Senior Mechanical Estimator | Lead Preconstruction & Strategy

Walbridge; Detroit (MI); 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 from concept through final bid. You will mentor team members, ensure competitive and accurate estimates, and collaborate with design, procurement, and project teams to align cost strategy with client goals.

You will work from our Detroit HQ or regional offices and may travel to support pursuits. Strong knowledge of HVAC, piping, and mechanical systems, plus Excel and estimating software

Qualifications

• Licensed Journeyperson, or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related technical discipline (or equivalent experience).
• 4-year engineering degree or equivalent combinations of technical training and/or experience.
• 5+ years of estimating and/or engineering experience.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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 strong relationships with subcontractors and 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 project management, 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

Estimating

Leadership

Mechanical Engineering

Excel

Cost Control

Reading Drawings

Communication

BIM/VDC

Vendor Relations

Project Coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Licensed Journeyperson or related technical discipline

Tools

Estimating software

Cost Data Systems

CAD/BIM tools

Job description

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Mechanical Estimator to lead estimating efforts on large, complex projects from concept through final bid. You will mentor team members, ensure competitive and accurate estimates, and collaborate with design, procurement, and project teams to align cost strategy with client goals.

You will work from our Detroit HQ or regional offices and may travel to support pursuits. Strong knowledge of HVAC, piping, and mechanical systems, plus Excel and estimating software