Estimator

John W. Danforth Company; City of Tonawanda (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

John W. Danforth Company in Tonawanda, NY seeks an Estimator to support preconstruction and operations with detailed takeoffs and cost development for HVAC and plumbing projects. You’ll review drawings, quantify labor and materials, and collaborate across estimating, operations, and project teams to position bids for success.

Experience in mechanical construction is required; a bachelor’s degree is preferred. Proficiency with Trimble AutoBid Mechanical/SheetMetal and Excel is expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3+ years estimating experience in mechanical construction or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in Engineering, Construction Management or related field.
• Strong understanding of HVAC and/or plumbing systems.
• Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel.
• Analytical, problem-solving, organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed labor and material takeoffs for HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate estimates.
• Identify scope gaps, risks, and opportunities and communicate findings clearly to project stakeholders.
• Obtain, evaluate, and analyze vendor and subcontractor pricing.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, and project teams throughout the bid process.
• Participate in project turnover meetings to support a seamless transition from estimating to operations.
• Participate in Job Kick-Off Meetings to support effective project planning and execution.
• Maintain organized estimating documentation and adhere to established best practices.
• Ensure estimates are complete, accurate, and aligned with project requirements.

Skills

Estimating

Analytical skills

Time management

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Construction Management

Tools

Trimble AutoBid Mechanical/Sheetmetal

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About Us

John W. Danforth Company, one of the largest mechanical contractors in the Northeast, is growing! We believe our people are our greatest asset and invest in training, career development, employee engagement, and team support. We are committed to delivering industry-leading experiences for our customers across commercial and industrial HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, advanced technology manufacturing, process piping, fabrication, mission-critical environments, and energy performance projects, backed by comprehensive service maintenance and repair.

Job Summary

As an Estimator at John W. Danforth Company, you will play a key role in supporting our preconstruction and operations teams by developing accurate and competitive project estimates. This role focuses on three main areas: project analysis and takeoffs, including labor and material quantities; cost development and scope evaluation, ensuring accuracy and completeness; and team collaboration, working closely with estimating, operations, and project teams to set projects up for success. You will help position projects for success through detailed planning, thorough analysis, and effective communication throughout the estimating process.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed labor and material takeoffs for HVAC and plumbing systems.
• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to develop accurate estimates.
• Identify scope gaps, risks, and opportunities and communicate findings clearly to project stakeholders.
• Obtain, evaluate, and analyze vendor and subcontractor pricing.
• Collaborate with estimating, operations, and project teams throughout the bid process.
• Participate in project turnover meetings to support a seamless transition from estimating to operations.
• Participate in Job Kick-Off Meetings to support effective project planning and execution.
• Maintain organized estimating documentation and adhere to established best practices.
• Ensure estimates are complete, accurate, and aligned with project requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3+ years of estimating experience in mechanical construction or a related field.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• Strong understanding of HVAC and/or plumbing systems.
• Proficiency with estimating software (Trimble AutoBid Mechanical/Sheetmetal preferred) and Microsoft Office applications, including Excel.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work successfully in a team-based environment.
• Professional, positive attitude with a strong desire to learn and grow.

#danfth

Equal Opportunity Employer

As a leading provider of mechanicaland electrical construction, facilities services, and energy infrastructure,we offer employess a competitive salary and benefits package and we are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and sucess. Equal Oppurtunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

Geographic Disclosure

Compensation Range: $65,000-$85,000

Other Compensation: Bonus eligible

Benefits: We are committed to providing employees a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with health savings and flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability, a 401(k) Savings Plan, and an employee assistance program.