HVAC Estimator

Lightning Mechanical; Maplewood (NJ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Bonus based on performance

Health insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Lightning Mechanical, an HVAC contractor serving New Jersey and the Tri-State area since 2005, seeks a senior HVAC estimator to drive profitability through accurate bids and improved estimating processes.

You will lead the full estimating lifecycle for commercial and industrial projects, build cost breakdowns, and collaborate with leadership to align bids with growth objectives while leveraging AIA billing and vendor networks.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of HVAC estimating experience on commercial/industrial projects.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems and construction practices.
• Familiarity with AIA billing (preferred).
• Ability to influence project selection and profitability strategies.
• Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills; cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full estimating process for commercial and industrial HVAC projects, from review of specs/drawings to final bid submission.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns including labor, equipment, subcontractors, and materials.
• Partner with leadership to evaluate project opportunities and align bids with growth objectives.
• Provide value engineering to keep bids competitive without compromising quality.
• Build and maintain vendor/subcontractor networks for pricing.
• Standardize and improve estimating procedures and tools for efficiency and consistency.
• Support business development with pricing insights and client discussions as needed.
• Assist with AIA billing and project documentation as required.

Skills

HVAC estimating

Commercial/industrial

AIA billing

Pricing strategies

Estimating software

Microsoft Office

Negotiation

Cross-functional

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Bonus based on performance
• Health insurance

About Us

Lightning Mechanical is a trusted HVAC contractor serving New Jersey and the greater Tri-State area since 2005. We specialize in commercial, industrial, and multi-tenant HVAC services. Our expertise spans repair, maintenance, installation, and custom sheet metal fabrication. We provide factory-trained service, installation, and maintenance for Daikin VRV and Applied systems, along with many other VRF manufacturers — setting us apart as a leader in the region.

We are positioned for continued growth and are seeking a senior-level Estimator who can play a critical role in driving profitability and ensuring accurate project forecasting.

Position Summary

The Senior HVAC Estimator will be a key contributor to Lightning Mechanical’s growth strategy. This individual will be responsible not only for preparing accurate bids but also for shaping the company’s estimating processes, guiding project selection, and contributing to overall business development strategy.

This is a high-impact role suited for a seasoned professional with the expertise to influence margins and secure profitable work for a growing company.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full estimating process for commercial and industrial HVAC projects, from review of specs/drawings to final bid submission.
• Develop detailed cost breakdowns including labor, equipment, subcontractors, and materials.
• Partner with leadership to evaluate project opportunities, ensuring bids align with strategic growth objectives.
• Provide value engineering solutions to keep bids competitive without compromising quality.
• Build and maintain strong vendor and subcontractor networks to secure competitive pricing.
• Standardize and improve estimating procedures and tools to drive efficiency and consistency.
• Support business development by providing pricing insights and participating in client-facing discussions as needed.
• Assist with AIA billing and project documentation as required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in HVAC estimating, with a proven track record in commercial and industrial projects.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, equipment, and construction practices.
• Familiarity with AIA billing processes (preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to influence project selection and contribute to profitability strategies.
• Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with leadership, PMs, and clients.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: $110,000 – $150,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Career growth opportunities in a company on track for continued expansion.