Senior Mechanical Estimator: Lead Large-Scale Projects

Walbridge; Mississippi; 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, shaping preconstruction strategy and cost leadership. You will mentor teams, ensure accurate, competitive estimates, and coordinate with project leadership and clients.

Based at Walbridge headquarters or regional offices, the role emphasizes collaboration across engineering, VDC, and field teams, with travel as needed. Strong reading of specs and lean principles are essential.

Qualifications

• 4-year engineering degree or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of estimating and/or engineering experience.
• Mechanical design-build experience preferred.
• Experience estimating within commercial/industrial/missions-critical environments.
• Ability to read specifications and drawings.
• Proficiency with Excel and estimating software/tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical subcontractor and estimating strategy for complex projects.
• Develop bid, pursuit, and design-build/CM proposal strategies with senior leadership.
• Provide technical leadership and mentor team members.
• Evaluate design options and apply lean construction principles.
• Prepare shadow estimates and oversee subcontractor estimates from concept through GMP.
• Review drawings and bid documents to define scope, takeoffs, and pricing.
• Develop general conditions estimates, budgets, RFIs, and schedules.
• Maintain estimate backups and identify value engineering opportunities.
• Lead subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and scope validation.
• Build relationships with subcontractors and vendors; procure strategies.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, job walks, and client presentations.
• Assess risks, market conditions, and cost trends to inform estimates.
• Prepare estimate reviews including overhead, profit, and key assumptions.
• Assess design-build, insurance, bonding, and contract risks.
• Support contingency pricing and extra work negotiations.
• Collaborate with project management, engineering, VDC, and field teams.
• Develop project schedules from bid documents and manage design to budget.
• Support project handoff and client presentations.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Cost control

Proposal strategy

Communication

Team mentoring

Reading drawings

Education

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

4-year engineering degree or equivalent

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

BIM/VDC tools

Cost data systems

Job description

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating efforts on large, complex projects, shaping preconstruction strategy and cost leadership. You will mentor teams, ensure accurate, competitive estimates, and coordinate with project leadership and clients.

Based at Walbridge headquarters or regional offices, the role emphasizes collaboration across engineering, VDC, and field teams, with travel as needed. Strong reading of specs and lean principles are essential.