Estimating Assistant

Temp-Con, Inc.; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 38,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Temp-Con, Inc. is seeking an Estimating Assistant to support the mechanical estimating team in Columbus, OH.

The role streamlines bidding for commercial fire protection, HVAC, plumbing, and piping projects by coordinating RFQs, managing project docs, and inputting data for estimator review. The position requires 1–2 years of admin support experience, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to read basic construction docs.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of admin support or assistant experience in construction/engineering/trade industries
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Able to read and interpret basic construction documents, sheets, and manuals
• Preferred: experience with mechanical or plumbing (MEP) contractors
• Familiarity with digital construction takeoff and estimating software such as Bluebeam Revu

Responsibilities

• Bid Management: download, organize, and track project plans, specs, and addenda from plan rooms and client portals
• Vendor Coordination: distribute RFQs to mechanical suppliers and subcontractors for equipment, piping, plumbing fixtures, and ductwork
• Data Entry & Database Maintenance: input material pricing, labor units, and vendor quotes into estimating databases and spreadsheets
• Bid Document Preparation: compile final bid proposals, letters, bond requests, and qualification statements for executive review
• Post-Bid Administration: maintain historical cost data, organize bid results, and transition files to Project Management team
• All other duties as assigned

Skills

MS Office

Vendor coordination

Communication

Time management

Attention to detail

File organization

Multiple priorities

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree coursework in Construction Management / Business Admin

Tools

Bluebeam Revu

Job description

The Estimating Assistant provides vital administrative, technical, and operational support to the mechanical estimating team. This role is responsible for streamlining the bidding process for commercial fire protection, HVAC, plumbing, and piping projects. The assistant manages project documentation, coordinates vendor quotes, and data for estimator review. This position serves as a central hub of communication between estimators, operations, material suppliers, and subcontractors.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Bid Management: Download, organize, and track upcoming project plans, specifications, and addenda from online plan rooms and client portals.
• Vendor Coordination: Distribute requests for quotes (RFQs) to mechanical suppliers and subcontractors for equipment, piping, plumbing fixtures, and ductwork.
• Data Entry & Database Maintenance: Input material pricing, labor units, and vendor quotes into the company's core estimating database and spreadsheets.
• Bid Document Preparation: Compile final bid proposals, proposal letters, bond requests, and qualification statements for executive review and submission.
• Post-Bid Administration: Maintain historical cost data, organize bid results, and transition files of awarded projects to the Project Management team.
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Experience Required:

• Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in an administrative support or assistant role, ideally within the construction, engineering, or trade industries.
• Software Literacy: High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Document Literacy: Proven ability to navigate and interpret basic construction documents, sheets, and project manuals.

Preferred qualifications:

• Industry Experience: Prior experience specifically working for a mechanical, or plumbing (MEP) contractor.
• Software Familiarity: Exposure to digital construction takeoff and estimating software such as Bluebeam Revu

Education:

• Minimum Requirement: High School Diploma or equivalent with 2+ years of administrative experience in a fast-paced environment.
• Preferred Education: Associate degree or coursework in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or Business Administration.

Job Skills:

• Communication: Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills for frequent outreach to vendors and subcontractors.
• Exceptional Attention to Detail: Ability to spot discrepancies in vendor quotes or minor changes in plan revisions.
• Mathematical Competency: Strong fundamental arithmetic, fractions, and spatial measurements for accurate quantitative support.
• Time Management: Capability to prioritize multi-project deadlines and handle a high volume of requests during peak bidding hours.
• File Organization: Methodical approach to digital file structures and document version control.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Special Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License.
• 10-hour OSHA certification prior to starting.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.