Mechanical & Process Systems Estimator

Therma, a Legence Company
. For over 50 years, Therma has continued to redefine the mechanical construction landscapes in California. Renowned for outstanding client service and attention to detail, we balance innovative, facility‑specific solutions with a pragmatic, cost‑conscious approach. Today, the firm employs more than 1,100 people in 3 regional offices, and its clients represent a diverse range of market sectors, including Biopharmaceutical, Education, Healthcare, Food & Beverage, Commercial, Industrial and Data Center facilities.

Our culture is open, innovative, collaborative, and fun – all reflected in recognition of Therma as a #1 Best Place to Work on multiple occasions. We create an environment that empowers & challenges employees, giving them the greatest opportunity to succeed.

Therma is a leader in delivering innovative mechanical, plumbing, and process piping solutions across some of the most complex and technically demanding projects in the industry. We’re looking for an experienced Estimator who wants to do more than just build numbers—you’ll help define project strategy, drive competitive positioning, and influence which work we pursue and win. In this role, your expertise will directly impact project success, business growth, and the strength of our client partnerships.

Note:

Active union members may apply and will be considered equally to non‑union applicants. Foremen, general foremen, and superintendents are encouraged to apply for this estimating position. Field experience will be considered if a professional estimating position has never been held.

• Full‑time, in‑office – San José, CA.
• Compensation: $140k – $175k.

• Provide timely and accurate cost estimates of labor and materials for new construction or maintenance projects.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to prepare time, cost, and labor estimates.
• Collaborate with peer estimators, project managers, engineers, detailers, and vendors.
• Manage project management team expectations through written and verbal communication.
• Use estimating software and tools to perform project takeoffs; estimate work manually using takeoffs, labor, and hour calculations when needed.
• Ensure accuracy of all components of estimating spreadsheets, including correct labor hours, rates, internal cost allocations, assumptions, material, transportation, and other services.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and company policies.
• Attend job walks, bid reviews, and meetings as required.

• Experience in construction, mechanical & process systems industry.
• Experience estimating medium to large projects.
• Knowledge of MCAA.
• Experience using estimating software such as Trimble Auto Bid, Highlands Construction Software, Quote Soft, or equivalent.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project).
• Review customer requests for quotes for both deliverable and quality requirements.
• Communicate with customers and project teams to define requirements and expectations accurately.
• Consolidate all outside costs and internal costs associated with fabrication and installation.
• Create detailed estimate packages with supporting documentation for final review.
• Write clarification letters for estimates performed.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Collaborate effectively in a team environment.

• Knowledge of construction industry.
• 5‑10 years field experience in Mechanical, Plumbing, or Process Piping industry.
• Basic knowledge of piping codes.
• College degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (preferred).
• Experience with Bluebeam and Adobe PDF applications.
• Basic knowledge of Autodesk AutoCAD & Revit navigation of drawings/models (preferred).

• Organized:
  Sense of urgency with the ability to set priorities and build action plans for timely execution.
• Problem‑solving:
  Identify patterns beyond noise, engage by asking questions, and drive toward logical conclusions and decision points.
• Agile:
  Shift between self‑reliance and cross‑group collaboration while supporting others’ success.
• Customer and Personal Service:
  Knowledge of…