Senior Mechanical Estimator

Walbridge; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating on large, complex projects from concept through GMP, shaping preconstruction strategy and client engagement.

You will mentor teams, drive cost leadership, and ensure accurate, competitive estimates across mechanical disciplines in industrial, commercial, or mission-critical settings.

Qualifications

• Experience leading mechanical estimating for large, complex projects.
• Strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in Excel and estimating software; able to read drawings and specs.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical estimating strategy for complex projects.
• Prepare shadow estimates from concept through GMP and final bid.
• Review drawings, specs, and bid documents to define scope and pricing.
• Develop general conditions estimates, budgets, and preliminary schedules.
• Maintain estimate backups and identify value engineering opportunities.
• Lead subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and scope validation.
• Build relationships with subcontractors and vendors; develop procurement strategies.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, job walks, and client presentations.
• Evaluate project risks, market conditions, and cost trends; lead multi-discipline coordination.

Skills

Mechanical estimating

Excel

Communication

Problem solving

Leadership

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Overview

The Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Mechanical Estimator to join the Walbridge team. In this role, you will lead mechanical estimating efforts on large, complex projects and play a key role in preconstruction strategy, cost leadership, and client engagement. You will provide technical direction, mentor team members, and ensure the accuracy and competitiveness of estimates that drive successful project outcomes.

Location

You will work from the Walbridge office in Charlotte, NC. Travel may be required based on project pursuits, client meetings, and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

Your Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead mechanical subcontractor and mechanical estimating strategy for complex projects.
• Partner with senior leadership to develop bid, pursuit, and design-build/CM proposal strategies.
• Provide technical leadership, mentor team members, and support estimating best practices.
• Evaluate design options and apply lean construction principles to improve project outcomes.

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare shadow estimates and oversee mechanical subcontractor estimates from concept through GMP and final bid.
• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to define scope, takeoffs, and pricing.
• Develop general conditions estimates, budgets, bulletins, RFIs, and preliminary schedules.
• Maintain estimate backup documentation and identify value engineering opportunities.

Subcontractor & Market Engagement

• Lead subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and scope validation.
• Build strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors and develop procurement strategies.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, job walks, and client presentations.

Cost Analysis & Risk Management

• Evaluate project risks, market conditions, and cost trends to inform estimates.Mechanical design-build experience preferred.
• Significant experience in mechanical estimating within commercial, industrial, or mission-critical construction environments.
• Advanced knowledge of plumbing, HVAC, heavy process piping, estimating techniques, and cost control, plus the ability to interpret computerized cost data and systems.
• Ability to read specifications and drawings.
• Process piping experience, including high-pressure heavy-wall piping systems, code piping, and refinery piping.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex estimates and coordinate multi-discipline efforts.
• Communication, presentation, and teaching skills, both written and oral.
• Knowledge of the Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) divisions and Federal, State, and Local health and safety regulations, and how they affect the cost of a project.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating software/tools.
• Effective communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading estimates for large-scale or complex projects (e.g., data centers, manufacturing, automotive).
• Ability to cultivate strong relationships with the local and regional mechanical subcontractor market.
• Experience mentoring or managing estimating team members.
• Familiarity with BIM/VDC tools and digital estimating platforms.

Excited to make an impact?