy
• Conduct timely follow-ups on submitted bids to track project status, gather feedback from clients or general contractors, and identify opportunities to revise proposals or secure awarded contracts
Physical Demands:
• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, speak, and listen
• Occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Occasionally lift and/or move heavy items
• Have vision abilities to include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Must have functional vision, hearing, and speech sufficient to conduct business face-to-face and over the phone
***The Mechanical Estimator is also responsible for completing all additional duties assigned by management that may not be listed in this job description***
Company Description: Fuel America is a franchise of its parent company, which does all its baking and roasting locally. We are opening a new wine bar on our outdoor deck starting in April.
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