What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator - Plumbing & HVAC (Commercial Construction) position at Whitegate Construction Group?
We are seeking a highly driven and detail-oriented Estimator to join our growing Plumbing & HVAC division. The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and strategic estimates for commercial and multifamily construction projects across the Mid-Atlantic and East Coast regions.
This role is critical to the continued growth of the company and requires someone who can combine technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking to help secure profitable work while maintaining high-quality bid standards.
The ideal candidate has experience estimating large-scale multifamily, hospitality, mixed-use, and commercial projects and thrives in a fast-paced, high-performance environment.---
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Bid Preparation
Prepare detailed Plumbing and/or HVAC estimates for commercial construction projects.
Review drawings, specifications, RFQs, addendums, and bid documents in detail.
Perform quantity takeoffs and labor analysis.
Solicit and level vendor and subcontractor pricing.
Build complete estimates including:
Material
Labor
Equipment
General conditions
Risk factors
Allowances
Markups
Ensure estimates align with project schedules, manpower availability, and operational capabilities.
Assist in developing value engineering (VE) alternatives where applicable.
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Preconstruction & Bid Strategy
Participate in pre-bid meetings and internal bid strategy reviews.
Work closely with operations, purchasing, and business development teams.
Help identify project risks and opportunities during the bidding phase.
Maintain awareness of market pricing trends, labor conditions, and material fluctuations.
Support buyout and handoff processes following project award.
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Systems & Process Management
Maintain organized estimating files and bid documentation.
Update internal pricing databases and labor units.
Assist in developing standardized estimating systems and procedures.
Work within company estimating software, bid platforms, and project management systems.
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Qualifications
Required
3 years of estimating experience in commercial Plumbing and/or HVAC construction.
Strong understanding of commercial construction systems and methods.
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
Experience with multifamily, hospitality, healthcare, or large commercial projects preferred.
Strong numerical, analytical, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously under tight deadlines.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and construction estimating software.
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Preferred
Experience with BuildingConnected, PlanGrid, Procore, or similar platforms.
Knowledge of value engineering and cost optimization strategies.
Understanding of procurement and buyout processes.
Field experience in Plumbing or HVAC construction is a plus.
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What We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone who:
Takes ownership and accountability.
Operates with urgency and attention to detail.
Thinks commercially, not just technically.
Wants to help build a world-class construction company.
Communicates professionally with vendors, GCs, and internal teams.
Thrives in a structured, high-performance environment.
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Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience.
Performance-based bonus opportunities.
Career growth within a rapidly expanding company.
Opportunity to work on large-scale commercial projects.
Collaborative and ambitious team environment.
Salary : $60,000 - $100,000