Sr Estimator (Mechanical Contractor) | HVAC

Ilocatum; Danbury (CT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Ilocatum invites applications for a Senior Mechanical Estimator based in Danbury, CT. The role focuses on taking-offs, cost analysis, and bid strategy for industrial, HVAC, and piping projects.

You will coordinate across estimating, operations, and procurement to ensure competitive, accurate bids. The ideal candidate offers 10+ years of estimating experience, strong knowledge of Design-Build and Plan & Spec delivery, and proficiency with estimating software and on-screen takeoff tools.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of mechanical estimating experience, preferably in industrial, HVAC, and/or plumbing systems.
• Proven experience estimating process piping projects.
• Strong knowledge of Design-Build and Plan & Spec project delivery methods.
• Proficiency with estimating software and on-screen takeoff tools.
• Ability to produce accurate, competitive, timely estimates.

Responsibilities

• Participate in pre-bid meetings and scope reviews to understand project requirements.
• Review bid documents, drawings, and specifications.
• Identify, solicit, and manage subcontractor and vendor quotations.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using on-screen estimating software.
• Collaborate with estimators, operations teams, and internal departments.
• Prepare clear and detailed scope narratives to support proposals.
• Provide post-award support to field operations and ensure smooth transition from estimate to execution.
• Balance high-level project understanding with attention to detail.

Skills

Mechanical estimating

HVAC systems

Piping systems

Estimating software

Communication

Tools

On-screen takeoff tools

Spreadsheet applications

Job description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Participate in pre-bid meetings and scope reviews to fully understand project requirements, even when initial information is limited
• Review and interpret all project bid documents, drawings, and specifications
• Identify, solicit, and manage subcontractor and vendor quotations for outsourced scopes of work
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs using on-screen estimating software within required timelines
• Collaborate cross-functionally with estimators, operations teams, and internal departments
• Compile, analyze, and finalize comprehensive estimates, ensuring accuracy and adherence to bid deadlines
• Participate in internal bid-day reviews with leadership to validate pricing, scope, and strategy
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals for scope completeness, compliance, and schedule alignment
• Develop value engineering options that align with client goals and project efficiency
• Prepare clear and detailed scope narratives to support proposals
• Provide post-award support to field operations, ensuring a smooth transition from estimate to execution
• Manage multiple bid schedules and consistently meet proposal deadlines
• Proactively identify project requirements and cost drivers, even with limited input data
• Balance high‑level project understanding with strong attention to detail to ensure client satisfaction

Qualifications & Requirements

• 10+ years of mechanical estimating experience, preferably in industrial, HVAC, and/or plumbing systems
• Proven experience estimating process piping projects
• Strong knowledge of both Design-Build and Plan & Spec project delivery methods
• Proficiency with estimating software, on-screen takeoff tools, and spreadsheet applications
• Ability to produce accurate, competitive, and timely estimates with minimal information
• Strong understanding of cost structures and requirements for Design-Build projects
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders
• In‑depth knowledge of HVAC, industrial systems, and piping systems

Preferred:

• Experience in heavy industrial mechanical estimating environments
• Advanced expertise in process piping estimation