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Building Automation Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automation Estimator

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

About Us We are a full-service HVAC, building automation, chiller, and retrofit contractor with a ... Job Summary The Automation Estimator will be responsible for the accurate pricing of controls ...

You'll be tasked with maintaining comprehensive estimating logs and unit costs for all projects, while also establishing and nurturing vendor relationships crucial to project success. Conducting site ...

Building Automation Technician

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$40K/yr

Provide accurate controls of systems start-up, programming, and commissioning for building automation while ensuring all sequences of operation are functioning as intended. * Assist with estimating ...

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Building Automation Estimator information

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How much do building automation estimator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for building automation estimator in the United States is $31.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building automation estimator?

Building Automation Estimators are professionals who assess and calculate the costs associated with installing, maintaining, or upgrading building automation systems, such as HVAC controls, lighting, and security systems. They analyze project blueprints, specifications, and requirements to determine the necessary materials, labor, and time needed for a project. Their work ensures that proposals are accurate and competitive, helping contractors and companies plan budgets and submit bids for building automation work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building automation estimator?

To thrive as a Building Automation Estimator, you need a solid understanding of HVAC systems, electrical engineering concepts, and cost estimation, often backed by a relevant technical degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with estimation software (such as Accubid or Bluebeam), AutoCAD, and construction management tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in accurately assessing project requirements and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure precise project bids, minimize financial risks, and support the successful planning and execution of building automation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by building automation estimators in project bidding and how can they be addressed?

Building Automation Estimators often encounter challenges such as incomplete project specifications, tight deadlines, and the need to coordinate with multiple stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and suppliers. To address these, it's important to develop strong communication skills, maintain up-to-date knowledge on the latest automation technologies, and use specialized estimating software to streamline calculations and document management. Proactively clarifying project requirements and maintaining organized records can also help minimize errors and ensure accurate bids.

What is the difference between Building Automation Estimator vs Mechanical Estimator?

AspectBuilding Automation EstimatorMechanical Estimator
CredentialsRelevant certifications in automation, HVAC, or controlsHVAC, plumbing, or mechanical engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction companies, automation integratorsMechanical contracting firms, construction companies
Industry UsageBuilding automation systems, controls, and integration projectsHVAC, plumbing, and mechanical systems installation
Search & Comparison IntentEstimating automation system costs, controls, and integrationEstimating mechanical system costs, HVAC, plumbing

Building Automation Estimators focus on automation systems, controls, and integration projects, requiring knowledge of controls and automation certifications. Mechanical Estimators handle HVAC and plumbing systems, emphasizing mechanical engineering skills. Both roles involve cost estimation but differ in technical focus and industry applications.

What states have the most Building Automation Estimator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Building Automation Estimator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Building Automation Estimator jobs?

For Building Automation Estimator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Building Automation Estimator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,576 per year, or $31 per hour.

Building Automation Estimator (BAS)

New Castle, DE โ€ข On-site

MODERNCONTROLS LLC.
Constructionย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Generate detailed cost estimates and quantity takeoffs from project plans and specifications.

  • Review and evaluate bid invitations, plans, and specifications to analyze project needs and scope of work.

  • Organize vendor and subcontractor quotations, negotiate pricing, and ensure quotes meet contract requirements.


Job description

Description:

ModernControls is a rapidly growing company seeks an eager and hard-working professional to join our team as a Building Automation System (BAS) Estimator. As a BAS estimator you will be expected to operate independently, set priorities, and resolve competing needs to provide timely information and solve problems. This position will work closely with our sales team, project management team, engineering team, subcontractors, and suppliers. This position will focus on generating detailed cost estimates, creating bid scopes of work for both plan & spec and design build projects. Estimating tasks include material takeoff, equipment selection, development of cost estimate, development of engineering and field hours, and scope of work. You will read and interpret project plans and specifications and develop a complete estimate. This position combines the application of Controls/HVAC, Electrical/Lighting, Security, technical knowledge with the ability to efficiently develop cost estimates.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other functions may be assigned:


o Review and evaluate invitations to bid, plans, and specifications to analyze project needs and understand scope of work, contract drawings and specifications.

o Attend pre-bid meetings and conduct site visits, to verify existing conditions that inform your cost estimate for the project.

o Provide clear and detailed cost estimates and quantity take offs from controls drawings or points lists.

o Create cost estimates consisting of materials, purchased equipment, and labor to assist in bidding or determining the project  price for renovations, retrofits, new installation, upgrades, and change orders.

o Produce cost estimates for a project based on project plans and discussions with clients and engineers.

o Assemble accurate and well-organized cost estimates and provide narratives for in scope items, exclusions, and clarifications for inclusion in proposals.

o Stay up to date on product, supply, and subcontractor prices to ensure accurate estimates.

o Develop and maintain unit pricing and cost estimating database for material, labor and other costs associated with data for products, vendors, and subcontractors.

o Conduct research to determine needs for personnel, materials, and other factors which affect costs.

o Formulate cost break downs to include cost associated with material and all labor categories from estimates as well as for cost breakdown for project progress detailing.

o Meet with potential clients to discuss options for ongoing proposed services.

o Organize vendor and subcontractor quotations, negotiate pricing while ensuring quotes meet contract documents and requirements.

o Must have a thorough understanding and ability to read construction documents, including specifications, schematics, change orders, and submittals.

o Experience interacting with subcontractors and other vendors to solicit proposals.

o Estimated project size would be between $20K and $5M

Requirements:

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES


This job has no supervisory responsibilities.


QUALIFICATIONS


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE


High School or GED

4-Year degree in mechanical engineering or construction management

Or 2-Year technical degree with work experience in Controls/HVAC 2+ Years

Preferred Knowledge/Skills, Education and Experience:

Understanding of layout, design, fabrication, and installation of Controls/HVAC, Electrical, Security systems

Additional field experience with controls installation and interaction is preferred


Experience in Industrial/Commercial HVAC, Building Automation Systems, Integration, Energy Management, Commissioning is preferred.


Strong ability to review and evaluate prints, drawings, schematics, and written sequences of operation to develop digital takeoffs composed of a point list, controller selection, labor, and materials estimate


Advanced knowledge of computerized estimating techniques and cost control, plus ability to interpret computerized cost data and systems essential


Microsoft Products

OSHA 10 Certified

Valid driver’s license and in good standing

Outstanding verbal and written communication skills

Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask and balance several projects at a time

Thrive in a team environment

Builds trusting relationships to get work done