HVAC Estimator

PHFM; Westerville (OH); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

PHFM is seeking an HVAC Estimator to develop accurate cost estimates for commercial HVAC projects, including installation, replacement, renovation, and maintenance. You will review plans, specs, and site conditions to prepare labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor estimates that support profitable project execution.

Collaborate with project managers, operations, sales, and vendors; perform quantity takeoffs; solicit quotes; maintain estimating files; and participate in bid reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.
• At least five years of HVAC estimating experience preferred.
• Proficient with estimating software and MS Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specs, and project documents to prepare HVAC cost estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for equipment, ductwork, piping, and insulation.
• Evaluate labor, material, equipment, subcontractors, and permits for complete estimates.
• Solicit and analyze vendor/subcontractor quotes for competitive pricing.
• Prepare estimate summaries, bid proposals, and supporting documents.
• Collaborate with PMs, operations, and sales to clarify scope and budgeting.

Skills

HVAC estimating

Cost analysis

Vendor coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Construction estimating software

Job description

Description

The HVAC Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for commercial HVAC installation, replacement, renovation, and maintenance projects. This role reviews project plans, specifications, and site conditions to prepare detailed labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor estimates that support successful project execution and profitable operations. The HVAC Estimator works collaboratively with Project Managers, Operations, Sales, Purchasing, and vendors to ensure estimates are complete, accurate, and aligned with project requirements. This position also participates in internal quote reviews to verify pricing accuracy and consistency prior to proposal submission. Occasional travel may be required to conduct site walks, pre-bid meetings, and field verification for larger or more complex projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review mechanical drawings, specifications, schedules, and project documents to prepare accurate HVAC material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates.


• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for HVAC equipment, ductwork, piping, controls, insulation, and related mechanical systems.


• Identify and evaluate all cost factors, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, permits, freight, and project-specific requirements to develop complete and accurate estimates.


• Solicit, review, and analyze vendor and subcontractor quotations to ensure competitive pricing and compliance with project specifications.


• Build and maintain strong working relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and subcontractors to obtain the best value and support successful project execution.


• Participate in internal quote review meetings to verify pricing accuracy, scope completeness, and consistency before proposals are submitted to customers.


• Prepare detailed estimate summaries, bid proposals, and supporting documentation for review by Project Managers and company leadership.


• Collaborate with Project Managers, Operations, and Sales to clarify project scope, identify value engineering opportunities, and ensure accurate project budgeting.


• Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site walks, as needed, to verify existing field conditions and support accurate estimating. Occasional travel may be required for larger or more complex projects.


• Maintain organized estimating files, historical cost data, and vendor pricing information.


• Demonstrate strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills while managing multiple estimates and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.


• Adapt to changing project priorities and business needs while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.


• Exhibit professionalism, initiative, and a collaborative approach when working with internal teams, customers, vendors, and subcontractors.


• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE and TRAINING:

Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university preferred or equivalent experience/training.

At least five (5) years’ experience with HVAC/R Mechanical Service Provider in an estimating capacity preferred.

COMPUTER SKILLS:

Proficient in Microsoft Office Applications and applicable software systems.

Proficient with construction estimating software.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This position works in an environment with moderate noise level. (Examples: business office with computers and printers, light traffic). Usual office environment with frequent sitting, walking, standing, and occasional climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and balancing. Frequent use of eye, hand, and finger coordination enabling the use of office machinery. Oral and auditory capacity enabling interpersonal communication as well as communication through automated devices such as telephone. The employee must occasionally lift and /or move up to 20 pounds. Ability to read and understand work instructions.