Senior Estimator - Mechanical Construction

CyberCoders; Newport News (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee stock ownership

401(k) with match

Health, dental, vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Tax-free spending accounts

Paid holidays

Legal resources

PTO and leave

Tuition assistance

Volunteer time off

Job summary

CyberCoders is seeking a Senior Estimator specializing in mechanical construction to lead estimates for plumbing, HVAC, and MEP projects in commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. You will perform detailed takeoffs, develop cost components, analyze drawings and RFPs, and coordinate with project teams and subcontractors to produce competitive bids.

The role requires 7+ years of experience, proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff and leading estimating software, and the ability to mentor

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive estimating experience in mechanical construction (plumbing, HVAC, MEP)
• Proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff and digital takeoff workflows; experience with Sage Estimating, Trimble, Hard Dollar, or equivalent
• Deep technical knowledge of mechanical systems, materials, installation methods, codes and testing requirements
• Proven skills in preparing competitive bids, cost analyses, and clear, well-documented estimate assumptions
• Excellent reading and interpretation of construction drawings and specifications, including MEP coordination plans
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for pricing models, assemblies and reporting
• Strong negotiation, communication and organizational skills; ability to collaborate across disciplines and manage deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to mentor less-experienced staff and to conduct thorough QA/QC of estimates

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates and bid proposals for mechanical scopes including plumbing, HVAC and MEP work
• Perform quantity takeoffs and digital measurements using On-Screen Takeoff
• Develop labor, material, equipment and subcontractor cost components; build and maintain cost databases
• Analyze drawings, specs, and RFPs to identify scope, exclusions and constructability issues
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotations; negotiate pricing
• Lead value engineering efforts and recommend cost-saving alternatives while maintaining code compliance
• Prepare and present bid summaries, assumptions, risk registers and recommendations to leadership
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers and field personnel to validate estimating assumptions
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits and walkthroughs for accurate pricing
• Mentor and train junior estimators; review QA/QC of estimates
• Track bid activity and update estimating databases with project outcomes

Skills

Estimating

Mech construction

Bid proposals

Excel skills

Mentoring

Leadership

Education

Diploma in Construction Management

Mechanical Engineering Technology degree

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Sage Estimating

Trimble

Hard Dollar

Job description

Senior Estimator - Mechanical Construction

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator specializing in mechanical construction to lead the preparation of accurate, competitive cost estimates for commercial, industrial, and institutional plumbing, HVAC and MEP projects. The Senior Estimator will produce detailed takeoffs and bids, develop pricing strategies, collaborate with project teams and subcontractors, and support preconstruction planning to win profitable work and reduce project risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare complete, detailed estimates and bid proposals for mechanical scopes including plumbing, HVAC and related MEP work.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and digital measurements using On-Screen Takeoff and similar takeoff software to produce accurate material and labor quantities.
• Develop labor, material, equipment and subcontractor cost components; build and maintain assembly/unit cost databases and estimate templates.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and RFP requirements to identify scope, exclusions, allowances and constructability issues; request clarifications as needed.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotations; negotiate pricing and ensure compliance with bid requirements.
• Lead value engineering efforts and recommend cost-saving alternatives while maintaining code compliance and design intent.
• Prepare and present bid summaries, assumptions, risk registers and recommendation reports to senior leadership and project teams.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers and field personnel to validate estimating assumptions and ensure smooth project handover at award.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site visits and walkthroughs to verify conditions and gather information for accurate pricing.
• Mentor and train junior estimators; review and QA/QC estimates prepared by others to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Track bid activity, maintain bid calendar and historical pricing records; continuously update estimating databases based on project outcomes.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive estimating experience in mechanical construction (plumbing, HVAC, MEP) with a strong track record of winning bids on commercial/industrial projects.
• Proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff and digital takeoff workflows; experience with common estimating and project management software (e.g., Sage Estimating, Trimble, Hard Dollar, or equivalent).
• Deep technical knowledge of mechanical systems, materials, installation methods, codes and testing requirements.
• Proven skills in preparing competitive bids, cost analyses, and clear, well-documented estimate assumptions.
• Excellent reading and interpretation of construction drawings and specifications, including MEP coordination plans.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for pricing models, assemblies and reporting.
• Strong negotiation, communication and organizational skills; ability to collaborate across disciplines and manage competing deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor less-experienced staff and to conduct thorough QA/QC of estimates.
• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering Technology or a related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Willingness to attend site visits and pre-bid meetings; valid drivers license and ability to travel as required.

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Retirement Plan
• 401(k) Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability & Accident Insurance
• Tax-free Spending Accounts (Health and Dependent Care)
• Paid Holidays
• Legal Resources
• PTO - Paid Time Off, Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Assistance
• PTO for Community Volunteering