Senior Mechanical Estimator (Baltimore Based)

COMPANY OVERVIEW
My client is a leading mechanical contractor in the eastern United States, operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of a major national corporation. Their construction and service expertise spans a wide range of commercial and government projects, including data centers, hospitals, sports stadiums, convention centers, hotels, and research laboratories.

POSITION OVERVIEW - SENIOR ESTIMATOR
The Senior Estimator plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining robust estimating systems and procedures. This position involves building and nurturing professional relationships across internal teams and external stakeholders, including customers, vendors, suppliers, manufacturers, and subcontractors, all grounded in mutual respect, trust, and integrity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with the Vice President of Preconstruction and Divisional Managers.
• Coordinate with Project Managers and Superintendents to stay informed on field practices and conduct site visits to compare estimated vs. actual costs.
• Develop detailed project budgets with clear assumptions and clarifications.
• Prepare accurate estimates using industry-standard methods (e.g., fixed-price, GMP, IPD, unit price, T&M, cost-plus, incentive contracts).
• Draft scope letters and preconstruction documentation to support estimates and respond to RFPs.
• Present value engineering and cost-saving opportunities to meet budget constraints.
• Maintain and update estimating databases (e.g., wage rates, labor factors, equipment rentals, subcontractor costs).
• Review all estimates with the Vice President of Preconstruction.
• Finalize estimates with a focus on accuracy, cost-saving opportunities, and scheduling.
• Support bid day activities including BOM and proposal reviews.
• Participate in post-bid turnover meetings for awarded projects.
• Maintain historical cost data for reference and benchmarking.
• Attend industry-related events as needed.
• Travel to meetings and job site walk-throughs as required.

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Coordinate with Preconstruction, Project Management, Fabrication, Virtual Design, Safety, and QA/QC teams.
• Engage with clients to maintain relationships and align expectations.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience with Journeyman status.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical, plumbing, and/or industrial HVAC estimating.
• Familiarity with field practices and OSHA safety standards.
• Understanding of construction contract language and terms.
• Knowledge of the local market is a plus.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Advanced skills in estimating software, database management, Excel, Word, and Bluebeam.
• Experience with FTP sites, virtual plan rooms, and project management/document control software.
• Familiarity with construction and financial software packages.

REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES

• Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and commitment to company values.
• High attention to detail and quality standards.
• Strong leadership and personnel management skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships across all levels.
• Sound judgment and decision-making capabilities.
• Strategic and tactical problem-solving skills.
• Collaborative team player with effective communication skills.
• Ability to inspire and motivate teams.
• Commitment to professional development and adaptability to change.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Must be able to communicate effectively in English and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders including clients, employees, unions, government agencies, vendors, and contractors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The role requires regular sitting, talking, hearing, and use of hands. Occasional walking, climbing, and lifting up to 25 pounds may be necessary. Vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception. Travel to job sites is required for accurate takeoffs and assessments.