Lead Estimator - Mechanical Construction (HVAC/Plumbing)

Vertical Mechanical Group; South Carolina; On-site; USD 68,000 - 92,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and company holidays

Ongoing training and professional dev.

Opportunities for career growth

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our Preconstruction team at our Sterling, VA headquarters. You will develop accurate estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects, including negotiated work, hard bids, and design-build opportunities.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical knowledge with attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with project teams to develop successful

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating, engineering, construction, or project management experience within related markets.
• Experience working with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction principles, methods, and practices.
• Technical understanding of building systems and commercial construction projects.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documents.
• Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse project teams.
• Positive attitude and ability to succeed in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing
• Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and other bid documents to understand project requirements
• Develop estimates for negotiated, hard-bid, and design-build opportunities
• Evaluate project scope and identify potential risks, exclusions, and cost considerations
• Maintain accurate and organized estimating documentation throughout the bid process
• Review bid invitations and project documents to determine scope and estimating requirements
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Compare proposals to ensure scope coverage and identify potential gaps
• Coordinate bid requirements, deadlines, and deliverables
• Assist with preparing final proposals, clarifications, qualifications, and scope documentation
• Support bid reviews to ensure estimates are complete, competitive, and aligned with project requirements
• Partner with Preconstruction, Operations, Project Management, Engineering, and field teams to develop comprehensive project estimates
• Participate in project reviews, scope discussions, and preconstruction meetings
• Work with vendors, subcontractors, engineers, and other project partners to clarify requirements
• Support project handoffs from Preconstruction to Operations following award
• Share lessons learned and historical cost information to improve future estimates
• Analyze project plans and specifications to identify opportunities for value engineering and cost optimization
• Assist with conceptual budgeting and early-stage project pricing
• Maintain current knowledge of material pricing, labor costs, market conditions, and construction trends
• Utilize historical project data to improve estimating accuracy
• Help identify potential project risks and opportunities during the preconstruction process

Skills

Estimating

MEP knowledge

Budgeting

Read drawings

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Estimating software

Construction management software

Job description

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our Preconstruction team at our Sterling, VA headquarters. You will develop accurate estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical construction projects, including negotiated work, hard bids, and design-build opportunities.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical knowledge with attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with project teams to develop successful