Controls Estimator - Building Controls

Controls Estimator – Building ControlsConti LLCLocation: Michigan or Ohio (Preferred: Detroit Metro or Maumee OH Office)Reports To: Director of Building Automation and ControlsWork Environment: Flexible/Hybrid; On‑site presence preferred but not requiredExperience Required: 1–3 years (early career, teachable, growth‑oriented candidates encouraged)OverviewConti LLC is seeking a motivated, detail‑oriented Controls Estimator to support our growing Building Controls division. In this role, you will help turn traditional MEP/electrical systems into smart‑building solutions by estimating building automation, HVAC controls, energy management systems, lighting controls, and related technologies.This position is ideal for a driven, early‑career professional—someone who wants to learn the controls industry, develop into a senior estimator/sales engineer, and grow within a national organization. We provide leads, project opportunities, mentorship, and hands‑on exposure to the full estimating and proposal process.Key ResponsibilitiesEstimating & Proposal DevelopmentReview drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to prepare accurate cost estimates for building control systems.Develop pricing for HVAC controls, lighting controls, energy management systems, and integrated smart‑building solutions.Evaluate design documents to determine required materials, equipment, and labor.Prepare competitive bids and proposals aligned with Conti’s margin targets.Create and submit clear and complete proposal documentation.Sales & Client SupportSupport sales leadership (primarily Mitch) in pursuing leads and RFQs.Participate in pre‑bid walks, post‑bid interviews, and scope review meetings.Take meeting notes, assist with scope development, and support proposal follow‑up.Provide technical answers and clarifications to customers and internal teams as needed.Cross‑Functional CollaborationWork closely with engineering and design teams to validate estimate accuracy and technical feasibility.Support handoff to project managers and operations teams after award.Explain the basis of estimates and design decisions to internal stakeholders.Market Awareness & Process ImprovementStay informed on industry trends, new technologies, and competitor offerings.Assist in refining estimating tools, templates, and pricing methods.Help build scalable estimating processes as the division grows nationally.Types of ProjectsK–12 SchoolsMixed‑Use DevelopmentsCommercial BuildingsIndustrial FacilitiesMulti‑Space/Tenant Fit‑outsData CentersConti has no geographic boundaries—projects can span the Midwest and across the country.Day‑to‑Day BreakdownEstimating and takeoffsRFQ and lead follow‑upPre‑bid walkthroughs and scope notesProposal creationInternal coordination with engineering, PMs, and operationsSales supportConti provides a steady flow of estimating opportunities—this is not a cold-calling or customer‑facing sales role.Software & ToolsBluebeamMicrosoft ExcelBasic understanding of HVAC and building controls preferredProficiency developing takeoffs and reading drawings a plusQualificationsTop Must‑HavesA strong desire to learn, grow, and build a long‑term career in controls estimating.Self‑driven, hungry, and motivated.(1–3 years experience) with foundational knowledge of MEP, electrical, or controls systems.Bonus QualificationsUnderstanding of smart‑building technologies and automation.Experience recognizing high‑performing teams and wanting to be part of a top‑tier group.Exposure to MEP/electrical estimating environments or consulting engineers.Why Join ContiHigh growth opportunity within a rapidly expanding controls divisionStrong mentorship directly from senior leadershipNational reach with flexibility in work locationAbility to grow into estimating, sales engineering, or leadership rolesHealthy project backlog and long‑term organizational investment

Salary : $77,900 - $100,700