Junior Mechanical Estimator
Employment Type: Full-Time
Work Environment: Office-Based
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Compensation: $18.00–$20.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
Probationary Period: 3 Months
Start Date: ASAP
Position Overview
We are seeking a Junior Mechanical Estimator to join our growing estimating team. This is an office-based role focused primarily on estimating institutional and ICI (Industrial, Commercial, Institutional) mechanical construction projects, typically ranging from $500,000 to $5,000,000+ in tender value.
The successful candidate will assist with preparing competitive mechanical tenders involving plumbing, hydronic/heating systems, and mechanical equipment.
We welcome candidates across a broad experience spectrum—from recent graduates with no direct estimating background to individuals with up to five years of relevant industry experience. For entry-level candidates, prior estimating experience is not required. We place high value on technical aptitude, numerical proficiency, attention to detail, initiative, and trainability, and will provide comprehensive, hands-on training in our estimating procedures, software, and bidding strategies.
Key Responsibilities
The Junior Mechanical Estimator will perform—or be trained to perform—the following duties:
- Tender Analysis: Read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, schedules, tender documents, and addenda.
- Takeoffs: Perform detailed material and labor quantity takeoffs for plumbing, hydronic/heating, and mechanical systems.
- Scope & Procurement: Identify required materials, equipment, and subcontracted work. Prepare, issue, and follow up on Requests for Quotation (RFQs) to suppliers and subcontractors.
- Quote Review: Evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotes to ensure scope accuracy, pricing competitiveness, exclusions, and tender compliance.
- Costing & Documentation: Develop pricing for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracts. Prepare and maintain organized tender spreadsheets and estimating documentation.
- Addenda & Revisions:
Review tender addenda and incorporate all relevant updates into active estimates.
- Operational Coordination: Coordinate tender requirements and site walkthroughs with the Operations Manager.
- Bid Submission & Support: Assist the Senior Estimator in compiling complete bid submissions and provide post-award estimating support to Project Managers.
- Change Orders: Complete material and labor takeoffs and pricing for change orders on active projects.
- Ownership: Take full accountability for assigned estimating tasks, ensuring accuracy and adherence to strict tender deadlines.
Education & Experience
We welcome applicants from entry-level backgrounds as well as those with prior construction experience.
Preferred Educational Backgrounds:
- Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or Building Systems
- Mathematics, Business, or related quantitative programs
- Skilled trades or mechanical construction education combined with post-secondary studies
Experience Assets:
- Entry-level candidates / New graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Previous experience with a mechanical contractor is heavily preferred, but not mandatory for a highly trainable candidate.
- Experience reading plumbing, HVAC, hydronic, or other mechanical construction drawings is a solid asset.
- Field experience in mechanical construction is considered highly valuable.
Technical & Software Skills
Technical Knowledge (Asset for experienced candidates; entry-level will be trained):
- Familiarity with plumbing, hydronic, heating, HVAC, and mechanical piping systems.
- Basic understanding of valves, fittings, piping specialties, mechanical equipment,
and ductwork.
- General knowledge of construction terminology, mechanical schedules, specifications, and bidding procedures.
Software Proficiency:
- Required: Comfortable using Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Microsoft 365.
- Provided Training: On-the-job training will be provided for Trimble estimating software and proprietary company estimating systems.
- Strong general computer literacy and the ability to learn new software quickly are essential.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Aptitude & Detail: Strong numerical skills, analytical thinking, and high attention to detail.
- Trainability: Eagerness to learn new construction concepts, takeoff methods, and software rapidly.
- Work Ethic & Ownership: Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable seeking out information rather than waiting for direction.
- Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills with the confidence to interact directly with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Deadline-Driven: Able to deliver precise, accurate work under tight tender submission schedules.
- Industry Focus: A genuine, long-term interest in building a career within the mechanical construction industry.
Work Environment & First-Year Expectations
- Workplace: This is a 100% office-based position. Regular site work is not required; any necessary tender walkthroughs are coordinated alongside the Operations Manager.
- First-Year Goals (6–12 Months): Through hands-on mentorship, the candidate will develop the ability to independently perform full material/labor takeoffs from mechanical drawings, scope out sub-trades/suppliers, issue RFQs, organize vendor pricing, and assemble a comprehensive mechanical estimate.
Career Path & Growth
This position offers a clear long-term growth trajectory. As you master estimating fundamentals, commercial processes, and mechanical systems, your career path can progress as follows:
Junior Mechanical Estimator $rightarrow$ Estimator / Project Coordinator $rightarrow$ Senior Estimator / Project Manager
📌 Junior Mechanical Estimator (Concord)
🏢 I8IS
📍 Concord