Plumbing/HVAC Estimator

Summary

The Estimator for our client’s San Diego division will manage and/or coordinate all estimating activities required to secure plumbing and mechanical projects. Accuracy, attention to detail, and profitability are essential in this role. The position involves building and maintaining relationships with Estimating Departments within our targeted network of General Contractors. Candidates with experience estimating plumbing and mechanical construction, hydronics, hospitality, sports, healthcare, or similar project types are encouraged to apply.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Regularly engage with the Pre-Construction Departments of targeted General Contractors to identify potential opportunities.

• Assess opportunities to ensure we pursue projects with the best chance of success, align with our business model, leverage our competitive strengths, and deliver margins in line with business goals.

• Review all plans, P&IDs, specifications, and contracts before preparing estimates to identify any impacts on scope or cost.

• Learn and utilize computer-based takeoff and estimating systems that produce consistent, reproducible results.

• Support project sales, including scope development, presentations as needed, client engagement, negotiation, and closing.

• Assist in preparing budgets for initial project setup and any priced change order work for Project Managers.

• Participate in project kickoff meetings to present scope, work plans, budgets, special requirements, and any critical limitations.

• Monitor work progress to compare actual production rates against bid rates.

• Assist in preparing project forecasts, claims, and schedules as required.

• Support productivity tracking of labor units.

• Participate in weekly staff meetings to identify scope deviations, track production, and forecast future work, while helping to develop alternative plans to bring projects back on track when performance falls short of budgeted expectations.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of plumbing and/or mechanical estimating experience

• Proficient in Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel

• Experience with Trimble Autobid and/or other estimating software relevant to sheetmetal and piping projects

• Field or craft experience

• Solid understanding of plumbing, piping, ductwork, and equipment installation

• Knowledge of plumbing, piping, and sheetmetal codes and standards

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management or mechanical engineering