Senior Plumbing Estimator — Lead Budgets & VE

Upchurch; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off & holidays

Certification assistance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Upchurch is hiring a Senior Plumbing Estimator to lead plumbing and mechanical cost estimates for commercial and industrial construction projects. You will evaluate drawings, specs, and project requirements to deliver accurate, competitive estimates and identify value-engineering opportunities.

The role collaborates with preconstruction, project management, vendors, and subcontractors to support project awards and execution, with travel expected for site visits and pre-bid meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8–12+ years of plumbing or mechanical estimating experience in construction.
• Strong knowledge of plumbing/HVAC systems, materials, labor productivity, and installation methods.
• Proficiency with estimating software (AutoBid, Bluebeam).
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and schedules.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of plumbing and mechanical cost estimates for commercial and industrial construction projects.
• Perform detailed material, labor, and equipment takeoffs from drawings and specifications.
• Develop conceptual and design-build budgets during early project phases.
• Solicit, review, and level vendor and subcontractor pricing.
• Analyze project risks, scope gaps, and constructability issues.
• Prepare detailed bid proposals, clarifications, and value engineering options.
• Collaborate with project management and operations during handoff and project start-up.
• Maintain historical cost data and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating tools and processes.
• Review change order pricing and support post-award estimating as needed.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and client presentations as required.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication

Leadership abilities

Reading mechanical drawings

Education

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

Tools

AutoBid

Bluebeam

Job description

Upchurch is hiring a Senior Plumbing Estimator to lead plumbing and mechanical cost estimates for commercial and industrial construction projects. You will evaluate drawings, specs, and project requirements to deliver accurate, competitive estimates and identify value-engineering opportunities.

The role collaborates with preconstruction, project management, vendors, and subcontractors to support project awards and execution, with travel expected for site visits and pre-bid meetings.