Commercial Plumbing Estimator

Position Summary

The Commercial Plumbing Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive bids for commercial plumbing projects across Central Texas. This role is integral to our pre-construction process, working closely with project managers, field superintendents, and ownership to secure new work and support continued growth. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of commercial plumbing systems, take-off methodology, and subcontractor/vendor relationships in the Texas market.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform complete quantity take-offs from construction drawings and specifications for commercial plumbing projects, including new construction, tenant improvements, and renovation work.
• Prepare detailed, itemized bid packages with material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Analyze bid documents including plans, specifications, addenda, and scope of work to identify inclusions, exclusions, and potential risk areas.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing; develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure competitive material costs.
• Participate in pre-bid site walks and pre-bid meetings; coordinate RFI submissions to the GC or owner as needed.
• Manage multiple concurrent bids across various procurement platforms including BuildingConnected and Texas SmartBuy.
• Collaborate with project managers on project handoff, ensuring estimated costs and scope assumptions are clearly communicated.
• Monitor bid calendars and ensure timely submission of all proposals.
• Maintain a database of historical cost data, productivity rates, and lessons learned to improve future estimate accuracy.
• Support value engineering efforts and assist with conceptual or budget-level pricing during early project development.
• Review and understand general contractor requirements, bonding, insurance, and prequalification submittals.
• Coordinate with the Controller and operations team on job cost structure and billing setup at project award.

Qualifications

Required:

• 5 years of estimating experience in commercial plumbing or mechanical contracting.
• Demonstrated ability to perform full take-offs on commercial projects ranging from $100K to $10M in plumbing scope.
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Accubid, QuoteSoft, FastPipe, or similar).
• Strong working knowledge of plumbing codes, systems, and construction documents.
• Experience working with general contractors in a commercial construction environment.
• Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under deadline pressure.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred:

• Experience estimating in the Central Texas / Waco market.
• Familiarity with Texas SmartBuy, BuildingConnected, or other public/private bid platforms.
• Background in plumbing field operations or project management.
• Associates or Bachelors degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Texas Plumbing Inspector or Journeyman license a plus.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based with occasional site visits for pre-bid walks and project review.
• Must be able to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Some local travel within Central Texas required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus tied to bid volume and awarded work.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing education support.