Senior Cost Estimator

Location:

Manchester, TN

Duration:
Less than 12 months

Work Type: 100% onsite

Compensation:

Clearance:

Ability to obtain and maintain required clearance (not required to start)

We are seeking a Senior Cost Estimator with strong MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) construction estimating experience to support complex industrial and infrastructure projects within a highly regulated environment. This role will focus heavily on MEP systems estimating, cost analysis, subcontractor evaluation, and project execution support across large-scale construction initiatives.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience developing conceptual and detailed estimates for HVAC, mechanical piping, plumbing, electrical distribution, power systems, utilities, fire protection, and related infrastructure scopes. Experience supporting federal, industrial, mission-critical, manufacturing, energy, or large commercial construction projects is highly preferred.

• Develop conceptual, schematic, design-development, and detailed construction cost estimates with strong emphasis on MEP systems
• Prepare detailed quantity takeoffs for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, piping, utilities, and fire protection scopes
• Analyze engineering drawings, specifications, BIM models, and construction documents to validate MEP project costs
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor proposals for MEP trades including HVAC, electrical, controls, plumbing, and specialty systems
• Perform cost and price analysis for labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, escalation, and productivity factors
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and contingency development for complex MEP construction activities
• Lead estimate reviews and present findings to project leadership, engineering teams, and stakeholders
• Collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and field execution teams
• Support change order evaluation, estimate reconciliation, and cost validation activities
• Maintain Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation, assumptions, qualifications, and supporting estimate data
• Build and maintain estimating models, templates, historical cost databases, and benchmarking tools
• Identify project risks, constructability concerns, and schedule impacts related to MEP installation and execution
• Support field coordination and execution alignment including labor planning, material management, and installation sequencing
• Ensure all estimates align with project scope, engineering requirements, and construction standards
• Follow all site safety protocols and PPE requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 12+ years of progressive construction estimating experience with strong MEP estimating focus
• Strong experience estimating mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, piping, utility, and/or industrial systems
• Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings and specifications
• Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearance

• Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, federal, mission-critical, energy, laboratory, pharmaceutical, or aviation construction projects
• Strong understanding of MEP estimating methodologies, labor productivity, cost structures, and installation sequencing
• Experience supporting large-scale infrastructure or regulated facility construction
• Knowledge of cost indices, escalation modeling, and risk assessment methodologies
• Familiarity with project controls and construction scheduling principles
• Experience reviewing subcontractor bids and negotiating scope alignment
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and presentation skills
• Advanced proficiency with Excel and construction estimating software
• Experience with Bluebeam, Plan Swift, Sage/Timberline, Procore, Primavera, or similar estimating/project controls tools
• Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams in complex project environments