HVAC Project Estimator

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial and industrial HVAC projects.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope, risks, and requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for HVAC equipment, sheet metal, piping, controls, insulation, and associated systems.
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing to create competitive project proposals.
• Lead the estimating process for negotiated, design-build, and plan-and-spec projects.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, operations teams, and field personnel to develop project budgets and bid strategies.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions while maintaining project performance and quality standards.
• Analyze project risks, scope gaps, and constructability concerns during preconstruction.
• Participate in client meetings, project walkthroughs, and pre-bid conferences as needed.
• Prepare bid summaries, proposal documents, and estimate reviews for management approval.
• Support project turnover meetings and provide estimating documentation to operations teams upon project award.
• Maintain organized estimating records, historical cost databases, and project documentation.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of HVAC estimating experience in commercial and industrial construction.
• Experience estimating both plan-and-spec and design-build HVAC projects.
• Prior experience performing detailed mechanical takeoffs and project budgeting.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, including: Sheet Metal Systems, Piping Systems, Boilers, Chillers, Cooling Towers, VRF Systems, Rooftop Units (RTUs).
• Experience developing conceptual budgets, bid proposals, and value engineering recommendations.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of commercial and industrial HVAC construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with HVAC estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Able to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and project profitability.