Senior Mechanical Estimator - Lead Costing for MEP Projects

Upchurch; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Holiday pay

Professional development

Certification assistance

Job summary

Upchurch is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating for mechanical, sheet metal, plumbing, and piping projects across commercial and industrial sectors. This role requires deep experience with takeoffs, pricing, and bid development, coordinating with preconstruction teams, vendors, and subcontractors.

The candidate will identify risks, perform value engineering, and support successful project delivery from preconstruction through handoff, ensuring competitive, accurate proposals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8–12+ years of mechanical, sheet metal, plumbing, or piping estimating experience in the construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, sheet metal/ductwork, plumbing systems, and piping systems (carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, PVC, HDPE, etc.), fittings, valves, fixtures, duct accessories, and installation methods.
• Proficiency with estimating software (AutoBid,Bluebeam).
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical plans, plumbing plans, sheet metal/ductwork drawings, P&IDs, isometrics, and related specifications.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Knowledge of ASME piping codes (e.g., B31 series) (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of cost estimates for mechanical, sheet metal, plumbing, and piping scopes.
• Perform detailed material, labor, and equipment takeoffs from drawings.
• Develop conceptual budgets, ROM estimates, and design-build pricing.
• Solicit, review, and level vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Analyze scope, specifications, and constructability to identify risks, gaps, and cost drivers.
• Prepare detailed bid proposals, clarifications, and value engineering options.
• Coordinate scope coverage across mechanical, sheet metal, plumbing, and piping disciplines to ensure complete and accurate bid packages.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and client discussions.
• Support project handoff meetings and assist operations with budget validation.
• Review and prepare change order pricing post-award as required.
• Maintain historical cost data and contribute to estimating standards and best practices.
• All other duties as assigned

Skills

Estimating experience

Mechanical knowledge

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field

Tools

AutoBid

Bluebeam

Job description

Upchurch is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating for mechanical, sheet metal, plumbing, and piping projects across commercial and industrial sectors. This role requires deep experience with takeoffs, pricing, and bid development, coordinating with preconstruction teams, vendors, and subcontractors.

The candidate will identify risks, perform value engineering, and support successful project delivery from preconstruction through handoff, ensuring competitive, accurate proposals.