Estimator - Construction

JHKelly, LLC; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Medical/Vision/Rx – Dental/Ortho Coverage

Paid Vacation and Holidays

401K with company match

Life Insurance and Disability Coverage

Annual Performance Bonuses

Profit Sharing

Job summary

A notable construction company in Seattle is seeking an experienced Mechanical Construction Estimator. This role involves leading the preparation of detailed estimates for substantial commercial mechanical projects, requiring a technical background and strong organizational skills. Ideal candidates will have three or more years' experience in estimating, along with effective communication abilities and knowledge in plumbing and process piping systems. This position offers competitive compensation ranging from $95,000 to $130,000 annually and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of experience estimating construction work in mechanical, civil, or structural steel.
• Preferred: Conceptual estimating experience.
• Preferred: Knowledge of Project Management, Construction Contracts, QA/QC, and Safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed estimates for mechanical construction projects.
• Coordinate with Supply Chain procurement team on pricing of materials.
• Participate in Bid Walks to identify risks and methods.

Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Strong oral and written communication skills

Good understanding of plumbing and process piping systems

Education

Degree in Construction Management or Engineering

Tools

Bluebeam

Excel

Job description

At JH Kelly, we’re hiring an experienced Mechanical Construction Estimator to lead the preparation of detailed, competitive estimates for major commercial mechanical construction projects throughout the Treasure Valley. This role goes beyond developing takeoffs and pricing; it is intended for a technically strong, highly organized professional who works collaboratively with project managers, engineers, and craft leadership to help position our company for success. We are seeking an individual who values accuracy, accountability, and understands the complexities of plumbing and process piping systems. If you are a disciplined problem-solver, this position offers a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting professional impact.

About Us

Celebrating over a century of excellence, JH Kelly is a fourth-generation, family-owned construction powerhouse known for tackling complex commercial and heavy industrial projects. With offices in Vancouver, Longview, Seattle, Bellingham, WA, and Milwaukie, OR, we’re an industry leader fueled by an award-winning team committed to safety, quality, and a dynamic, tight-knit culture. Learn more about our story at www.jhkelly.com

Salary range:

$95,000–$130,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications. (FLSA Exempt)

Benefits Package

• Comprehensive Medical/Vision/Rx – Dental/Ortho Coverage: JH Kelly pays 87.5% of total premiums.
• Paid Vacation and Holidays: Generous PTO model to support work-life balance.
• 401K: 50% company match on the first 6% of employee contributions.
• Life Insurance, AD&D, STD & LTD: Paid 100% by JH Kelly.
• Annual Performance Bonuses: Opportunity for additional compensation based on performance.
• Profit Sharing: Participate in JH Kelly’s profit-sharing program. Averaging 9% of total compensation for the past 10 years.

Submit accurate and timely bids

• Work with the Project Manager / Project Executive on an organized bid breakdown of the project and the method of takeoff for proper setup of the estimate.
• Review scope and specifications.
• Participate in Bid Walks to identify means and methods as well as risk conditions.
• Clearly communicate the RFP Requirements and Bid Walk observations to the Bid Team, assign responsibilities, and due dates.
• Receive all addenda, update the estimate accordingly, and communicate all changes to the bid team.
• Identify pre-fabrication opportunities and include them in the estimate.
• Identify and estimate Value Engineering alternatives for Proposals.
• Generate and track RFIs to clarify bid documents as required.
• Prepare technical clarifications and exclusions for the estimate.
• Prepare Project Execution Plans when required.

Coordinate with the Supply Chain procurement team on pricing of materials and equipment

• Accurately provide specifications and take-off quantities for conduit, wire, light fixtures, electrical gear, and other electrical devices from the one line, P&ID, GA, and other forms of project information using Accubid.
• Prepare and distribute RFQ packages for subcontracted scopes of work.
• Develop Man-Loaded Proposal Schedules.

Project Turnover & Cost Analysis

• Work closely with the Project Manager for the cost breakdown of the estimate to generate unit/hour, material, and subcontractor analysis for project turnover.
• Lead and/or participate in Project Turnover Meetings.
• Allocate the budget per Phase Code structure.
• Review and estimate changes between IFB and IFC documents.
• Review the ‘issued for construction’ drawings for revisions.Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned.

What You Bring

• Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of experience estimating construction work, mechanical, civil, and/or structural steel. Preferred: Conceptual estimating experience. Preferred: Knowledge of Project Management, Construction Contracts, QA/QC, and Safety.
• Education: Degree in Construction Management, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent work experience.
• Required Skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and Bluebeam; intermediate Excel skills.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Commitment to meeting estimating deadlines on time and error-free.
  • Ability to proactively build and cultivate relationships.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with multiple tasks and projects at hand.
• Mindset: Organized, proactive, and able to thrive under pressure. A self-starter who builds relationships and takes initiative.

Physical Requirements

This role requires transitioning between office and construction field settings. You’ll sit for extended periods in the office and perform repetitive tasks like typing and using a mouse. In the field, you’ll stand and walk on uneven terrain, climb stairs, kneel, crouch, crawl to inspect tight spaces, and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds. Good vision and hearing are essential for reading plans and on-site communication. You’ll work outdoors in various weather conditions, adhere to site-specific dress codes, and wear PPE (hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots). Flexibility to travel and work outside regular hours is required. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.