The Ins and Outs of Being a Commercial Mechanical Estimator

Posted on 15 December 2014

Looking to branch into Mechanical Estimating, or are you a Mechanical Estimator simply searching to further your career? Check out these tips and tricks to ensure landing a job when you’re open to considering new positions again:

  1. Be local. As fun as it sounds to move to Hawaii, it’s pretty difficult to not only find positions in that area, but it’s also a considerable change. When looking for new jobs, start locally and broaden your search if you think you’re up to relocating.

  2. Stable work history. When over-viewing resumes, the number one attribute employers are seeking is excellent tenure. Frequently changing jobs will make it harder to land a new position in the future. Be sure to move on from a situation when necessary.

Preferred Qualifications:

  1. Prior hands-on experience in commercial HVAC/Plumbing.

  2. Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.

  3. Knowledge of/working skills with Bluebeam, MS Excel, Trimble, Accubid, etc.

  4. Experience estimating on large, commercial projects such as Hospitals (including med-gas systems), stadiums, high-rises, labs, universities, and more.

  5. Familiar with ASHRAE, ASPE, and other local building codes.

  6. Certifications: PE, LEED, AP, among others.

Estimators are equipped with the skills to estimate the cost of a project. From managing the initial cost projects to assessing the plan, they are the key to driving the initial project to success.

Below are a few of the day to day responsibilities of Estimators in the commercial, mechanical industry:

  • Analyze and create detailed estimates of mechanical projects.

  • Complete job-site visits.

  • Qualitatively check materials and purchase from the suppliers.

  • Accurately calculate labor requirements for upcoming projects.

  • Prepare before & after bid time reports.

If you’ve ticked each of these boxes, you’re on the road to being a great Estimator within the commercial, mechanical (HVAC and Plumbing) industry!

**If you would like an Estimator position, we currently are searching for Estimators in CA, AZ, FL, CT, and MA. On the flip side, if you are hiring for an Estimator, let us know as we’d love to be a resource for your company!

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