Building Automation Estimator — Bid & Cost Expert

EMCOR Services Automated Controls; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

DeBra-Kuempel is seeking a Building Automation Systems (BAS) Estimator to prepare accurate, cost-effective estimates for BAS projects, including new installations, retrofits, and upgrades. This role supports business development and collaborates with mechanical contractors, consulting engineers, developers, and partners.

The ideal candidate blends BAS/HVAC knowledge with strong analytical and communication skills to drive bids from pursuit through turnover.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in estimating or related roles within building automation systems, HVAC controls, DDC, or smart buildings industry.
• Experience estimating for healthcare, data centers, higher education, or large portfolios with energy/performance contracting focus.
• Familiarity with LEED/sustainability requirements, fault detection & diagnostics (FDD), cybersecurity standards for BAS, and remote/cloud-based systems.
• Previous field experience in BAS installation, commissioning, or service (helpful for realistic estimating).

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret project documents, including plans, specs, sequences, RFPs, and addenda, to determine scope and requirements.
• Perform detailed take-offs for BAS components such as controllers, sensors, actuators, valves, dampers, wiring, software, and programming hours.
• Develop accurate BOM, labor estimates, subcontractor quotes, and overhead/profit margins.
• Estimate costs for plan & spec, design-build, and performance contracts.
• Select control system hardware/software (e.g., Niagara, Automated Logic, Metasys, Desigo CC, BACnet) and ensure compliance.
• Mitigate bid risks and identify pricing opportunities, value engineering, and change orders.
• Support full bid lifecycle with proposals, pricing breakdowns, and negotiations.
• Maintain estimating databases and cost data; track BAS industry trends and tech.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

BAS estimation

HVAC controls

Take-offs

Bid/proposals

Blueprint reading

BACnet/Modbus

Contract negotiation

Project coordination

Communication

Education

Associate's in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering

Construction Management

Building Automation

Niagara Certification

Tridium Certification

Johnson Controls Certification

Tools

Bluebeam

ERP/CRM systems

Estimating software

Job description

DeBra-Kuempel is seeking a Building Automation Systems (BAS) Estimator to prepare accurate, cost-effective estimates for BAS projects, including new installations, retrofits, and upgrades. This role supports business development and collaborates with mechanical contractors, consulting engineers, developers, and partners.

The ideal candidate blends BAS/HVAC knowledge with strong analytical and communication skills to drive bids from pursuit through turnover.