Estimator

Vertical Mechanical Group Inc; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our Preconstruction team at our Sterling, VA headquarters. You will develop accurate estimates for commercial HVAC and plumbing projects, including negotiated work, hard bids, and design-build opportunities.

You will partner with Preconstruction, Operations, Project Management, Engineering, and field teams to produce comprehensive estimates, evaluate risks, and ensure timely bid delivery.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating, engineering, construction, or project management experience in related markets.
• Experience with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
• Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Bachelor's degree in CM/PM/Engineering/Architecture or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and bid documents to understand project requirements.
• Develop estimates for negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build opportunities.
• Evaluate project scope and identify risks, exclusions, and cost considerations.
• Maintain accurate estimating documentation throughout the bid process.

Skills

Estimating experience

MEP knowledge

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Reading drawings/specs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Estimating software

Construction management software

Job description

Estimator

About Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG)

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is a leading mechanical contractor specializing in commercial HVAC, Plumbing, Piping, and Mechanical Construction. Originally formed through Anderson Mechanical Services, Inc. and Inspiration Plumbing Company, VMG brings decades of industry experience together with a forward-thinking approach to delivering high-quality mechanical solutions.

As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Estimator to join our Preconstruction team at our headquarters in Sterling, Virginia. This role is responsible for developing accurate and competitive estimates for commercial HVAC and plumbing projects, including negotiated work, hard bids, and design-build opportunities.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical knowledge with attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with project teams to develop successful project strategies.

What You'll Do

Develop Accurate Estimates

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing
• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and other bid documents to understand project requirements
• Develop estimates for negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build opportunities
• Evaluate project scope and identify potential risks, exclusions, and cost considerations
• Maintain accurate and organized estimating documentation throughout the bid process

Manage the Bid Process

• Review bid invitations and project documents to determine scope and estimating requirements
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Compare proposals to ensure scope coverage and identify potential gaps
• Coordinate bid requirements, deadlines, and deliverables
• Assist with preparing final proposals, clarifications, qualifications, and scope documentation
• Support bid reviews to ensure estimates are complete, competitive, and aligned with project requirements

Collaborate Across Teams

• Partner with Preconstruction, Operations, Project Management, Engineering, and field teams to develop comprehensive project estimates
• Participate in project reviews, scope discussions, and preconstruction meetings
• Work with vendors, subcontractors, engineers, and other project partners to clarify requirements
• Support project handoffs from Preconstruction to Operations following award
• Share lessons learned and historical cost information to improve future estimates

Support Preconstruction Strategy

• Analyze project plans and specifications to identify opportunities for value engineering and cost optimization
• Assist with conceptual budgeting and early-stage project pricing
• Maintain current knowledge of material pricing, labor costs, market conditions, and construction trends
• Utilize historical project data to improve estimating accuracy
• Help identify potential project risks and opportunities during the preconstruction process

What You Bring

• 3+ years of estimating, engineering, construction, or project management experience within related markets
• Experience working with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems
• Strong understanding of commercial construction principles, methods, and practices
• Technical understanding of building systems and commercial construction projects
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents
• Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse project teams
• Positive attitude and ability to succeed in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience estimating commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, or mechanical construction projects
• Experience with negotiated work, hard bids, and design-build projects
• Knowledge of labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and resource planning
• Experience with estimating and construction management software
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field preferred

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Opportunities for continued career growth within a rapidly growing organization
• A collaborative environment where your expertise and ideas make an impact

Why VMG?

At VMG, Preconstruction plays an important role in setting our projects up for success before work ever begins in the field.

Our Estimators work closely with internal teams, clients, vendors, and project partners to develop thoughtful, competitive solutions for complex commercial mechanical projects. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to projects from the earliest stages while building your expertise within a growing mechanical contractor.

If you're a detail-oriented construction professional who understands commercial mechanical systems, estimating, and what it takes to build a successful project, we'd like to hear from you.

This position is based at VMG's headquarters in Sterling, VA and is 100% onsite.

VMG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.