Position Summary:
The Senior Estimator leads the preparation of accurate, competitive, and
complete estimates for HVAC, plumbing, refrigeration, and sheet-metal projects.
This role manages the bid process from initial review through proposal
submission, develops scopes and pricing strategies, coordinates subcontractor
and supplier input, identifies project risk, and supports successful project
turnover. The ideal candidate combines strong technical judgment, disciplined
organization, local market knowledge, and collaborative leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead estimates for hard-bid, negotiated, design-build, and conceptual
projects from opportunity review through final proposal.
* Review published plans and specifications, conduct site visits.
* Review plans, specifications, addenda, schedules, contracts, and site
conditions to define scope, identify gaps, and assess cost and execution
risk.
* Perform and validate quantity takeoffs; develop labor, material, equipment,
subcontractor, escalation, contingency, and indirect-cost pricing.
* Prepare bid analyses, clarifications, exclusions, alternates,
value-engineering options, scopes of work, cost reports, and client-ready
proposals.
* Solicit, level, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations; negotiate
pricing and confirm scope coverage before bid submission.
* Develop bid schedules and coordinate estimating activities to meet internal
reviews and submission deadlines.
* Partner with operations, project management, field leadership, engineering,
and executive leadership to evaluate constructability, labor strategy,
logistics, and project approach.
* Participate in pre-bid meetings and site visits and document relevant
conditions, constraints, and assumptions.
* Maintain organized estimate files, historical cost data, vendor
relationships, and current knowledge of local labor productivity and
construction practices.
* Support project handoff after award by communicating scope, assumptions,
risks, procurement considerations, and budget details to the project team.
* Mentor estimators as assigned and contribute to consistent estimating
standards, tools, and lessons learned.
* Perform other job-related duties consistent with the position’s purpose and
business needs.
Qualifications (minimum):
* Substantial estimating experience in commercial or industrial HVAC, plumbing,
refrigeration, and/or sheet-metal construction; an equivalent combination of
education and relevant experience will be considered.
* Demonstrated ability to manage complete bids, including takeoffs, pricing,
scope development, bid leveling, risk review, and proposal preparation.
* Strong understanding of mechanical drawings, specifications, construction
documents, means and methods, and trade coordination.
* Proficiency with estimating, spreadsheet, word-processing,
document-management, and electronic plan-review tools.
* Ability to organize multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, work
accurately under deadlines, and communicate issues early.
* Clear written, verbal, negotiation, and interpersonal communication skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with customers, designers,
suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams.
* Authorization to work in the United States in accordance with applicable law.
* Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record when driving is an
essential function of the role.
Skills
* Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage
multiple purchase orders, invoices, and deadlines.
* Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel, with the ability to
accurately process, track, and reconcile financial transactions.
* Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills to identify
discrepancies, ensure compliance, and maintain accurate records.
* Strong mathematical and analytical abilities.
* Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate
with vendors, suppliers, and internal departments.
* Problem-solving ability and a proactive approach to resolving issues and
improving processes.
* Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive financial
information with professionalism and integrity.
Education & Experience
* Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (preferably Mechanical); additional
technical, construction-management, or trade education is valued.
* Experience estimating projects in Hawaiʻi and established knowledge of local
labor conditions, vendors, subcontractors, and construction practices.
* Experience with negotiated and design-build delivery methods, conceptual
budgeting, value engineering, and client presentations.
* Experience coaching or reviewing the work of other estimators.
* Ten or more years of progressively responsible mechanical estimating
experience.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
* Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing computer-based
work.
* Ability to use standard office equipment, including computers, printers, and
telephones.
* Ability to occasionally lift and carry office materials weighing up to 20
pounds.