Estimator

Vertical Mechanical Group; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 77,000 - 104,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision 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, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects, working closely with Preconstruction, Operations, and Engineering to prepare competitive bids.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical construction knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to drive cost-effective estimates from

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating, engineering, construction, or project management experience.
• Experience with Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) professionals.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction principles and practices.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and project documents.
• Excellent organizational, written and verbal communication skills.

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 develop complete estimates.
• Prepare estimates for negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build opportunities.
• Coordinate bid deadlines and ensure deliverables are completed on time.
• Assist with preparing final proposals, clarifications, qualifications, and scope documentation.

Skills

Estimating

MEP experience

Reading drawings

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication skills

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, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects. The ideal candidate brings strong mechanical construction knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across teams to develop successful bids from initial review through final submission.

What You'll Do

• 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 develop complete project estimates
• Prepare estimates for negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build opportunities
• Identify project scope requirements, risks, exclusions, and potential cost considerations
• Maintain accurate and organized estimating documentation throughout the bid process

Manage the Bid Process

• Review bid invitations, project documents, and scope requirements
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers
• Compare proposals and identify scope gaps or inconsistencies
• Coordinate bid deadlines and ensure required deliverables are completed on time
• Assist with preparing final proposals, clarifications, qualifications, and scope documentation
• Participate in estimate reviews before final submission

Collaborate Across Teams

• Work closely with Preconstruction, Operations, Project Management, Engineering, and field teams
• Participate in scope reviews, preconstruction meetings, and project planning discussions
• Coordinate with vendors, subcontractors, engineers, and other project partners
• Support successful project handoffs from Preconstruction to Operations
• Incorporate lessons learned and historical project information into future estimates

Support Preconstruction Strategy

• Identify value-engineering and cost-optimization opportunities
• Assist with conceptual budgets and early-stage project pricing
• Monitor material, equipment, labor, and market pricing trends
• Maintain and utilize historical cost data to improve estimating accuracy
• Identify potential project risks and opportunities during the estimating process

What You Bring

• 3+ years of estimating, engineering, construction, or project management experience in related markets
• Experience working with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) professionals
• Strong understanding of commercial construction principles 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 and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple estimates, projects, and deadlines simultaneously
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse project teams
• Positive attitude and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience estimating commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, or mechanical construction projects
• Experience with negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build projects
• Understanding 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 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 advancement
• A collaborative environment where your work directly contributes to project success

Why VMG?

At VMG, our Preconstruction team plays a critical role in setting every project up for success. Our Estimators work closely with project teams, vendors, subcontractors, and clients to develop competitive solutions while maintaining the accuracy and attention to detail our customers expect.

If you're an experienced construction professional who understands commercial mechanical systems, estimating, and the importance of developing accurate and competitive project costs, 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.

Salary: $90000 per year