Senior MEP Estimator

The Role

Suffolk is seeking people who are bold. Curious. Innovative. Caring. Looking for the career opportunity of a lifetime. We’ll challenge and inspire you to be your very best. We’ll embrace what makes you unique and lift you up as you take chances. Here, you’ll find a place where you can act with purpose and integrity, bringing intelligence and grit to every aspect of your job.

Join us for the chance to achieve your ambitions and build your legacy.

The Senior Estimator is responsible for all aspects of estimating the most complex and large-scale jobs, including pre-construction, hard bids, negotiated bids, budgets, general conditions, systems studies and comparisons, value engineering, subcontractor relations and staying abreast of industry developments applicable to estimating. This is an opportunity to work on a confidential, high-profile project in LA.

• Lead the preparation of conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document level estimates for MEP and fire protection systems.

• Perform detailed quantity take-offs and cost analysis for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection scopes using industry-standard estimating software.

• Review architectural and engineering drawings for completeness, coordination, and constructability, and identify scope gaps or conflicts early in the design process.

• Develop and manage trade partner bid lists, solicit and analyze subcontractor proposals, and lead scope reconciliation and buyout for MEP/FP trades.

• Support value engineering and cost reduction efforts by proposing alternative systems, materials, or methods without compromising project quality or code compliance.

• Collaborate with the preconstruction, operations, and design teams to develop project budgets, cost models, and cash flow projections.

• Present estimates, budgets, and cost narratives to clients, design teams, and internal leadership.

• Track and incorporate code, energy, and jurisdictional requirements affecting MEP/FP systems, including Title 24 and local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements.

• Mentor junior estimators and preconstruction staff, and contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating tools, templates, and processes.

• Participate in project handoff meetings to ensure a smooth transition of scope, budget, and subcontractor commitments from preconstruction to operations.

• Conduct or support site visits and existing conditions assessments as needed, following all applicable jobsite safety requirements.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum of eight years of experience in MEP/FP estimating, preconstruction, or related trade contracting, with progressive responsibility.

• Demonstrated experience estimating mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems for commercial construction projects.

• Working knowledge of California Building Code, Title 24 energy requirements, and local jurisdictional processes within Los Angeles and Orange County.

• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software (such as On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or comparable platforms) and standard cost estimating databases.

• Strong understanding of construction documents, specifications, and MEP/FP system coordination.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present cost information clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

• Ability to travel locally within the Los Angeles and Orange County region for client meetings, site visits, and jobsite walks as required.

• Valid driver's license.

• Candidate must possess Suffolk’s Core Values:
  Passion, Integrity, Hard Work,…