Estimator

Columbia River Plumbing & Mechanical LLC; Kennewick (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia River Plumbing & Mechanical LLC is seeking an Estimator to develop accurate cost estimates for commercial and public plumbing projects. You will collaborate with project managers, vendors, and subcontractors to refine cost projections and ensure profitability.

The role requires strong analytical skills, experience with estimating software, and the ability to manage detailed bid documentation while meeting deadlines and supporting strategic growth.

Qualifications

• Experience developing accurate cost estimates for construction projects.
• Proficiency with estimating software including QuoteSoft and Bluebeam.
• Ability to coordinate with project managers, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Knowledge of local codes and contract requirements.
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for commercial and public plumbing projects.
• Meet estimating deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
• Ensure bids are complete and well-documented.
• Support revenue growth through profitable bidding practices.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers, vendors, subcontractors.
• Identify opportunities to improve margins while ensuring quality.
• Maintain records of estimating activities and bid results.
• Conduct quantity takeoffs using estimating software and construction docs.
• Track estimating KPIs and propose process improvements.
• Forecast workload and pricing trends with leadership.
• Ensure estimates comply with codes and contract requirements.
• Understand commercial plumbing systems and construction methods.
• Ability to interpret plans, specs, addenda, and contracts.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

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

Tools

QuoteSoft

Bluebeam

Microsoft Excel

Estimating software

Job description

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Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and competitive cost estimates for construction projects, ensuring the company remains profitable and competitive in the market. This role requires strong analytical skills, in-depth knowledge of estimating software, and the ability to collaborate closely with project managers, stakeholders, vendors, and subcontractors to gather project requirements and refine cost projections.

What Does Success Look Like?

Estimates are consistently accurate, competitive, and completed ahead of deadlines, resulting in a strong bid-win rate and predictable project profitability.

Bids include clear, detailed scopes, cost breakdowns, and supporting documentation that enable Project Managers and leadership to make timely, confident decisions.

Vendor, subcontractor, and supplier relationships are strong and reliable, producing accurate pricing, dependable quotes, and improved cost efficiencies across projects.

Estimating processes become more efficient and standardized through refined workflows, improved use of software, and proactive identification of cost-saving opportunities.

Estimating data and project information are maintained accurately and organized for future reference and analysis.

Leadership can confidently rely on estimating reports and recommendations to support strategic planning and growth initiatives.

About the Company

At Columbia River Plumbing, we are committed to empowering General Contractors, Builders, and Developers with purposeful, precision-crafted plumbing that is installed accurately, so every project moves forward with total peace of mind.

Our mission is to exceed expectations with expert, reliable, and purposeful plumbing and construction services while our team achieves their personal, professional, and financial goals.

At CRP, our core values represent who we are and how we show up for our community. We ARE TRI:

Accountable

Results-Oriented

Transparent

Reliable

Inspirational

These principles shape the way we lead, serve, and grow. They guide how we support our team, how we communicate with partners, and how we deliver work that strengthens the place we proudly call home.

Objectives

• Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for commercial and public works plumbing projects.
• Consistently meet estimating deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
• Ensure bids are complete, well-documented, and aligned with project requirements.
• Support company revenue growth through strategic and profitable bidding practices.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with suppliers, vendors, subcontractors, and industry partners.
• Identify opportunities to improve margins while maintaining project quality and client satisfaction.
• Maintain accurate records of estimating activities, pricing databases, subcontractor information, and bid results.
• Conduct detailed quantity takeoffs using estimating software and construction documents.
• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure smooth transitions from estimating to project management.
• Track key estimating performance indicators and recommend process improvements.
• Assist leadership in forecasting workload, market opportunities, and pricing trends.
• Ensure all estimates comply with applicable codes, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Strong understanding of commercial plumbing systems, construction methods, and public works projects.
• Ability to develop detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, and contingencies.
• Proficiency with estimating software including QuoteSoft, Bluebeam, Microsoft Excel, and related construction technology platforms.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to prioritize multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
• Effective communication and collaboration with internal teams, clients, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Knowledge of local construction markets, pricing trends, and procurement practices.
• Ability to interpret plans, specifications, addenda, and contract documents.
• Understanding of legal, regulatory, and safety requirements related to construction projects.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency, accuracy, and profitability.
• Ability to provide data-driven recommendations to leadership regarding bidding strategy and market conditions.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Strong knowledge of plumbing materials, labor productivity, and construction processes preferred.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently use a computer and related office equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret plumbing plans, specifications, and technical documents.
• Ability to occasionally visit project sites.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to travel locally as needed for meetings, site visits, and project evaluations.

Commitment to Diversity

As an equal opportunity employer committed to meeting the needs of a multigenerational and multicultural workforce, Columbia River Plumbing recognizes that a diverse staff reflective of our community is an integral and welcome part of a successful and ethical business.

We hire local talent at all levels regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disability, and actively foster inclusion in all forms both within our company and across interactions with clients, candidates, and partners.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.