We are the top HVAC recruitment and staffing agency in Houston, Texas. We are a national engineering and technical staffing agency specializing in recruiting HVAC Estimators for high‑growth commercial construction, mechanical contracting, and design‑build environments. Our client is a leading mechanical contractor delivering HVAC system installations, retrofits, tenant improvements, and large‑scale mechanical construction projects for office buildings, hospitals, universities, data centers, industrial facilities, and government campuses.
Their estimating team develops accurate, competitive, and detailed HVAC cost proposals using industry‑standard estimating software, mechanical drawings, specifications, and engineering documents. With a strong focus on precision, cost control, and project profitability, the company supports Texas’s rapidly expanding commercial construction market.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Review mechanical drawings, specifications, addendums, and project documents to prepare accurate HVAC estimates.
- Develop detailed cost estimates for HVAC systems including RTUs, AHUs, VAVs, VRF/VRV systems, chillers, boilers, pumps, ductwork, piping, and controls.
- Perform quantity takeoffs for ductwork, piping, equipment, insulation, and accessories using estimating software.
- Analyze project scope, labor requirements, material costs, subcontractor pricing, and equipment selections.
- Prepare bid proposals, budgets, and cost breakdowns for design‑build, plan‑and‑spec, and negotiated projects.
- Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field supervisors to validate constructability and installation methods.
- Evaluate vendor quotes, subcontractor bids, and equipment pricing to ensure accuracy and competitiveness.
- Develop value‑engineering options, cost‑saving alternatives, and system optimization recommendations.
- Attend pre‑bid meetings, site walks, and client presentations as needed.
- Coordinate with engineering teams to clarify design intent, load calculations, and equipment selections.
- Ensure compliance with ASHRAE standards, IMC, IECC, and local building codes.
- Maintain estimating databases, cost histories, and pricing libraries for continuous improvement.
- Support project handoff meetings, budget reviews, and construction planning activities.
- Monitor market pricing trends, labor rates, and material cost fluctuations.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, estimating process enhancements, and team development.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
- Equivalent experience in HVAC estimating or mechanical construction may be considered.
Required Skills and Experience
- 5+ years of experience in HVAC estimating, mechanical construction estimating, or MEP cost analysis.
- Strong understanding of HVAC systems, mechanical equipment, ductwork, piping, and building systems.
- Proficiency with estimating software such as Trimble AutoBid, FastEST, QuoteSoft, or similar tools.
- Experience reading and interpreting mechanical drawings, specifications, and engineering documents.
- Strong knowledge of ASHRAE standards, IMC, IECC, and local building codes.
- Ability to perform accurate quantity takeoffs and develop detailed cost breakdowns.
- Experience working with vendors, subcontractors, and equipment suppliers.
- Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem‑solving skills.
- Excellent communication, documentation, and proposal‑writing abilities.
- Ability to work under deadlines and manage multiple bids simultaneously.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with design‑build HVAC projects or mechanical engineering design.
- Background in commercial construction, industrial facilities, or mission‑critical environments.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, or BIM‑based plan review.
- Experience with labor‑productivity databases such as MCA or SMACNA standards.
- Knowledge of BAS controls, energy‑efficient HVAC technologies, or LEED‑related design.
- Professional certifications such as ASPE, CEM, or mechanical trade credentials.
