Chief Mechanical Estimator — Lead Large-Scale HVAC Bids

Just Construction Recruitment; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Just Construction Recruitment is seeking an experienced Senior HVAC Estimator / Chief Mechanical Estimator for a leading mechanical contractor in the Houston area. The role focuses on owning the estimating process for major mechanical bids and driving winning outcomes on substantial HVAC projects.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of estimating experience with a mechanical contractor, strong technical knowledge of boilers, air-handling and ventilation, and a proven track record of

Qualifications

• 10+ years HVAC/mechanical estimating experience with a mechanical contractor.
• Proven experience estimating commercial HVAC and mechanical projects.
• Experience bidding projects in the $5 million–$25 million range or larger.
• Experience across commercial, institutional, healthcare/hospital, laboratory, and educational projects.
• Experience with both new construction and retrofit/renovation projects.
• Ability to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings, plans, specs, and bid documents.
• Strong understanding of project scope, bid requirements, exclusions, and risks.
• Strong technical knowledge: boilers, air-handling and ventilation, ductwork, hydronic piping, HVAC controls.
• Experience with GC/subcontractor/vendor liaison and pricing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and construction estimating.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed HVAC and mechanical construction estimates.
• Estimate large commercial HVAC projects typically in the $5 million–$25 million range.
• Review mechanical plans, drawings, specs, and bid documents in detail.
• Identify complete project scope, bid requirements, exclusions, assumptions, and risks.
• Review pipe and duct takeoffs prepared by internal takeoff team.
• Solicit, review, and coordinate subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Analyze quotations to ensure accurate cost capture.
• Develop accurate and competitive project pricing.
• Interface with General Contractors throughout the bidding process.
• Price major HVAC equipment and materials; purchase when required.
• Prepare major purchase orders, subcontracts, and work authorisations.
• Participate in bid reviews and scope reviews; identify gaps and risks before bids.
• Facilitate project turnover meetings and handover to Project Management.
• Collaborate with internal teams, suppliers, and General Contractors to ensure robust estimates.

Skills

HVAC estimating

Mechanical contractor exp

Bid pricing

Reading drawings

GC liaison

Microsoft Office

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Vendor coordination

Plumbing knowledge

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

Job description

Just Construction Recruitment is seeking an experienced Senior HVAC Estimator / Chief Mechanical Estimator for a leading mechanical contractor in the Houston area. The role focuses on owning the estimating process for major mechanical bids and driving winning outcomes on substantial HVAC projects.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of estimating experience with a mechanical contractor, strong technical knowledge of boilers, air-handling and ventilation, and a proven track record of