Mechanical Estimator I

At Horwitz, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers. For over 100 years, we’ve been a leader in HVAC, plumbing, electrical services, delivering exceptional service while fostering a supportive and innovative workplace. Joining our team means working with passionate professionals in a culture built on safety, accountability, professionalism, motivation, curiosity, and a can-do attitude.

We’re committed to your growth with training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities. Along with competitive benefits—you’ll be part of a company that values its employees and makes a positive impact in the community. Join Horwitz and become part of a legacy of excellence and opportunity.

Position Overview:

The Mechanical Estimator plays a critical role in the success of Horwitz’s preconstruction efforts. This individual is responsible for preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates for plumbing, piping, and sheet metal systems across a wide range of commercial and industrial construction projects. Collaborating closely with internal project teams, trade partners, vendors, and clients, the Estimator ensures scope clarity and cost certainty. This position exemplifies the Horwitz culture by demonstrating our core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do, and Curious—and supports our mission to Get better every day.

Key Responsibilities:

These responsibilities generally describe the nature of the position and may not be all inclusive:

• Estimating & Proposal Development 

  • Analyze project drawings, specifications, and design narratives to develop thorough material and labor take-offs.
• • Utilize estimating software and Excel to prepare competitive cost estimates for mechanical systems, including plumbing, piping, and HVAC.
• • Perform bid breakouts at the request of general contractors
• • Write concise and technically accurate proposals reflecting the project scope, assumptions, inclusions, and clarifications.

• Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination 

  • Contact and solicit pricing from vendors and suppliers for major equipment and materials.
• • Communicate with trade partners such as temperature controls, insulation, and balancing contractors to incorporate complete system pricing.

• Client Interaction & Collaboration 

  • Attend pre-estimate jobsite walkthroughs and customer meetings to verify conditions and ensure scope alignment.

• Internal Team Integration 

  • Work closely with Project Managers to understand constructability and logistical requirements for accurate pricing.
• • Participate in internal estimate review meetings to validate assumptions and confirm cost accuracy.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Conduct yourself in accordance with Horwitz core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do and Curious.

• Get better every day.

Skills and Abilities:

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Effective time management under tight deadlines with multiple active bids.
• Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite proficiency.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.

Education & Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Estimating, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of estimating or construction experience in a mechanical contracting environment preferred.
• General knowledge of mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, piping).
• Experience with QuoteSoft or other estimating software preferred.

Licenses & Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with a motor vehicle record in compliance with company policy.

Travel Requirements

• Occasional local travel for jobsite visits and project walkthroughs