Remote Chief Estimator: Lead Bids & HVAC Projects

Vertical Mechanical Group Inc; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Benefits package

PTO & holidays

401(k) retirement plan with match

Leadership growth opportunity

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and drive preconstruction success. You will oversee all estimates and proposals, ensuring alignment with business objectives and acting as a key liaison between project management, operations, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in mechanical or general construction estimating, strong leadership, deep HVAC/Plumbing knowledge, and proficiency with estimating software.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive estimating experience in mechanical or general construction.
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing an estimating team or department.
• In-depth understanding of mechanical systems, construction methods, and cost drivers in commercial HVAC and Plumbing.
• Proficient in estimating software and construction management tools.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience working collaboratively with project managers, engineers, and executives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of estimators, ensuring the development of accurate, detailed, and competitive estimates.
• Oversee preparation of budgets, conceptual estimates, and hard bids for commercial HVAC and Plumbing projects.
• Review all major estimates for consistency, accuracy, and completeness prior to executive review and submission.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align estimating strategies with broader project execution plans.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers to ensure reliable pricing and value-added solutions.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement systems and tools to enhance department efficiency.
• Lead preconstruction meetings and assist in project hand-offs to operations teams.
• Analyze industry trends, market conditions, and historical data to improve bid competitiveness and accuracy.
• Represent VMG in high-level bid reviews, presentations, and negotiations with clients and partners.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Written and verbal communication

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Estimating software

Construction management tools

Job description

Vertical Mechanical Group is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead the estimating department and drive preconstruction success. You will oversee all estimates and proposals, ensuring alignment with business objectives and acting as a key liaison between project management, operations, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in mechanical or general construction estimating, strong leadership, deep HVAC/Plumbing knowledge, and proficiency with estimating software.