Chief Estimator

Engtal; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Engtal is seeking a Chief Estimator in the Chicagoland area to lead the estimating department for mechanical construction projects. The role requires overseeing the full estimating process, mentoring the team, and partnering with operations and executive leadership on pursuits.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in HVAC, piping, plumbing, and mechanical systems with a proven track record in large commercial/industrial projects. This senior position reports to company leadership.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of mechanical construction estimating experience.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, piping, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
• Experience leading or mentoring estimators and collaborating with senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full mechanical estimating process for projects.
• Lead bid reviews and pricing strategy for HVAC, piping, and plumbing work.
• Review drawings, specs, scopes and contract documents.
• Develop labor and material pricing from takeoffs and vendor proposals.
• Mentor estimating team and continuously improve estimating standards.

Skills

Estimating

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Job description

Location: Chicagoland, IL

Industry: Mechanical Construction / HVAC / Plumbing / Piping

About the Opportunity

A growing mechanical contractor in the Chicagoland area is looking to add a Chief Estimator to lead its estimating function and play a key role in the continued growth of the business.

This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced mechanical estimator who can oversee the full estimating process, mentor the estimating team, and partner closely with operations and executive leadership on project pursuits.

The company has experienced significant growth over the past several years and is continuing to invest in its team, systems, and operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating department and oversee the full mechanical estimating process
• Prepare and review estimates for HVAC, piping, plumbing, and mechanical construction projects
• Manage projects from initial bid review through final proposal
• Review drawings, specifications, scopes, and contract documents
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop labor and material pricing
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals
• Lead bid reviews, scope evaluations, and final pricing strategy
• Identify project risks, value-engineering opportunities, and potential cost savings
• Work closely with Project Managers, Operations, and company leadership
• Develop and maintain relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and clients
• Mentor and develop estimators while improving estimating processes and standards
• Assist leadership with project selection, backlog planning, and overall growth strategy

Ideal Background

• 8+ years of mechanical construction estimating experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, piping, plumbing, and mechanical systems
• Experience estimating commercial and/or industrial mechanical projects
• Previous experience leading or mentoring estimators strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costsAbility to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications
• Strong communication, organization, and negotiation skills
• Comfortable working directly with senior leadership and operations teams

Why Consider the Opportunity?

• Senior leadership position with significant influence over the estimating department
• Join a growing and well-established Chicagoland mechanical contractor
• Opportunity to build and develop an estimating team
• Direct access to company ownership and leadership
• Strong project pipeline and continued company growth
• Long-term opportunity to help shape the direction of the business