Mechanical Estimator

The Mechanical Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for mechanical systems including HVAC plumbing piping and fire protection across commercial industrial and/or institutional construction projects. This role analyzes drawings specifications and other documentation to determine material labor and equipment costs and supports bid preparation and project handover.

The estimator plays a critical role in risk assessment value engineering and ensuring financial viability of projects prior to execution.

Key Responsibilities

1. Estimating & Cost Analysis

• Review and interpret mechanical drawings specifications addenda and project documentation.

• Perform quantity take-offs for HVAC plumbing piping and related mechanical systems.

• Prepare detailed cost estimates including:

  • Material costs

  • Labor hours and productivity rates

  • Equipment and subcontractor pricing

  • Overhead and margin analysis

• Develop conceptual schematic and detailed estimates depending on project stage.

• Maintain historical cost data and estimating databases.

2. Bid Preparation & Submission

• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.

• Conduct scope analysis and identify exclusions assumptions and clarifications.

• Participate in pre-bid meetings and site visits as required.

• Prepare bid summaries and final proposal documentation.

• Assist in bid leveling and negotiation processes.

3. Risk & Value Engineering

• Identify potential cost risks and constructability issues.

• Propose value engineering alternatives to optimize cost and performance.

• Analyze design changes and prepare cost impact assessments.

4. Collaboration & Coordination

• Coordinate with project managers engineers procurement and operations teams.

• Support project handover by providing estimate breakdowns and clarifications.

• Communicate with clients consultants and suppliers when required.

5. Continuous Improvement

• Track project performance against estimates and conduct post-bid reviews.

• Update cost libraries based on actual project data.

• Improve estimating processes tools and accuracy.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Construction Management or related field (preferred).

• 6-7 years of experience in mechanical estimating or related construction experience.

• Strong knowledge of HVAC plumbing piping systems and mechanical codes.

• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g. PlanSwift Bluebeam Trimble Accubid FastPIPE etc.).

• Strong understanding of construction drawings and specifications.

• Solid knowledge of labor productivity factors and cost structures