Mechanical Conceptual Estimator - AUCH Construction : Job Details

DUE TO TIME SENSITIVE NATURE OF THIS ROLE - WE ARE LOOKING FOR CANDIDATES ALREADY RESIDING IN THE LOCAL SOUTH EASTERN MICHIGAN AREA.

Title: Mechanical Conceptual Estimator

Position Overview:

The Mechanical Conceptual Estimator is responsible for developing accurate early-phase mechanical systems estimates—often with limited design documentation. This position focuses on HVAC, plumbing, piping, and fire protection systems in markets such as K–12 education, higher education, municipal, and healthcare. The role demands strong analytical skills and a collaborative approach to shaping project budgets and mechanical design strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare conceptual mechanical estimates based on schematics, narratives, or partial drawings

• Work closely with design teams, MEP engineers, and internal stakeholders to understand project intent and mechanical system requirements

• Develop budget pricing and mechanical system options during preconstruction,

• Review and analyze early MEP designs for alignment with project budgets, recommending cost-effective solutions where appropriate

• Participate in value engineering exercises during the early design stages

• Collaborate with subcontractors and suppliers to validate pricing assumptions and maintain current market knowledge

• Identify project risks and recommend strategies to mitigate cost uncertainty in early phases

• Maintain detailed records of past project estimates, pricing trends, and performance metrics for benchmarking

Qualifications & Skills Desired:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience in mechanical systems estimating)

• 7+ years of mechanical estimating experience, with a strong emphasis on conceptual or early-phase budgets

• South Eastern Michigan market experience strongly preferred

Experience with commercial and institutional projects (K–12, higher education, municipal, or healthcare)

• Thorough understanding of HVAC, plumbing, piping, and fire protection systems and their cost drivers

• Proficiency in estimating software such as WinEst, On Screen Take Off and Excel

• Strong knowledge of mechanical codes, system design principles, and construction means and methods

• Exceptional analytical and critical-thinking skills; ability to develop defensible estimates with minimal documentation

• Effective communicator with ability to translate complex technical details into actionable cost information

• Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously in a fast-paced environment

• Up-to-date knowledge of local subcontractor market and mechanical material pricing

Working Environment:

This position is primarily based in an office environment with standard business hours. The role may require occasional site visits to gather field data, attend pre-bid meetings, and assess existing mechanical systems. Field visits may involve navigating active construction sites with uneven terrain, exposure to varying weather conditions, construction equipment, noise, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

In the office, the position involves prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer and phone, and occasional lifting of plans or equipment samples of 10+ pounds. The role requires adaptability, attention to deadlines, and regular coordination with internal teams, vendors, and subcontractors.

Please note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; responsibilities may evolve or change as business needs arise, with or without prior notice.

AUCH Construction is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.