HVAC Estimator

Kelso Building Services; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelso Building Services in the Phoenix region is seeking an experienced HVAC Estimator to join our preconstruction team. The role focuses on evaluating upcoming opportunities, developing accurate cost analyses, and supporting competitive proposals for commercial HVAC projects.

The successful candidate will combine technical knowledge of HVAC systems with strong analytical skills to help position projects for successful execution, working across design teams and vendors to ensure competitive bids.

Qualifications

• Experience with HVAC estimating for commercial projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop cost projections for HVAC installations and upgrades.
• Review plans and bid requirements to determine labor, material, and equipment needs.
• Prepare quantity surveys for equipment and piping systems.
• Coordinate with vendors for current pricing and product information.
• Analyze project scope for cost, schedule, or constructability impacts.
• Create budgets, conceptual pricing, and formal bid submissions.
• Evaluate subcontractor proposals against project requirements.
• Recommend cost-saving alternatives and value-driven design options.
• Participate in job walks and preconstruction discussions.
• Prepare bid clarifications and turnover documentation.
• Maintain estimating records and market cost trends.

Skills

Interpret drawings

Math aptitude

Multi-project handling

Cross-department comms

Education

HVAC/Engineering degree

Tools

Estimating software

Digital takeoff software

MS Office

Job description

At Kelso Building Services, we deliver innovative HVAC and mechanical solutions for commercial and industrial clients throughout the region. Our team is committed to quality workmanship, operational excellence, and building lasting customer relationships. We invest in our employees by providing opportunities for professional growth, hands-on collaboration, and long-term career development.

Position Summary

Kelso Building Services is seeking a detail-oriented HVAC Estimator to join our preconstruction team. This role focuses on evaluating upcoming project opportunities, developing accurate cost analyses, and supporting the preparation of competitive proposals for commercial HVAC projects. The successful candidate will combine technical knowledge of HVAC systems with strong analytical skills to help position projects for successful execution.

What You'll Do

• Develop complete project cost projections for commercial HVAC installations, retrofits, tenant improvements, and facility upgrades.
• Review plans, specifications, engineering documents, and bid requirements to determine labor, material, and equipment needs.
• Prepare quantity surveys for HVAC equipment, duct systems, controls, refrigeration components, piping systems, and associated accessories.
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to obtain current pricing and product information.
• Analyze project scope and identify areas that may impact cost, schedule, or constructability.
• Create budget estimates, conceptual pricing, and formal bid submissions for a variety of project delivery methods.
• Evaluate subcontractor proposals and compare pricing against project requirements.
• Recommend cost-saving alternatives and value-driven design options when appropriate.
• Participate in job walks, client meetings, and preconstruction discussions.
• Prepare proposal summaries, bid clarifications, and other documentation required during the bidding process.
• Support operations teams with project turnover information after contract award.
• Maintain estimating records, historical pricing data, and market cost trends.

Experience We're Looking For

• Three or more years of experience in HVAC estimating, mechanical estimating, project engineering, or a related construction role.
• Experience preparing cost estimates for commercial HVAC construction projects.
• Knowledge of mechanical building systems and construction methodologies.
• Ability to perform detailed takeoffs from digital drawings and construction documents.
• Previous involvement with negotiated work, competitive bids, or conceptual budgeting preferred.
• Strong understanding of HVAC equipment and systems commonly found in commercial facilities.

Technical Knowledge

• Air handling equipment and ventilation systems.
• Rooftop units and split-system HVAC equipment.
• Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) applications.
• Hydronic piping and pumping systems.
• Energy-efficient HVAC technologies.
• Building automation and controls integration.
• Commercial ductwork fabrication and installation practices.
• Heating and cooling infrastructure for institutional and industrial facilities.

Skills & Qualifications

• Ability to interpret construction drawings, schedules, and technical specifications.
• Strong mathematical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Experience with estimating platforms, digital takeoff software, and Microsoft Office products.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Self-motivated approach with the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Background

• Experience working with a commercial HVAC contractor, mechanical service provider, or construction company.
• Familiarity with local building codes, energy standards, and mechanical regulations.
• Knowledge of project budgeting, forecasting, and cost-control processes.
• Technical training, certifications, or a degree related to HVAC, engineering, construction, or building systems.

Why Build Your Career With Kelso?

• Opportunity to contribute to high-profile commercial HVAC projects.
• Supportive team environment focused on collaboration and professional development.
• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization.
• Stable workload and ongoing investment in employee success.