Estimating Manager

Summary

The Estimating Manager is responsible for leading the estimating team and overseeing the preparation and delivery of accurate and competitive project estimates for mechanical construction projects. This role supervises estimating staff, coordinates with subcontractors, and ensures the completeness and accuracy of all proposals. The Estimating Manager also supports business development efforts and collaborates closely with project teams to validate scopes and price changes effectively.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience estimating complex mechanical systems and deep project scope knowledge in at least one of the following trades: process piping, HVAC, sheet metal, and/or plumbing .

Duties & Responsibilities

• Estimating Leadership & Team Management

Lead and supervise the estimating team, including assigning workloads, setting priorities, and managing performance to ensure high-quality deliverables

Train, mentor, and develop estimating staff

Lead weekly staff meetings to review production, identify scope deviations, and forecast upcoming work

• Preconstruction & Business Development Support

Maintain regular contact with preconstruction departments at targeted general contractors to identify new project opportunities

Evaluate potential projects to ensure they align with company strategy, competitive advantages, and margin goals

Assist in selling project proposals through presentations, scope development, negotiations, and closing activities

• Project Estimating

Review project plans, P&IDs, specifications, and contracts to identify scope requirements and potential impacts to pricing

Utilize computer-based takeoff and estimating systems to produce consistent and accurate estimates

Prepare detailed project estimates for mechanical construction systems

Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to obtain accurate pricing and scope coverage

• Project Coordination

Participate in project kickoff meetings to present scope, work plans, budgets, unusual requirements, and project limitations

Assist Project Managers with budget preparation and priced change order work

Support preparation of project forecasts, schedules, and claims when required

• Performance Monitoring

Monitor project progress to compare actual production rates against bid assumptions

Assist with labor productivity tracking and production analysis

Support development of recovery plans when project performance does not meet budget expectations

Qualifications & Requirements

• Required

5–10+ years of experience leading estimating teams and managing personnel

10+ years of experience performing cradle-to-grave estimating for mechanical construction projects

Strong experience estimating mechanical systems such as process piping, HVAC, sheet metal, or plumbing

Experience supporting business development initiatives and developing relationships with new and existing clients

Experience using estimating software such as Autobid, Trimble, QuickPen, FastPIPE, or similar systems

Strong computer proficiency including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)

• Preferred

Field or craft experience within mechanical construction

Experience estimating large-scale high-purity or process piping projects , particularly within semiconductor or biopharmaceutical environments

Strong understanding of piping systems and equipment installation

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk

Ability to lift up to 15 pounds when required

Visual acuity to review and interpret detailed construction drawings both digitally and on paper

Ability to walk uneven terrain on construction sites and climb stairs to access temporary project offices

Benefits

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) contribution of at least 15% annually

Discretionary cash bonus program

3% 401(k) company match

Company-paid medical coverage for employees (up to two-thirds covered for family plans)

Company-provided life insurance

Optional dental and vision coverage

Employment Type: Full time

Location: Livermore, CA