About this opportunity
CyberCoders lists this Senior Estimator - Mechanical Construction opportunity in newport news, Virginia. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Senior Estimator - Mechanical Construction
Position Overview
The Senior Estimator for Mechanical Construction will lead cost estimating for mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and MEP projects across commercial and industrial sectors. This role produces accurate, competitive bids and proposals, manages takeoffs, develops scopes, and supports business development by identifying cost-saving opportunities and construction risks. The ideal candidate combines strong technical knowledge of mechanical systems with advanced estimating software skills and proven bid management experience.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and MEP projects using On-Screen Takeoff and other estimating tools.
Lead development of complete bid packages, including scopes of work, material lists, labor estimates, subcontractor pricing, and contingency allowances.
Analyze drawings, specifications and RFP documents to identify design intent, constructability issues, and scope gaps; recommend value engineering and alternate solutions.
Collaborate with project managers, engineers, procurement and field teams to validate assumptions, update cost databases, and ensure estimates reflect current market conditions.
Solicit, evaluate and incorporate subcontractor and supplier quotes; maintain relationships with subcontractors to ensure competitive and reliable pricing.
Prepare bid narratives, executive summaries, and pricing presentations for internal stakeholders and clients; participate in pre-bid meetings and site visits as needed.
Perform risk assessments, develop bid strategies, and recommend pricing adjustments to protect margins while remaining competitive.
Maintain and update historical cost data, labor productivity factors, and material pricing models to improve estimate accuracy and speed.
Mentor and review work of junior estimators; standardize estimating processes and templates to ensure consistency across projects.
Support post-bid activities including bid reconciliation, scope clarifications, and transition of winning bids to project teams for execution.
Qualifications
Minimum 7+ years of estimating experience in mechanical construction with extensive exposure to plumbing, HVAC, and MEP systems.
Proven track record preparing commercial/industrial bid estimates and winning competitive work.
Demonstrated proficiency with On-Screen Takeoff; experience with additional tools such as Bluebeam, Sage Estimating, Trimble, or similar is a plus.
Strong Excel skills for pricing models, labor calculations and data analysis; comfortable developing and maintaining cost databases.
Excellent understanding of mechanical systems, material specifications, labor productivity rates, and code requirements relevant to plumbing and HVAC work.
Experience coordinating subcontractor and supplier procurement and evaluating vendor proposals.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present estimates and negotiate scope and pricing with owners and design teams.
Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
Willingness to travel to project sites and attend pre-bid meetings as required; valid driver's license.
Benefits
Employee Stock Ownership Retirement Plan
401(k) Savings Plan with Employer Match
Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability & Accident Insurance
Tax-free Spending Accounts (Health and Dependent Care)
Paid Holidays
Legal Resources
PTO - Paid Time Off, Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Assistance
PTO for Community Volunteering
Worksite address
newport news, VA, 23606, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.