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.