Mechanical Estimator III

Horwitz; New Hope (MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Horwitz is seeking a Mechanical Estimator III to develop detailed cost estimates for plumbing, piping, and sheet metal systems across commercial and industrial projects. You will collaborate with project teams, trade partners, vendors, and clients to ensure scope clarity and cost certainty.

The role requires advanced Excel and estimating software proficiency, the ability to read drawings and specifications, and experience with bid development.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Estimating, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent experience.
• 2 years of estimating or construction experience in a mechanical contracting environment preferred.
• Advanced MS Excel & Office Suite proficiency.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Experience with estimating software such as QuoteSoft or FastEST is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze project drawings, specifications, and narratives to develop material and labor take-offs.
• Prepare competitive cost estimates for mechanical systems including plumbing, piping, and HVAC using estimating software and Excel.
• Conduct bid breakouts and communicate with vendors, subcontractors, and clients to ensure scope clarity.
• Write concise and technically accurate proposals reflecting scope, inclusions, and clarifications.
• Coordinate with project teams to understand constructability and logistical requirements for pricing.

Job description

Position Overview:

The Mechanical Estimator III plays a critical role in the success of Horwitz’s preconstruction efforts. This individual is responsible for preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates for plumbing, piping, and sheet metal systems across a wide range of commercial and industrial construction projects. Collaborating closely with internal project teams, trade partners, vendors, and clients, the Estimator ensures scope clarity and cost certainty.

Key Responsibilities

These responsibilities generally describe the nature of the position and may not be all inclusive

• Estimating & Proposal Development
  • Analyze project drawings, specifications, and design narratives to develop thorough material and labor take-offs

• • Utilize estimating software and Excel to prepare competitive cost estimates for mechanical systems, including plumbing, piping, and HVAC

• • Utilize GMP calculator for analysis onfee basedprojects

• • Utilize budget spreadsheet for preliminaryhigh levelbudgets

• • Perform bid breakouts at the request of general contractors

• • Write concise and technically accurate proposals reflecting the project scope, assumptions, inclusions, and clarifications
• Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination
  • Contact and solicit pricing from vendors and suppliers for major equipment and materials

• • Communicate with trade partners such as temperature controls, insulation, and balancing contractors to incorporate complete system pricing

• Client Interaction & Collaboration
  • Coordinate directly with clients during preconstruction to discuss upcoming opportunities, clarify scopes, or review past estimates

• • Attend pre-estimate jobsite walkthroughs and customer meetings to verify conditions and ensure scope alignment

• Internal Team Integration
  • Work closely with Project Managers to understand constructability and logistical requirements for accurate pricing

• • Perform complete estimate review of the project managers and precon estimates under $1M

• • Perform preliminary gameplan meeting for estimates

• • Participate in internal estimate review meetings to validate assumptions and confirm cost accuracy

• • Support tracking and historical data review for future pricing and project benchmarking

• • Work with project managers in the development of cost codes

• • Projects over $1,000,000 require final estimate review with Chief Estimator

• • Support team with training and guidance as necessary
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Conduct yourself in accordance with Horwitz core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do and Curious
• Get better every day

Skills &Abilities

• Advanced working knowledge of mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, piping)

• Strong working knowledge of lab/medical gas system and process piping systems

• Experience with QuoteSoft,FastEST or other estimating software preferred

• Advanced MS Excel & Office Suite proficiency

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents

• Advanced BlueBeam proficiency

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and prioritization skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication

• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team

• Effective time management under tight deadlines with multiple active bids

Education & Experience

• Associate’sorBachelor’s degree in Estimating, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent experience
• 2 years of estimating or construction experience in a mechanical contracting environment preferred

Licenses

• Valid driver’s license with a motor vehicle record in compliance with company policy

Travel

• Occasional local travel for jobsite visits and project walkthroughs