Chief Estimator

Vertical Mechanical Group; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical benefits

PTO

401(k)

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department for commercial HVAC and Plumbing projects. Based at our Reston, VA HQ, you will drive preconstruction efforts, guide a high-performing team, and collaborate with executives to shape winning proposals.

Ideal candidates have 8+ years in mechanical/construction estimating, strong leadership, and excellent communication. Travel up to 30–40% to DMV-area sites is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive estimating experience within mechanical or general construction.
• Experience leading and managing an estimating team or department.
• Deep understanding of mechanical systems, construction methods, and cost drivers in commercial HVAC and Plumbing.
• Proficient in estimating software and construction management tools.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to present complex information clearly.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience collaborating with project managers, engineers, and executives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department to drive preconstruction efforts.
• Guide and mentor a high-performing estimating team.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and executives to shape proposals.
• Present complex cost information clearly to stakeholders.
• Travel to work sites in the DMV area up to 30–40% of the role.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree (preferred)

Tools

Estimating software

Construction management tools

Job description

\"Jumpstart Your Career: Seize the Opportunity to Excel!\"

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is an industry leader that brings expertise in both HVAC and Plumbing. Our company was originally known as Anderson Mechanical Services, Inc. and Inspiration Plumbing Company. We brought these two respected companies together to provide our clients with award-winning expertise in HVAC and Plumbing for new construction, improvements, renovations, upfits, design-build, and specialty installations in the commercial space.

Are you an accomplished estimating leader ready to make a lasting impact in the mechanical construction industry? Join our dynamic team as a Chief Estimator and play a pivotal role in leading our estimating department, strengthening our preconstruction efforts, and driving the success of commercial HVAC and Plumbing projects. This is an opportunity to guide a high-performing team, collaborate with executive leadership, and help shape VMG’s continued growth in a supportive and innovative environment.

Requirements for this role include:

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive estimating experience within the mechanical or general construction industry.
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing an estimating team or department.
• In-depth understanding of mechanical systems, construction methods, and cost drivers in commercial HVAC and Plumbing.
• Proficient in estimating software and construction management tools.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience working collaboratively with project managers, engineers, and executives.

This position is based at our HQ in Reston, VA. This role will also require travel to work sites in the DMV area, which can be up to 30-40% of the role.

We offer a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including base salary, financial and medical benefits, PTO, and a 401(k).

Connect with us and learn more about Vertical Mechanical Group.

Vertical Mechanical Group is a full-service HVAC and Plumbing contractor specializing in large scale commercial projects. Family owned and operated, VMG provides a tailored approach to each project with the horsepower of a large specialty contractor.