Hvac Retrofit Estimator

Our Client Our client is a long-standing mechanical contracting leader with a strong reputation for honesty, integrity, and innovation. For more than half a century, they have delivered complex HVAC, piping, and plumbing projects across healthcare, institutional, commercial, and industrial sectors. With a new president and a high-performing leadership team, the company is entering an exciting growth phase—building on its family-first culture and commitment to excellence. Job Summary The Small Projects / Retrofit Estimator is responsible for producing accurate, timely cost estimates for mechanical retrofit, renovation, tenant improvement, and small construction projects involving HVAC, plumbing, and piping systems. This is a field-oriented role that requires prior hands-on mechanical trade experience to effectively evaluate existing conditions, constructability constraints, and installation sequencing. The position supports high-volume, fast-paced estimating and demands the ability to convert real-world site conditions into executable scopes of work, realistic labor assumptions, and competitive pricing strategies. Key Responsibilities Develop detailed cost estimates for mechanical retrofit, renovation, and small-project work. Perform accurate quantity takeoffs using drawings, specifications, site walks, and field knowledge. Assess constructability, access limitations, phasing requirements, shutdowns, and occupied-space constraints. Establish labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing based on proven field production rates. Conduct job site visits to evaluate existing conditions and validate scope and labor assumptions. Collaborate with superintendents, foremen, service managers, and technicians to confirm constructability. Prepare pricing for change orders, add-ons, and scope revisions typical of retrofit projects. Solicit, review, and analyze vendor and subcontractor quotes. Support project handoff by clearly communicating assumptions, exclusions, and field constraints. Maintain organized estimating files, documentation, and historical cost data. Participate in post-project reviews and job cost feedback. Perform additional duties as required to support business needs. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong understanding of HVAC, plumbing, and piping systems. Working knowledge of retrofit and renovation methods in existing facilities. Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and job site safety requirements. Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and as-built documents. Knowledge of mechanical codes applicable to retrofit work. Proven estimating and quantity takeoff skills grounded in field experience. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to constructability and sequencing. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple estimates under tight deadlines. Proficiency with spreadsheet-based estimating tools. Ability to identify field risks and constructability issues early. Capable of translating site conditions into accurate labor and cost assumptions. Self-directed with sound judgment and strong collaboration skills. Adaptable to changing project scopes and priorities. Education and Experience High school diploma or GED required. Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on field experience in mechanical construction, HVAC, plumbing, or piping. Prior estimating experience for retrofit, renovation, or small projects required. Field leadership experience (foreman, service technician, or superintendent) strongly preferred.