The posting
Kelso Building Services is expanding its preconstruction team and is looking for a skilled Mechanical Estimator to support commercial mechanical and building systems projects. This position is responsible for developing accurate pricing strategies, evaluating project opportunities, and helping secure profitable work across a variety of commercial facilities. The successful candidate will combine technical expertise with strong analytical skills to produce competitive estimates while supporting operational and business development goals.
Position Overview: As a Mechanical Estimator, you will analyze project documents, perform quantity takeoffs, evaluate construction costs, and prepare detailed budgets for mechanical construction projects. This role partners closely with project managers, operations leaders, suppliers, subcontractors, and customers to develop comprehensive proposals and ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction into project execution.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Develop complete cost estimates for commercial mechanical projects including new construction, tenant improvements, equipment replacements, and facility upgrades.
- Review contract documents, specifications, drawings, and bid requirements to determine project scope and pricing needs.
- Perform detailed quantity surveys for piping systems, HVAC equipment, sheet metal, controls, insulation, and related mechanical components.
- Prepare labor projections, material budgets, equipment costs, subcontractor pricing, and contingency evaluations.
- Solicit and analyze quotations from suppliers, manufacturers, and specialty subcontractors.
- Create conceptual budgets, schematic estimates, negotiated proposals, and competitive bid submissions.
- Identify design considerations, scope risks, constructability concerns, and potential cost impacts during the estimating process.
- Collaborate with operations and field teams to validate labor assumptions and project execution strategies.
- Prepare proposal documentation, clarifications, inclusions, exclusions, and scope summaries for customers.
- Evaluate alternative systems, value-engineering opportunities, and cost-saving recommendations.
- Participate in site visits, preconstruction meetings, and customer consultations when required.
- Support project handoff activities by providing estimate details and documentation to operations teams.
- Maintain organized estimating records, historical cost information, and vendor pricing databases.
- Monitor market conditions and material trends that may impact future project pricing.
Core Technical Expertise
- Commercial mechanical and HVAC system applications.
- Central plant equipment, packaged systems, and building comfort solutions.
- Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and energy-efficient mechanical technologies.
- Mechanical piping, hydronic systems, and distribution networks.
- Sheet metal fabrication and air distribution systems.
- Building automation, controls, and system integration.
- Heating, cooling, and ventilation infrastructure.
- Retrofit solutions and facility modernization projects.
Required Qualifications
- Experience preparing estimates for commercial mechanical construction, HVAC systems, piping projects, or related building trades.
- Ability to review and interpret blueprints, specifications, schedules, and construction documentation.
- Strong understanding of labor productivity, material pricing, and construction cost analysis.
- Proficiency using estimating platforms, digital takeoff software, Microsoft Excel, and other business applications.
- Excellent analytical and mathematical skills with a high level of accuracy.
- Ability to prioritize multiple opportunities and meet proposal deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work across departments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with a mechanical contractor, specialty contractor, design-build organization, or commercial construction company.
- Knowledge of mechanical codes, industry standards, and construction regulations.
- Background supporting preconstruction planning, budgeting, and project development efforts.
- Experience with conceptual estimating, value engineering, and cost forecasting.
- Education, training, or certifications related to mechanical systems, engineering, construction management, or estimating.
- Familiarity with negotiated projects and alternative project delivery methods.
Measures of Success
- Delivers complete, accurate, and timely estimates that support profitable project execution.
- Identifies project risks and opportunities before construction begins.
- Develops reliable cost models and maintains accurate estimating data.
- Builds strong working relationships with vendors, customers, and internal teams.
- Contributes to business growth by supporting successful project pursuits and proposal efforts.
Why Kelso Building Services?
- Competitive compensation package and comprehensive employee benefits.
- Opportunity to participate in high-profile commercial mechanical construction projects.
- Collaborative environment with experienced industry professionals.
- Professional growth opportunities and long-term career advancement.
- Stable and growing organization committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
