HVAC Estimator Take-Off Trainee

JCM Associates; Upper Marlboro (MD); On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance (

401(k) plan with company match

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

JCM Associates, Inc. is seeking a driven HVAC Estimator Trainee for an in-office, full-time role in the Maryland/Virginia/DC area, with hours 7:30am–4pm. You’ll learn estimating for commercial projects and support budgets, pre-construction, and bids.

No prior HVAC knowledge is required; we train you. The position emphasizes attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to read specs and drawings, with hands-on guidance from our estimating team and opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• Proficient in English, both written and verbal
• Comfortable with MS Office programs (Excel, Word)
• Eager to learn how to read specifications and drawings and build material take‑offs
• Excited to develop skills in QuoteSoft estimating software and OST tools
• Curious about HVAC systems–how they work, what they’re made of, and how they come together
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to following established company processes and procedures
• Able to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently
• Ready to develop HVAC piping and equipment take‑offs with confidence
• Able to follow instructions and complete tasks
• Strong communicator who isn’t afraid to ask questions
• High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
• Previous HVAC experience a plus (not required)

Responsibilities

• Performing detailed material take‑offs for pipe‑valves‑fittings and HVAC equipment to support budgets and bids
• Reviewing specifications and drawings and participating in internal pre‑bid meetings
• Collaborating with the Estimating team to prepare comprehensive project bids
• Coordinating the estimating effort for assigned projects with the Bid Team
• Maintaining accurate documentation and backup files for all estimates per company standards
• Interfacing with the Bid Team to provide cost data from HVAC take‑offs
• Learning to fill‑in missing information for complete HVAC piping and equipment take‑offs
• Utilizing time‑management skills to meet deadlines

Skills

English proficiency

MS Office proficiency

Reading specs & drawings

Material take-offs

HVAC curiosity

Detail-oriented

Communication skills

Time management

Independent work

Questioning attitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

QuoteSoft estimating software

On-screen takeoff (OST) tools

Job description

Overview

JCM Associates, Inc. is seeking a driven and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a HVAC Estimator Trainee. This full‑time, in‑office position (40 hours per week, 7:30am–4pm) focuses on estimating for commercial construction projects in Maryland, Virginia and the DC area.

About Us

JCM Associates, Inc. is a leading provider of commercial HVAC and plumbing services in the Mid‑Atlantic region. We partner with top‑tier owners, developers, contractors, vendors, and manufacturers to deliver mechanical solutions to high‑profile projects, including mixed‑use, healthcare, university, and government sectors. Notable projects include the Wharf Phases 1 & 2 in Washington, DC; the CFG Arena; University of Maryland New Residences; The Anthem; Catholic University; and more. Our main office and fabrication facilities are in Upper Marlboro, MD.

Who We're Looking For

This role is designed for someone at the start of their career who is curious, hungry to learn, and ready to grow into a skilled estimating professional. You don't need prior HVAC knowledge; we will train you. What matters is a detail‑oriented attitude, strong communication skills, and a willingness to ask questions.

• Proficient in English, both written and verbal
• Comfortable working with computers and basic MS Office programs (Excel, Word)
• Eager to learn how to read specifications and drawings and build material take‑offs
• Excited to develop skills in QuoteSoft estimating software and on‑screen takeoff (OST) tools
• Curious about HVAC systems – how they work, what they’re made of, and how they come together
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to following established company processes and procedures
• Able to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently
• Ready to develop the judgment needed to complete HVAC piping and equipment take‑offs with confidence
• Able to follow instructions and complete tasks
• Strong communicator who isn’t afraid to ask questions
• High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
• Previous HVAC experience a plus (not required)

What You’ll Learn & Do

From day one, you’ll learn the craft of commercial HVAC estimating with hands‑on guidance from our experienced team. Over time, you’ll take on increasing responsibility, including:

• Performing detailed material take‑offs for pipe‑valves‑fittings and HVAC equipment to support budgets, pre‑construction proposals, hard bids, negotiated bids, and design‑build proposals
• Reviewing specifications and drawings and participating in internal pre‑bid meetings
• Collaborating with the Estimating team to prepare comprehensive project bids
• Coordinating the estimating effort for assigned projects, working closely with the Bid Team
• Maintaining accurate documentation and backup files for all estimates per company standards
• Interfacing with the Bid Team to provide cost data from HVAC take‑offs
• Learning to “fill‑in” missing information for complete HVAC piping and equipment take‑offs
• Utilizing time‑management skills to meet deadlines

What We Offer

• Industry leadership: work with a top contractor known for delivering high‑quality mechanical and plumbing solutions across the region
• Career growth: we promote from within, offering long‑term advancement and skill‑building opportunities
• Supportive culture: thrive in a company where your growth matters, with comprehensive training, mentorship, and leadership development programs

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑based bonuses
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance (after 90 days of employment)
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Continuous opportunities for career growth and professional development

If you are ready to begin your career with a company that values your skills and dedication, apply to join JCM Associates, Inc. and be part of a team shaping the future of commercial mechanical construction.