Estimating Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Estimating Manager is responsible for leading the estimating team and overseeing the preparation and delivery of accurate and competitive project estimates for mechanical construction projects. This role supervises estimating staff, coordinates with subcontractors, and ensures the completeness and accuracy of all proposals. The Estimating Manager also supports business development efforts and collaborates closely with project teams to validate scopes and price changes effectively.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience estimating complex mechanical systems and deep project scope knowledge in at least one of the following trades: process piping, HVAC, sheet metal, and/or plumbing.

Duties & Responsibilities

Estimating Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and supervise the estimating team, including assigning workloads, setting priorities, and managing performance to ensure high-quality deliverables
• Train, mentor, and develop estimating staff
• Lead weekly staff meetings to review production, identify scope deviations, and forecast upcoming work

Preconstruction & Business Development Support

• Maintain regular contact with preconstruction departments at targeted general contractors to identify new project opportunities
• Evaluate potential projects to ensure they align with company strategy, competitive advantages, and margin goals
• Assist in selling project proposals through presentations, scope development, negotiations, and closing activities

Project Estimating

• Review project plans, P&IDs, specifications, and contracts to identify scope requirements and potential impacts to pricing
• Utilize computer-based takeoff and estimating systems to produce consistent and accurate estimates
• Prepare detailed project estimates for mechanical construction systems
• Coordinate with subcontractors and vendors to obtain accurate pricing and scope coverage

Project Coordination

• Participate in project kickoff meetings to present scope, work plans, budgets, unusual requirements, and project limitations
• Assist Project Managers with budget preparation and priced change order work
• Support preparation of project forecasts, schedules, and claims when required

Performance Monitoring

• Monitor project progress to compare actual production rates against bid assumptions
• Assist with labor productivity tracking and production analysis
• Support development of recovery plans when project performance does not meet budget expectations

Qualifications & Requirements

Required

• 510+ years of experience leading estimating teams and managing personnel
• 10+ years of experience performing cradle-to-grave estimating for mechanical construction projects
• Strong experience estimating mechanical systems such as process piping, HVAC, sheet metal, or plumbing
• Experience supporting business development initiatives and developing relationships with new and existing clients
• Experience using estimating software such as Autobid, Trimble, QuickPen, FastPIPE, or similar systems
• Strong computer proficiency including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)

Preferred

• Field or craft experience within mechanical construction
• Experience estimating large-scale high-purity or process piping projects, particularly within semiconductor or biopharmaceutical environments
• Strong understanding of piping systems and equipment installation
• Bachelors degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds when required
• Visual acuity to review and interpret detailed construction drawings both digitally and on paper
• Ability to walk uneven terrain on construction sites and climb stairs to access temporary project offices

Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) contribution of at least 15% annually
• Discretionary cash bonus program
• 3% 401(k) company match
• Company-paid medical coverage for employees (up to two-thirds covered for family plans)
• Company-provided life insurance
• Optional dental and vision coverage