About the Company
A leading mechanical HVAC contractor is seeking a Chief Estimator to lead HVAC and piping estimating operations in Bellingham, WA. This senior-level role oversees mechanical estimating strategy, preconstruction leadership, and team development for complex commercial, industrial, and institutional construction projects.
About the Role
This position is ideal for a seasoned mechanical estimator, senior estimator, or estimating manager ready to step into a Chief Estimator role with regional influence.
Responsibilities
Mechanical Estimating Leadership
- Lead HVAC and piping estimating for commercial and industrial mechanical construction projects
- Develop standardized estimating procedures, pricing models, and bid strategies
- Analyze historical cost data and market conditions to improve estimate accuracy
- Oversee estimating databases, bid management systems, and cost history tools
- Lead pre-bid meetings, go/no-go decisions, and pricing strategy sessions
Preconstruction & Bid Management
- Prepare and/or oversee detailed mechanical estimates using Trimble estimating software
- Coordinate with subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers for HVAC and piping pricing
- Review final estimate packages for completeness, accuracy, and risk exposure
- Participate in scope reviews, page turns, and project turnover meetings
- Support proposal development, scope letters, and value engineering efforts
Estimating Team Management
- Manage, mentor, and develop a mechanical estimating team
- Support recruiting, onboarding, and training of HVAC estimators
- Establish performance metrics and accountability within the estimating department
- Promote a strong safety-first culture during preconstruction planning
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with project management, operations, and executive leadership
- Support client presentations, interviews, and contract negotiations
- Lead estimating-to-operations handoff and pre-planning efforts
- Assist with change order pricing and contract reviews as needed
- Build long-term relationships with clients, engineers, and trade partners
Qualifications
- 10+ years of mechanical HVAC and piping estimating experience
- 10+ years of experience with construction contracts, preconstruction, and estimating strategy
- Extensive experience with Trimble estimating and takeoff software
- 5+ years of experience leading or mentoring mechanical estimating teams
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred
- Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills
Required Skills
- Mechanical HVAC and piping estimating experience
- Construction contracts and preconstruction strategy
- Trimble estimating and takeoff software proficiency
- Leadership and mentoring capabilities
Preferred Skills
- Experience in large-scale HVAC and piping projects
- Strong operational support experience
Pay range and compensation package
Base salary: $110,000 – $165,000 + bonus
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
401(k) with company match
Paid time off, holidays, and parental leave
Short-term incentive plan
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices.
