Estimator

Socket.dev; Ogden (UT); On-site; USD 80,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Ongoing professional development

Stable growing company

Job summary

Kelso Building Services is seeking a Construction Estimator to join our preconstruction team in Ogden, UT. You will develop estimates for commercial and industrial mechanical projects, review plans and specs, and collaborate with project stakeholders to ensure accurate pricing.

You will analyze drawings, quantities, and subcontractor costs, supporting budget development and bid submissions. This role requires strong analytical skills and a proactive, team-oriented approach.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of estimating experience in construction.
• Experience with commercial and industrial mechanical systems.
• Background in budgeting and detailed estimating.
• Ability to read drawings and specs to prepare proposals.
• Experience with HVAC, piping, controls, and related systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop complete cost estimates from concept to bid.
• Review plans and specs to determine scope and pricing.
• Perform quantity surveys for HVAC, piping, ductwork, and controls.
• Compile labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Prepare pricing for negotiated work, bids, and design-build.
• Evaluate risks and scheduling during proposals.
• Coordinate with operations, PMs, field leadership, and engineering.
• Solicit vendor pricing and analyze proposals.
• Recommend cost-saving alternatives and value engineering concepts.
• Attend site walks and pre-bid conferences.
• Prepare bid summaries and management review packets.
• Support transition of awarded projects into startup.
• Maintain historical pricing databases.

Skills

Estimating proficiency

Analytical thinking

Bid management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or Mechanical Engineering

Associate degree in related field

Tools

Estimating software

Takeoff tools

MS Office

Job description

At Kelso Building Services, we deliver innovative mechanical construction solutions that help clients successfully complete complex commercial and industrial projects. Our team-driven culture emphasizes safety, accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth. We invest in our employees by providing the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to build long-term careers and make a meaningful impact.

Position Summary

Kelso Building Services is seeking a skilled Construction Estimator to join our preconstruction team. This position plays a critical role in evaluating upcoming opportunities, developing project budgets, and supporting business growth through accurate and competitive pricing strategies. The successful candidate will have experience in commercial and industrial mechanical construction, strong analytical abilities, and a proactive approach to collaborating with project stakeholders throughout the estimating process.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop complete cost estimates for commercial and industrial mechanical construction projects from conceptual planning through final bid submission.
• Review plans, specifications, drawings, schedules, and contract documents to determine project scope and pricing requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity surveys for HVAC equipment, piping systems, ductwork, controls, insulation, and related mechanical components.
• Compile labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs into comprehensive project estimates.
• Prepare pricing packages for negotiated work, competitive bids, design-build opportunities, and preconstruction services.
• Evaluate project risks, constructability concerns, and scheduling considerations during the proposal phase.
• Coordinate with operations teams, project managers, field leadership, and engineering personnel to ensure estimate accuracy.
• Solicit vendor and subcontractor pricing and analyze proposals for scope coverage and value.
• Recommend cost-saving alternatives, value engineering concepts, and efficiency improvements where appropriate.
• Attend site walks, pre-bid conferences, and project review meetings as needed.
• Prepare bid summaries, proposal documents, scope clarifications, and management review packages.
• Support the transition of awarded projects through preconstruction and project startup activities.
• Maintain historical pricing databases and estimating records to support future project development.

Professional Experience

• Five or more years of estimating experience within the construction industry.
• Demonstrated experience preparing estimates for commercial and industrial mechanical systems.
• Background in both conceptual budgeting and detailed construction estimating.
• Proven ability to analyze drawings and specifications to develop complete project proposals.
• Working knowledge of the following systems:
• HVAC Air Distribution Systems
• Sheet Metal Fabrication and Installation
• Hydronic Piping Networks
• Industrial and Process Piping Systems
• Boiler and Heating Equipment
• Chilled Water Systems
• Cooling Tower Installations
• VRF and Refrigeration Technologies
• Packaged HVAC Equipment
• Building Automation and Controls
• Experience supporting budgeting and early-stage project planning efforts.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of construction estimating principles and mechanical building systems.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications, addenda, and other construction documentation.
• Proficiency with estimating software platforms, electronic takeoff tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Capable of managing multiple bids, deadlines, and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build productive relationships with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Commitment to accuracy, attention to detail, and overall project success.

Preferred Background

• Experience working with a mechanical contractor, industrial contractor, or construction management organization.
• Knowledge of mechanical codes, industry regulations, and construction standards.
• Understanding of project budgeting, forecasting, and cost management practices.
• Experience participating in preconstruction planning and project development activities.
• Technical training, associate degree, or bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Technology, or a related discipline.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to contribute to impactful commercial and industrial construction projects.
• Collaborative work environment with experienced industry professionals.
• Competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits.
• Career advancement opportunities and ongoing professional development.
• A stable and growing company focused on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.