Estimator​/Project Manager

Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety

At Kelso Industries, 3,500+ employees across 30 companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.

Recruiter Notice: We respectfully ask external recruiters and staffing agencies not to submit candidates. We only accept direct applications.

The Estimator / Project Manager is responsible for the successful execution of Plumbing and HVAC projects from pre‑construction through final closeout. This position serves as the primary point of responsibility for project planning, estimating, budgeting, scheduling, coordination, and communication with internal teams, field supervision, clients, and general contractors.

The Estimator / Project Manager works closely with the Outside Superintendent and Job Site Foreman to ensure projects are executed safely, efficiently, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with contract documents and company standards.

• Pre-Construction & Estimating Responsibilities
• Project Estimating & Bid Preparation
  • Prepare detailed Plumbing and HVAC estimates, including labor, material, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions.
  • Review drawings, specifications, addenda, and scope narratives to ensure complete and accurate bids.
  • Identify potential risks, constructability concerns, and value‑engineering opportunities.
  • Develop and clearly define scope clarifications, exclusions, allowances, and alternates.
• Bid Review & Contract Award Support
  • Participate in bid review meetings and assist with negotiations.
  • Support contract finalization by confirming pricing, scope alignment, and schedule impacts.
  • Assist with buy‑out strategy and subcontractor/vendor selection.
• Project Turnover & Planning
  • Project Turnover Meeting
  • Lead or participate in a formal Project Turnover Meeting upon award.
  • Ensure attendance by the Estimator, Project Manager, Outside Superintendent, and Job Site Foreman.
  • Communicate all critical project information clearly to the field team.
  • Turnover Meeting Discussion Items
    • Contract scope of work (Plumbing, HVAC, and any General Construction).
    • Accepted alternates and allowances, including tracking procedures.
    • Project schedule, milestones, and manpower projections.
    • Job site logistics, including trailers, laydown areas, parking, work hours, and site restrictions.
    • Review all safety requirements, site‑specific safety plans, and documentation responsibilities.
    • Identify long‑lead materials, equipment, and procurement timelines.
    • Review excavation, underground, crane lifts, and heavy equipment requirements.
    • Confirm permits, inspections, and authority‑having‑jurisdiction requirements.
    • Ensure Job Site Foreman receives all required construction documents.

• Contract Administration
  • Manage project contracts in compliance with contractual obligations and company policies.
  • Take off material and put the list together for quotes.
  • Review and process subcontracts, purchase orders, and change orders.
  • Ensure adherence to contract scope, specifications, and drawings.
• Schedule & Budget Control
  • Develop and manage project budgets, cost tracking, and forecasting.
  • Monitor labor productivity and material costs.
  • Review and maintain project schedules; coordinate with GC/CM on updates and impacts.
  • Identify potential schedule or cost issues early and implement corrective actions.
• Change Management
  • Identify scope changes and pricing impacts.
  • Prepare, submit, and negotiate change orders and field directives.
  • Track and document all changes for billing and closeout.
• Coordination & Communication
  • Internal Coordination
    • Coordinate with Outside Superintendent and Job Site Foreman to support field execution.
    • Provide clear direction regarding scope, sequencing, and priorities.
    • Assist with resolving field issues, RFIs, and constructability challenges.
  • External Coordination
    • Serve as primary contact with the General Contractor, Construction Manager, owners, engineers, and…