Sr. Estimator/Estimator

5F Mechanical Group Inc.; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

5F Mechanical Group Inc. is seeking a detail-oriented Mechanical Estimator to join our preconstruction team.

You will prepare cost estimates for HVAC, plumbing, and piping on commercial and industrial projects, incorporating union wage rules and prevailing wage requirements. The role requires 3–7+ years of estimating experience in union or prevailing wage environments, strong reading of drawings and specs, and proficiency with leading estimating software.

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of mechanical estimating experience in union or prevailing wage environments.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical piping systems.
• Proficient in estimating software and cost data management.
• Familiarity with union labor agreements and public project compliance.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specs, and contracts.

Responsibilities

• Analyze project plans, specifications, and docs to prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Perform material takeoffs, labor calculations, and pricing comparisons.
• Apply union labor rates, crew compositions, and jurisdictional rules.
• Evaluate prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for public works.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop complete scopes and budgets.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and bid reviews.
• Maintain historical cost data and estimation tools.
• Identify value engineering opportunities to reduce costs.
• Assist in post-bid negotiations and handoff to operations.

Skills

Mechanical estimating

HVAC

Plumbing

Piping

Reading drawings/specs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Tools

Trimble Autobid

FastPIPE

FastDUCT

QuoteSoft

Bluebeam

Job description

5F Mechanical is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Mechanical Estimator to join our preconstruction team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately estimating mechanical systems including HVAC, plumbing, and piping for commercial and industrial projects. Experience with union labor environments and prevailing wage projects is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost estimates for mechanical systems.
• Perform material takeoffs, labor calculations, and vendor/subcontractor pricing comparisons.
• Incorporate union labor rates, crew compositions, and jurisdictional rules into estimates.
• Evaluate and apply prevailing wage rates and fringe benefit requirements for public works and government-funded projects.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and subcontractors to develop complete project scopes and budgets.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and bid reviews as required.
• Maintain and update historical cost data and estimation tools.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative construction methods to reduce costs.
• Assist in post-bid negotiations and handoff to operations teams.

Required Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of mechanical estimating experience in union or prevailing wage environments.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical piping systems.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., Trimble Autobid, FastPIPE/FastDUCT, QuoteSoft, Bluebeam).
• Familiarity with union labor agreements and public project compliance requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specs, and contracts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• Experience working with local trade unions and labor compliance teams.
• Knowledge of certified payroll reporting and Davis-Bacon Act requirements.
• Familiarity with BIM and coordination tools (e.g., Navisworks, Revit).
• Knowledge of local codes, regulations, and permitting processes.