Senior Mechanical Estimator: Lead Complex Projects & Strategy

Walbridge; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating efforts on large, complex projects, guiding preconstruction strategy, cost leadership, and client engagement. You will provide technical direction, mentor teammates, and ensure accurate, competitive estimates that drive successful outcomes.

You will coordinate with subcontractors, review drawings and specs, develop budgets, and manage risk and contingencies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years of estimating/engineering experience.
• Strong knowledge of plumbing, HVAC, heavy process piping, estimating techniques and cost control.
• Ability to read specifications and drawings.
• Experience in commercial, industrial, or mission-critical construction environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical estimating strategy for complex projects.
• 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.
• 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.
• Lead subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and scope validation.
• Build relationships with subcontractors/vendors and develop procurement strategies.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, job walks, and client presentations.
• Evaluate project risks, market conditions, and cost trends to inform estimates.
• Prepare estimate reviews including overhead, profit, and key commercial assumptions.
• Assess design-build, insurance, bonding, and contract-related risks.
• Support contingency planning, change pricing, and extra work negotiations.
• Partner with PM, engineering, VDC, and field teams to align estimate and execution.
• Develop project schedules from bid documents and manage design to budget.
• Support project handoff and client presentations.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Cost control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related

Licensed Journeyperson (preferred)

4-year engineering degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Estimating software

BIM/VDC tools

Job description

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating efforts on large, complex projects, guiding preconstruction strategy, cost leadership, and client engagement. You will provide technical direction, mentor teammates, and ensure accurate, competitive estimates that drive successful outcomes.

You will coordinate with subcontractors, review drawings and specs, develop budgets, and manage risk and contingencies.