Mechanical & Process Systems Estimator

Therma; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) Plan with company match

Health & Wellness Benefits

Flexible vacation policy

Job summary

Therma, a Legence Company, is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our team in San José, CA. This full-time role focuses on providing accurate cost estimates for various construction projects, requiring strong analytical skills and technical knowledge.

As an Estimator, you will collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other team members to ensure successful project outcomes. Compensation ranges between $140k and $175k, with excellent benefits including 401(k), health coverage, and more.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years field experience in mechanical, plumbing, or process piping industry.
• Basic knowledge of piping codes.
• Experience in construction and mechanical systems industry.

Responsibilities

• Provide accurate cost estimates for projects.
• Analyze project documents to prepare estimates.
• Collaborate with project teams effectively.

Skills

Estimating medium to large projects

Knowledge of MCAA

Use of estimating software (Trimble AutoBid, etc.)

Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

Communication with project teams

Education

College degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Estimating software

Bluebeam

Adobe PDF applications

Autodesk AutoCAD & Revit

Job description

Therma, a Legence Company. For over 50 years, Therma has continued to redefine the mechanical construction landscapes in California. Renowned for outstanding client service and attention to detail, we balance innovative, facility‑specific solutions with a pragmatic, cost‑conscious approach. Today, the firm employs more than 1,100 people in 3 regional offices, and its clients represent a diverse range of market sectors, including Biopharmaceutical, Education, Healthcare, Food & Beverage, Commercial, Industrial and Data Center facilities. Our culture is open, innovative, collaborative, and fun – all reflected in recognition of Therma as a #1 Best Place to Work on multiple occasions. We create an environment that empowers & challenges employees, giving them the greatest opportunity to succeed.

Therma is a leader in delivering innovative mechanical, plumbing, and process piping solutions across some of the most complex and technically demanding projects in the industry. We’re looking for an experienced Estimator who wants to do more than just build numbers—you’ll help define project strategy, drive competitive positioning, and influence which work we pursue and win. In this role, your expertise will directly impact project success, business growth, and the strength of our client partnerships.

Note: Active union members may apply and will be considered equally to non‑union applicants. Foremen, general foremen, and superintendents are encouraged to apply for this estimating position. Field experience will be considered if a professional estimating position has never been held.

Position Details

• Full‑time, in‑office – San José, CA.
• Compensation: $140k – $175k.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely and accurate cost estimates of labor and materials for new construction or maintenance projects.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to prepare time, cost, and labor estimates.
• Collaborate with peer estimators, project managers, engineers, detailers, and vendors.
• Manage project management team expectations through written and verbal communication.
• Use estimating software and tools to perform project takeoffs; estimate work manually using takeoffs, labor, and hour calculations when needed.
• Ensure accuracy of all components of estimating spreadsheets, including correct labor hours, rates, internal cost allocations, assumptions, material, transportation, and other services.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and company policies.
• Attend job walks, bid reviews, and meetings as required.

Job Requirements

• Experience in construction, mechanical & process systems industry.
• Experience estimating medium to large projects.
• Knowledge of MCAA.
• Experience using estimating software such as Trimble AutoBid, Highlands Construction Software, QuoteSoft, or equivalent.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project).
• Review customer requests for quotes for both deliverable and quality requirements.
• Communicate with customers and project teams to define requirements and expectations accurately.
• Consolidate all outside costs and internal costs associated with fabrication and installation.
• Create detailed estimate packages with supporting documentation for final review.
• Write clarification letters for estimates performed.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Education / Experience

• Knowledge of construction industry.
• 5‑10 years field experience in Mechanical, Plumbing, or Process Piping industry.
• Basic knowledge of piping codes.
• College degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (preferred).
• Experience with Bluebeam and Adobe PDF applications.
• Basic knowledge of Autodesk AutoCAD & Revit navigation of drawings/models (preferred).

Critical Competencies

• Organized: Sense of urgency with the ability to set priorities and build action plans for timely execution.
• Problem‑solving: Identify patterns beyond noise, engage by asking questions, and drive toward logical conclusions and decision points.
• Agile: Shift between self‑reliance and cross‑group collaboration while supporting others’ success.
• Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles for providing customer and personal services.
• Writing: Communicate effectively in writing as appropriate for the audience.
• Active Listening: Give full attention to others, ask questions when appropriate.
• Coordination: Adjust actions in relation to others’ actions.

What This Role Is

• A high‑impact, highly visible role directly influencing project wins and business performance.
• A blend of technical analysis and real‑world construction insight.
• A collaborative partnership role with operations, engineering, and leadership.
• An opportunity to work on complex, meaningful mechanical/process projects.

What This Role Isn’t

• Purely administrative or data entry; it requires critical thinking and ownership.
• Isolated work; engagement with teams and stakeholders is required.
• Entry‑level; hands‑on field or estimating experience is needed.
• Limited in scope; visibility into full project lifecycle is provided.

Benefits Overview

• 401(k) Plan with company match: dollar‑for‑dollar up to 4% of eligible pay, immediate vesting.
• Health & Wellness Benefits: Employer‑provided medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, Employee Assistance Program, and accident & illness coverage.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and AD&D; optional voluntary buy‑up.
• Time Off: Flexible non‑accrual vacation, separate from CA sick leave, plus company holidays.
• Business travel and related expenses reimbursed per company policy.

Employment Eligibility

Candidates must have current work authorization in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Legence and its affiliate companies are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital or familial status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other characteristic protected under applicable local, state, or federal laws and regulations. EEO is the law.

Reasonable Accommodations

If you need assistance or accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at [e-mail] or your dedicated recruiter with the job title and requisition number.

Third‑Party Recruiting Disclaimer

Legence and its affiliates do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Any such submissions without a prior signed agreement authorized by Legence Holdings LLC’s CHRO or Director of Talent Acquisition will not incur fees and are considered property of Legence.

Pay Disclosure & Considerations

Where pay ranges are indicated, the successful candidate’s exact pay will be determined based on relevant job‑related factors, including experience, skills, qualifications, and geographic and market considerations. We are committed to ensuring fair and competitive compensation for all employees and comply with all applicable salary transparency laws.