Experienced Mechanical Estimator

At Kelso Building Services, we take pride in delivering high-quality mechanical solutions while creating opportunities for our team members to grow and succeed. We foster a culture built on collaboration, accountability, innovation, and customer service, providing employees with the resources and support needed to build rewarding careers.

Position Overview Kelso Building Services is seeking an Experienced Mechanical Estimator to support our commercial and industrial construction operations. This role is responsible for evaluating project opportunities, preparing accurate cost projections, and developing competitive proposals for a variety of mechanical construction projects. The ideal candidate brings strong estimating experience, a thorough understanding of mechanical systems, and the ability to analyze project requirements while balancing cost, risk, and schedule considerations.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial and industrial mechanical construction projects.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, bid packages, and project documents to determine scope requirements.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for mechanical systems including HVAC equipment, ductwork, piping, controls, insulation, and related components.
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing to support accurate project budgets.
• Create estimates for negotiated, hard bid, design-build, and design-assist projects.
• Analyze project risks, scope gaps, scheduling concerns, and constructability issues during the preconstruction phase.
• Work closely with project managers, operations personnel, engineers, and field teams to develop estimating strategies.
• Solicit, review, and compare supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify value-engineering opportunities and alternative solutions that improve project efficiency and cost performance.
• Participate in site visits, pre-bid meetings, and project review discussions as required.
• Prepare estimate summaries, bid proposals, and supporting documentation for management review.
• Assist with project handoff activities following contract award.
• Maintain estimating databases, historical cost information, and bid records.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience estimating mechanical construction projects.
• Experience pricing commercial and industrial HVAC and mechanical systems.
• Background preparing estimates for both design-build and plan-and-specification projects.
• Proven ability to perform detailed takeoffs and develop comprehensive project budgets.
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems including:
• Air Distribution and Sheet Metal Systems
• Hydronic and Process Piping Systems
• Boiler Systems
• Chiller Plants
• Cooling Towers
• Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
• Packaged and Rooftop HVAC Equipment
• Building Automation and Controls Systems
• Experience preparing conceptual estimates and budgetary pricing during early project planning stages.

• Strong understanding of commercial and industrial mechanical construction practices.
• Ability to interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, schedules, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with estimating software, digital takeoff tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical and mathematical skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously.
• Effective verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to collaborate across departments and interact professionally with clients, vendors, and subcontractors.
• High attention to detail with a focus on estimate accuracy and project profitability.

• Experience working for a mechanical contractor or design-build construction firm.
• Knowledge of applicable building codes, mechanical regulations, and industry standards.
• Experience supporting preconstruction planning and project development efforts.
• Understanding of job costing, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Bachelor's degree, associate degree, or technical training in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, HVAC Technology, or a related field.