Process Mechanical Estimator

Walsh Group; Louisville-Jefferson County (Balance) (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Walsh Group is seeking a Process Mechanical Estimator in Louisville, KY to develop accurate and timely proposals for heavy civil and industrial projects with a focus on process mechanical systems and equipment.

Role requires extensive experience in estimating, a strong background in process piping, and proficiency with industry estimating software; travel to project sites is anticipated.

Qualifications

• 10 years of mechanical estimating/construction experience, OR a relevant College Degree with 5 years of specialized experience.
• Strong background in estimating industrial process piping, pumps, valves, chemical feed systems, or wastewater/water treatment process equipment.
• Deep understanding of process equipment market conditions, volatile material costs, and vendor lead times.
• Advanced understanding of estimating software and digital takeoff tools.

Responsibilities

• Scope & Plan Review: develop understanding of process mechanical scopes and equipment costs.
• Quantity Takeoffs & Pricing: prepare detailed takeoffs and pricing for self-perform piping and systems.
• Constructability Assessment: assess constructability, spatial constraints, and equipment compatibility.
• Subcontractor & Vendor Solicitation: manage solicitations and evaluate quotes with project team.
• Multi-Delivery System Estimates: tailor estimates for Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, and Hard Bid.
• Post-Bid Buyout: assist with post-bid buyouts and vendor negotiations.
• Market Engagement: engage with process equipment suppliers and subcontractors.
• Compliance: ensure contract requirements for diversity and manufacturing certifications; travel to sites.

Skills

Process piping

Estimating software

Vendor coordination

Bid preparation

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Construction Management degree

Tools

HCSS HeavyBid

WinEst

Job description

OVERVIEW

We are currently seeking a Process Mechanical Estimator for our water division in Louisville, KY. The Process Mechanical Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and timely proposals and estimates for heavy civil and industrial projects, with a primary focus on Process Mechanical systems and Process Equipment. This role ensures that Walsh is a responsive bidder by driving precision in piping, instrumentation, and equipment scopes. Senior Estimators in this track are subject matter experts in specialized industrial trades or are training to become Lead Estimators on major mechanical-heavy projects. As a fourth-generation, family-owned business, Walsh recruits individuals who are seeking a small company feel with a large company backing. Walsh is a successful fast-growing company at the forefront of technology and is committed to being the employer of choice to our employees and the builder of choice to our customers. There are many compelling reasons why exceptional people should consider a career with our company: Challenging, complex work Creative and innovative problem-solving environment Supportive, communicative managers who reward hard work Opportunities for growth, training, and development Flexibility in career path & progression Opportunities to work and live all over the United States

RESPONSIBILITIES

Scope & Plan Review: Reviews complex project plans, P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), and technical specifications to develop a comprehensive understanding of process mechanical scopes, labor requirements, and specialized equipment costs.

Quantity Takeoffs & Pricing: Prepares detailed quantity takeoffs and production-based pricing for self-perform process piping, mechanical systems, and unit price estimating.

Constructability Assessment: Reviews bid documents and equipment data sheets to assess constructability, spatial constraints, rigging requirements, and product material compatibility.

Subcontractor & Vendor Solicitation: Initiates solicitations and high-level technical discussions with process equipment manufacturers and specialized mechanical subcontractors. Prepares comprehensive bid packages, performs detailed alignment/comparison of competitive vendor quotes, and analyzes supplier workload and performance.

Multi-Delivery System Estimates: Prepares process-heavy estimates tailored to multiple delivery systems (e.g., Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, Hard Bid) and reviews estimates collaboratively with the project management team.

Post-Bid Buyout: Assists project teams with critical post-bid mechanical buyouts and vendor negotiations.

Market Engagement: Initiates and participates in meet-and-greet presentations with key process equipment suppliers, fabricators, and regional mechanical subcontractors.

Compliance: Comprehends and ensures compliance with contract requirements for diversity and specialized manufacturing certifications Required to travel to project sites, fabrication shops, and regional offices for projects currently bidding across different regions.

QUALIFICATIONS

10 years of mechanical estimating/construction experience, OR a relevant College Degree (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management) with 5 years of specialized experience.

Technical Expertise: Strong background in estimating industrial process piping, pumps, valves, chemical feed systems, or wastewater/water treatment process equipment.

Market & Risk Intelligence: Deep understanding of process equipment market conditions, volatile material costs (e.g., stainless steel, specialized alloys), and vendor lead times.

Software Proficiency: Advanced understanding of industry-standard estimating software (e.g., HCSS HeavyBid, WinEst) and digital takeoff tools.

Collaboration: Proven ability to work independently on dedicated mechanical scopes while seamlessly coordinating with the overall Lead Estimator and multidisciplinary bidding teams.

Analytical Precision: Ability to identify subtle but critical scope gaps or differences in complex technical subcontractor and vendor quotations.

Effective presentation skills Excellent written and oral communicator

The Walsh Group, Ltd. Is committed to providing equal opportunity to qualified applicants with disabilities to compete for jobs. To request a reasonable accommodation in completing this application, please contact the Human Resources Department at 312-563-5905 or [e-mail]. An Equal Opportunity Employer, Disability/Veteran Salary Range Disclaimer Please note that job titles may span more than one career level. The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, including but not limited to: training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role may also be eligible for a bonus and other benefits. Founded in 1898, The Walsh Group is a fourth-generation family-owned business providing design, build, finance and operation services for a wide variety of construction projects. We are consistently listed among the largest contractors in the United States, operating out of 21 strategically located regional offices across North America. Our three companies are united by a shared dedication to exceptional customer service, while upholding the highest standards of ethics, quality and safety.