Chief Estimator

Talent HRizon; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

401(k) with company match

Career growth opportunities

Supportive dynamic work environment

Job summary

Talent HRizon is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and drive preconstruction success. You will oversee the preparation of estimates and proposals, and serve as a critical liaison between project management, operations, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in estimation, strong leadership, and deep knowledge of mechanical systems for commercial HVAC and plumbing, with proficiency in estimating software.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive estimating experience in mechanical or general construction.
• Demonstrated experience leading and growing an estimating team or department.
• Deep understanding of mechanical systems, cost drivers, and bid processes.
• Proficient with estimating software and construction management tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of estimators to develop accurate and competitive estimates.
• Oversee budgets, conceptual estimates, and hard bids for HVAC and Plumbing projects.
• Review major estimates for consistency, accuracy, and completeness prior to submission.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to align estimating with project execution plans.
• Develop relationships with subcontractors and vendors for pricing and value.
• Identify process improvements and implement tools to boost efficiency.
• Lead preconstruction meetings and support hand-offs to operations.
• Analyze market trends to improve bid competitiveness and accuracy.
• Represent Talent HRizon in bid reviews, presentations, and client negotiations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or Engineering

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Talent HRizon is working with one of our clients for a Chief Estimator

Here is the Position Overview:

We're seeking an accomplished and strategic Chief Estimator to lead our estimating department and drive the success of our preconstruction efforts. In this key leadership role, you will oversee the preparation of all estimates and proposals, ensure alignment with business objectives, and serve as a critical liaison between project management, operations, and executive leadership. The ideal candidate will bring a high level of technical knowledge, leadership acumen, and the ability to guide and grow a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor a team of estimators, ensuring the development of accurate, detailed, and competitive estimates.
• Oversee preparation of budgets, conceptual estimates, and hard bids for commercial HVAC and Plumbing projects.
• Review all major estimates for consistency, accuracy, and completeness prior to executive review and submission.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align estimating strategies with broader project execution plans.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to ensure reliable pricing and value-added solutions.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement systems and tools to enhance department efficiency.
• Lead preconstruction meetings and assist in project hand-offs to operations teams.
• Analyze industry trends, market conditions, and historical data to improve bid competitiveness and accuracy.
• Represent VMG in high-level bid reviews, presentations, and negotiations with clients and partners.

Qualifications:

• 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.

What We Offer:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• A leadership role with opportunity for long-term growth and impact.
• Supportive and dynamic work environment focused on innovation and excellence.