Mechanical Preconstruction Estimator

ewi Recruitment; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ewi Recruitment seeks a Mechanical Preconstruction Estimator to support delivery of commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects in Orlando. You will develop accurate estimates for HVAC, plumbing, and related mechanical works, collaborating with design, procurement, and project teams.

You will review tender documents, interpret drawings and specifications, prepare bills of quantities, and benchmark costs.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in mechanical estimating or preconstruction.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, construction methods, labour requirements, materials, and subcontractor procurement.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications and use estimating software and spreadsheets.
• Excellent numerical, analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Desirable relevant technical or construction qualifications; equivalent practical experience considered.

Responsibilities

• Review tender documents, drawings, specifications, and technical schedules.
• Identify project risks, omissions, and opportunities; develop pricing submissions.
• Prepare detailed bills of quantities and cost plans; obtain supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Contribute to value engineering, feasibility studies, and early contractor involvement.
• Maintain estimating databases and benchmark costs; support negotiations and clarifications.
• Present estimates and recommendations to senior stakeholders; challenge assumptions constructively.

Skills

Mechanical estimating

Preconstruction experience

Reading drawings & specs

Estimating software

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Mechanical or construction qualifications

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

We are seeking a Mechanical Preconstruction Estimator to support the successful delivery of commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects from early concept through to contract award. This role will be responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and commercially sound estimates for mechanical building services, including HVAC, plumbing, heating, ventilation, plant rooms, public health systems, and associated installation works. You will work closely with design, procurement, project management, and specialist subcontractor teams to ensure estimates reflect the project scope, programme, construction methodology, and current market conditions.

Key responsibilities will include reviewing tender documents, drawings, specifications, and technical schedules; identifying project risks, omissions, and opportunities; preparing detailed bills of quantities and cost plans; obtaining and assessing supplier and subcontractor quotations; and building clear, traceable pricing submissions. You will contribute to value engineering exercises, feasibility studies, design development reviews, and early contractor involvement activities. The role will also involve maintaining estimating databases, benchmarking historical project costs, preparing tender clarifications, supporting commercial negotiations, and presenting estimates and recommendations to senior stakeholders. You will be expected to challenge assumptions constructively and help develop practical, cost-effective solutions that meet technical and programme requirements.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in mechanical estimating or preconstruction, ideally within a building services, construction, engineering, or specialist contracting environment. A strong understanding of mechanical systems, construction methods, labour requirements, materials, and subcontractor procurement is essential. You should be confident interpreting technical drawings and specifications, using estimating or quantity-surveying software, and working with spreadsheets and digital tender platforms. Excellent numerical, analytical, organisational, and communication skills are required, together with a commercial mindset and close attention to detail. Relevant technical or construction qualifications are desirable, although equivalent practical experience will be considered. This is an opportunity for a proactive professional who can manage multiple tenders, meet deadlines, and make a meaningful contribution to project strategy before construction begins.