Assistant Estimator - Industrial Construction

Burkes Mechanical is a multi-state heavy industrial contractor providing mechanical, electrical, civil construction, and fabrication services to pulp & paper, chemical, petroleum, and manufacturing facilities. With over 1,000 employees and regional offices across the Southeast, we offer stability, growth, and the opportunity to build an exciting career with a growing company.

We are currently hiring an Assistant Estimator for our Hoover, AL location.

Position Summary

The Assistant Estimator - Industrial Construction supports the preconstruction and estimating team in the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for heavy industrial construction projects. This position assists with reviewing project plans and specifications, performing quantity takeoffs, obtaining vendor and subcontractor pricing, and developing labor, material, and equipment cost estimates. The Assistant Estimator works closely with estimators, project managers, engineers, and field personnel throughout the bidding process to help ensure complete and accurate proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing estimates for heavy industrial construction projects.
• Review drawings, specifications, bid documents, P&IDs, equipment information, and other project documents to understand project scope.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for piping, mechanical equipment, structural steel, and other industrial construction scopes.
• Assist with developing material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Assist with developing labor-hour estimates and productivity assumptions.
• Assist with preparing bid summaries, scope sheets, clarifications, exclusions, and proposals.
• Identify discrepancies, missing information, and potential scope gaps within bid documents.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project walkthroughs.
• Assist with estimating change orders, budget updates, and value-engineering opportunities.
• Maintain organized estimating files, takeoffs, quotes, and supporting documentation.
• Develop an understanding of construction means and methods, production rates, labor requirements, and project execution strategies.
• Support the preconstruction team through the complete bid process from initial document review through proposal submission and project turnover.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Building Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Industrial field experience or trade experience may be considered in lieu of a four-year degree.
• Basic understanding of construction drawings, P&IDs, specifications, and engineering documents.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Valid driver's license, clean driving record, and ability to travel to project locations as needed.

Work Requirements

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with frequent use of computers, estimating software, and standard office equipment.
• Regular travel to project sites, vendor facilities, and client locations may be required for site visits, pre-bid meetings, project walkthroughs, and field investigations.
• Must be willing and able to access active industrial construction sites, manufacturing facilities, power plants, and other heavy industrial environments.