Mechanical Cost Manager

Consertus; Oakbrook Terrace (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-paid life and disability insurance

401(k) with match

Generous time off including PTO and holidays

Access to Consertus Academy for learning

Job summary

Consertus is seeking a Mechanical Cost Estimator in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, with 5–8 years of construction estimating experience, focusing on mechanical systems. The role involves developing comprehensive estimates and performing detailed take-offs, requiring strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Excel. The compensation range for this position is $95,000–$120,000 annually and offers excellent benefits, including company-paid life insurance and generous time off.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of experience in construction estimating, with a focus on mechanical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data organization.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical cost estimates across all project phases.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs for HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems.
• Support pricing development through vendor coordination and cost database research.

Skills

Construction estimating

Mechanical systems knowledge (HVAC, plumbing, fire protection)

Microsoft Excel

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Ability to manage deadlines

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Job description

About Us

Consertus is a global capital program management and advisory firm that combines deep human expertise with advanced digital tools to deliver smarter, faster, and more sustainable outcomes. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, and supported by a team of more than 1,000 professionals worldwide, we help clients plan, execute, and optimize large-scale capital programs.

Our integrated services span digital, advisory, and delivery, empowering organizations to navigate complexity, manage risk, and achieve strategic goals in sectors including aviation, transportation, transit, water, healthcare, energy, education, government, commercial, life sciences, and technology.

At Consertus, we celebrate individual strengths, foster strong relationships, and promote flexibility in how and where we work. Join us to grow your career, develop your skills, and make a lasting impact as we transform how the world is built.

Discover how Consertus is driving transformative change for our clients, our people, and the communities we serve at www.consertus.com

About This Role

We are seeking a Mechanical Cost Estimator with 5–8 years of experience to join our growing team. This role is suited for individuals who have developed a strong foundation in construction estimating and are ready to take on greater responsibility in estimate development, coordination, and client support.

In this role, you will work alongside senior cost managers and multidisciplinary project teams to develop mechanical system estimates across all phases of design. You will contribute to cost planning, perform detailed quantity take-offs, evaluate pricing, and help deliver accurate and defensible estimates for a variety of complex projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical cost estimates across all project phases:
  • Conceptual
  • Schematic Design
  • Design Development
  • Construction Documents
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs for:
  • HVAC systems
  • Plumbing systems
  • Fire protection systems
  • Site and underground utilities
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and design narratives to define scope and identify gaps.
• Support pricing development through:
  • Vendor and subcontractor coordination
  • Cost database research (e.g., RSMeans, MII)
  • Application of historical benchmarking data
• Prepare and contribute to:
  • Estimate reports
  • Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation
  • Assumptions, clarifications, and supporting backup
• Track design progression and incorporate updates into evolving estimates.
• Participate in project meetings, estimate reviews, and reconciliation efforts.
• Coordinate with internal disciplines to ensure alignment and completeness of estimate inputs.
• Assist in evaluating subcontractor bids, cost comparisons, and change order pricing.
• Maintain organized estimate files and documentation for auditability and QA/QC.
• Support QA/QC processes to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness of deliverables.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in:
• Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5–8 years of experience in construction estimating, with exposure to mechanical systems.
• Ability to:
• Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Perform independent quantity take-offs with accuracy.
• Understand system components and construction sequencing.
• Strong skills in:
• Microsoft Excel and data organization.
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving.
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems including HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate with team members and stakeholders.

Compensation Range

$95,000–$120,000 annually

What’s In It For You

• Company‑paid life and disability insurance
• Optional benefits such as pet insurance, legal, and supplemental health plans
• 401(k) with day‑one eligibility. You’ll get a 100% match on the first 3% of your eligible compensation and 50% match on contributions between 3% and 5% of your pay.
• Generous time off: 10 paid holidays and PTO starting at 15 days, growing up to 25.
• Access to Consertus Academy for continuous learning and development

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Consertus is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status.