HVAC Project Estimator

Overview

Kelso Building Services is seeking an experienced HVAC Project Estimator to join our growing team. This position is responsible for managing the estimating process from initial plan review through project handoff, ensuring accurate budgets, competitive bids, and successful project execution. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in commercial and industrial HVAC, design-build estimating, and project cost analysis.

• Prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for commercial and industrial HVAC projects.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope, risks, and requirements.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for HVAC equipment, sheet metal, piping, controls, insulation, and associated systems.
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing to create competitive project proposals.
• Lead the estimating process for negotiated, design-build, and plan-and-spec projects.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, operations teams, and field personnel to develop project budgets and bid strategies.
• Solicit, evaluate, and compare vendor and subcontractor quotations.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions while maintaining project performance and quality standards.
• Analyze project risks, scope gaps, and constructability concerns during preconstruction.
• Participate in client meetings, project walkthroughs, and pre-bid conferences as needed.
• Prepare bid summaries, proposal documents, and estimate reviews for management approval.
• Support project turnover meetings and provide estimating documentation to operations teams upon project award.
• Maintain organized estimating records, historical cost databases, and project documentation.

• Minimum of 5 years of HVAC estimating experience in commercial and industrial construction.
• Experience estimating both plan-and-spec and design-build HVAC projects.
• Proven experience performing detailed mechanical takeoffs and project budgeting.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems, including:
  • Sheet Metal Systems
  • Piping Systems
  • Boilers
  • Chillers
  • Cooling Towers
  • VRF Systems
  • Rooftop Units (RTUs)
• Experience developing conceptual budgets, bid proposals, and value engineering recommendations.

• Strong knowledge of commercial and industrial HVAC construction practices.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with HVAC estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and project profitability.

• Knowledge of local mechanical codes and industry standards.
• Experience working closely with project management and operations teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Familiarity with budgeting, forecasting, and project cost control principles.