Project Estimator

Smart Care Equipment Solutions; Illinois; On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Smart Care Equipment Solutions is seeking a Project Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for commercial refrigeration projects. You will work with customers, project managers, sales reps, vendors, and engineering teams to analyze requirements, develop detailed proposals, and support bid-to-handhand activities.

The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of commercial refrigeration systems, solid analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial refrigeration, HVAC, or related construction.
• Strong understanding of refrigeration systems, equipment, piping, controls, and installation methods.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specs, and contract documents.
• Proficient in Excel and estimating software.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication and ability to manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, and bid documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Prepare detailed proposals, bid packages, and pricing summaries.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, and value engineering opportunities.
• Collaborate with sales and project management teams during bidding.
• Stay informed of industry trends, product changes, and codes.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.

Skills

Estimating experience

Excel proficiency

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project coordination

Reading drawings/specifications

Education

Bachelors or Associate degree in Construction Management or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Excel

Project management software

Job description

Position Summary

The Project Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial refrigeration projects. This role works closely with customers, project managers, sales representatives, vendors, and engineering teams to analyze project requirements, develop detailed proposals, and support successful project execution from bid through handoff. The ideal candidate has strong technical knowledge of commercial refrigeration systems, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities

• Review project plans, specifications, and bid documents.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and develop accurate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Prepare detailed project proposals, bid packages, and pricing summaries.
• Identify project risks, exclusions, and value engineering opportunities.
• Collaborate with sales and project management teams during the bidding process.
• Participate in pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and customer consultations as needed.
• Maintain current pricing databases and estimating software.
• Track bid results and analyze estimating performance to improve future accuracy.
• Assist with project turnover meetings to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to operations.
• Stay informed of industry trends, product changes, and applicable building codes and refrigeration standards.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of estimating experience in commercial refrigeration, HVAC, mechanical contracting, or a related construction field.
• Strong understanding of commercial refrigeration systems, equipment, piping, controls, and installation methods.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Experience with estimating software is preferred.
• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating supermarket refrigeration systems, cold storage facilities, food service refrigeration, or industrial refrigeration projects.
• Knowledge of refrigeration codes and industry standards.
• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field (preferred but not required).

About Smart Care

Smart Care is a national repair and service provider for commercial foodservice, refrigeration, and cold storage equipment. Our services include hot side cooking equipment, stand‑alone refrigeration, specialty coffee and beverage, complex rack refrigeration, and HVAC.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Smart Care is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected class status. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. If you need a reasonable accommodation with respect to Smart Care’s application or hiring process due to a disability, please contact the Human Resources department at [e-mail].