What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Piping Estimator position at Kimmel & Associates?
About the Company
The company is a trusted mechanical contracting firm headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, with an additional office in Wilmington. The company has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, energy-efficient mechanical solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial clients across the region.
About the Position
The company is seeking an experienced Industrial Piping Estimator to join its Raleigh, NC office.
This individual will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for industrial and HVAC piping systems, coordinating with suppliers and vendors, and supporting the sales and operations teams throughout the bidding and project award process. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of industrial and HVAC piping systems, the ability to interpret complex mechanical drawings and specifications, and the technical insight to develop pricing even from incomplete designs.
This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously, and excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders, subcontractors, and clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Review project plans and specifications, identify upcoming bid opportunities, and notify the commercial sales team.
- Perform detailed takeoffs of materials, equipment, and labor based on project documents.
- Obtain and evaluate pricing from suppliers and vendors for equipment and materials.
- Estimate labor hours and installation costs for industrial and HVAC piping systems.
- Develop complete, accurate cost estimates following standard estimating procedures.
- Utilize Autobid and other computerized estimating systems for takeoffs and cost development.
- Prepare project pricing summaries and review with the commercial sales team.
- Interpret and apply mechanical system knowledge for air handlers, boilers (steam and hot water), chillers, cooling towers, pumps, heat exchangers, terminal units, and humidifiers.
- Perform sizing, layout, and material selection for piping systems, including pipe, valves, and fittings.
- Generate estimates and budgets based on incomplete or conceptual designs, understanding system intent and scope.
- Manage multiple simultaneous bids and follow up consistently on outstanding proposals.
- Support procurement and submittal processes after project award, assisting the industrial piping manager with final buy lists and materials.
Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of experience in mechanical or industrial piping estimation, preferably within the HVAC or heavy mechanical sectors.
- Strong understanding of HVAC piping systems, including air handlers, chillers, boilers, pumps, heat exchangers, and related equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings, plans, and specifications.
- Proficiency with Autobid, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and related estimating tools.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
Benefits
- Competitive base salary ($95,000 – $130,000, commensurate with experience)
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development and advancement opportunities
- Work with one of North Carolina’s most respected mechanical contracting firms
Salary : $95,000 - $130,000