HVAC Estimator

Kimmel & Associates; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan

Comprehensive medical coverage

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

Kimmel & Associates is looking for a Senior HVAC Estimator in San Diego to enhance their team. The ideal candidate will have over 6 years of experience in HVAC estimating within commercial mechanical systems, capable of preparing detailed estimates and conceptual budgets. Responsibilities include collaborating with teams and clients, evaluating vendor pricing, and presenting project proposals. A bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field is required. The role offers a salary between $100,000 and $140,000 and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6+ years of HVAC/mechanical estimating experience.
• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications.
• Experience in evaluating vendor and subcontractor pricing.

Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual budgets based on limited design documentation.
• Prepare detailed estimates for design-build and plan/spec projects.
• Perform quantity take-offs for mechanical systems, materials, and equipment.

Skills

HVAC estimating

Commercial mechanical systems

Budgeting

Detailed estimates

Vendor pricing evaluation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Job description

About the Company

The company is a highly respected, full-service design-build mechanical contracting firm with over 30 years of experience delivering innovative HVAC solutions. Serving commercial, industrial, healthcare, and mission-critical sectors, the company is known for its technical excellence, collaborative approach, and ability to execute complex projects with precision.

About the Position

The company is seeking a Senior HVAC Estimator to join their growing team in the Greater San Diego area. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional with deep experience in commercial mechanical systems who thrives in both conceptual budgeting and detailed bid environments.

The Estimator will play a critical role in developing accurate cost projections across multiple project delivery methods, including early-stage budgeting and fully designed plan/spec work. This individual will collaborate closely with internal teams, vendors, and clients to ensure competitive, comprehensive, and well-structured proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual budgets based on limited design documentation
• Prepare detailed estimates for design-build and plan/spec projects
• Perform quantity take-offs for mechanical systems, materials, and equipment
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing
• Interpret drawings, specifications, and design narratives to build complete estimates
• Review subcontractor proposals for scope alignment and accuracy
• Assist in compiling and presenting project proposals
• Participate in pre-award meetings and client-facing discussions as needed

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 6+ years of HVAC/mechanical estimating experience

Project Experience

• Design-build healthcare, high-rise, mission-critical, education, and industrial projects
• Project sizes ranging from $5M to $50M
• Ability to work on-site in the Greater San Diego area

Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $100,000 – $140,000 (dependent on experience)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Comprehensive medical coverage
• Paid time off (PTO)