Mechanical Cost Manager

About the role

The Mechanical Cost Estimator is responsible for developing and delivering cost estimates for mechanical systems, including HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and site utilities. This role independently performs quantity take-offs, develops pricing, and applies market intelligence, historical benchmarking data, and company standards to produce accurate and defensible cost deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical cost estimates across all design phases: Conceptual / Parametric, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs and system-level quantification for: HVAC systems (airside, hydronic, equipment-based systems), Plumbing systems (domestic water, sanitary, storm), Fire protection systems, Site and underground utilities
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and design narratives to define complete mechanical scope and identify gaps or coordination issues
• Develop unit pricing utilizing: Historical cost data, Industry databases (e.g., RS Means, MCASES MII), Subcontractor/vendor input, Market intelligence and regional labor conditions
• Cook with internal disciplines (architectural, structural, civil, electrical) to ensure alignment and completeness of estimate inputs
• Prepare and maintain detailed estimate backup, assumptions, clarifications, and Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation
• Participate in estimate reviews, reconciliation meetings, and design coordination discussions with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Identify cost drivers, escalation impacts, procurement risks, and constructability considerations affecting mechanical systems
• Support value engineering and cost optimization efforts through system comparisons, alternate analysis, and lifecycle considerations
• Assist in evaluating subcontractor proposals, bid comparisons, and change order pricing related to mechanical scope
• Maintain organized project documentation and ensure traceability of quantities, pricing, and assumptions
• Support QA/QC processes by validating quantities, pricing logic, and estimate completeness prior to submission

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Approximately 5–8 years of experience in mechanical estimating or related construction cost roles
• Experience supporting a variety of project types and delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, CMAR, Design-Build)
• Demonstrated ability to develop estimates with increasing independence and technical responsibility
• Scheduling experience highly preferred with knowledge of Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project
• Solid understanding of mechanical systems including: HVAC systems (VAV, chilled water, hot water, DX systems, air distribution), Plumbing systems (domestic, sanitary, stormwater), Fire protection systems
• Ability to read and interpret: Mechanical drawings and specifications, Architectural, structural, and civil documents for coordination
• Proficiency in performing detailed quantity take-offs and applying appropriate labor and productivity factors
• Working knowledge of: Estimating platforms (e.g., Sage Timberline, MCASES MII, OST, similar tools), Microsoft Excel (intermediate to advanced), Cost databases and benchmarking systems
• Understanding of labor impacts, including productivity, escalation, and regional cost factors