This is an entry-level career in the major construction and HVAC industry. Responsibilities will include performing blueprint takeoffs, estimating, writing proposals, bid updates, pre-bid jobwalks, and coordinating with suppliers and subcontractors. 

This position is part of the Business Development (BD) team. The BD team manages all aspects of the sales process including client acquisition, marketing, account management, estimating, and design. 

You've GOT to be a people person to work within the Business Development group and to eventually progress further into estimating (if you want to). There will be conflict (not always but it happens), constant communication (on the PHONE not just email), and a need to be both detail-oriented, as well as big picture thinking. You will interact directly with all types of clients, owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and our own internal team so if you don't like talking, this isn't the job for you. You've got to be on top of your game, good with stress, excellent with math, and not easily offended. 

The best people for this job don't take themselves too seriously, are honest and straight-forward communicators, and enjoy the pressure of the construction industry. Having a great sense of humor helps too.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s or Associates Degree in engineering or construction or Four-year technical degree in Mechanical, HVAC, or Electronics related studies or 2 years of experience in commercial/institutional construction industry
• Valid California Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record
• As a condition of employment, candidate must pass a background check and drug test

Required Knowledge:

• Understanding of Company operations and needs.
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Working knowledge of MS Office, QuoteSoft, Bluebeam, Procore, and Building Connected
• Intermediate knowledge of MS Excel – use of formulas, formatting, and calculations
• Knowledge of blueprints, specifications, sketches, and building plans

Experience Required:

• Entry-level position, no degree required if the work-requirement of 2 years in construction is satisfied
• 2 years of industry experience OR parallel course work in a related educational major - a construction management degree is preferred

Skills/Abilities:

• Able to work well independently and in a strong team atmosphere
• An ability to understand empathetically the issues and perceptions others have and to creatively and successfully worth through these issues to achieve a successful outcome and customer and employee satisfaction.
• An ability to network and meet with subcontractors and suppliers in order to increase the amount of quality bidders on the bid list
• Excellent phone and email writing skills
• High level of persistence and determination to succeed and prepare quality, winning estimates
• Utilizes strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Excellent grasp of the written and spoken English language
• Able to operate computer applications (Microsoft Office and scheduling software).
• Tactful and mature demeanor with well developed interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with diverse personalities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

On-going Estimating Responsibilities

1. Analyze blueprints, construction drawings, specifications, RFPs, addendums and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
2. Thoroughly review front ends and specifications for scope or pricing impact items.
3. Obtain and evaluate material, equipment, and subcontractor quotes.
4. Prepare conceptual estimates for budgeting projects.
5. Review bid documents for potential conflicts and constructability issues.
6. Communicate with clients, gather all necessary data, and analyze all information in order to assemble complete project cost.
7. Confer with owners, general contractors, construction managers, engineers, and designers on changes or adjustments for estimates.

Prepare quantity take-offs based on plans and specifications

1. Using in-house estimating software to take-off on ductwork footage, equipment counts, and material estimates for mechanical portion of work
2. Assist in developing scope take-offs for other trades including plumbing, electrical, finishes, and other trades. Update scope specific bid packages in Building Connected throughout the bid.
3. Coordinate trades, identify scope gaps in coverage and confirm scope coverage
4. Review plans and RFPs to generate pre-bid RFIs

Assists in sales, proposals, and business development activities as needed

1. Assist in development of proposal and scope letter, including construction work plan, inclusions, exclusions, clarifications, and other required bid submittal items
2. Attend jobwalks with business development, account managers, and estimating team in order to visually inspect the site prior to submitting a bid

Communicate with subcontractors, suppliers, and other related bidders in order to coordinate submittal of bids

1. Analyze blueprints, construction drawings, and other documentation to prepare list of required trades, material, and equipment
2. Draft subcontractor bid packages on Building Connected.
3. Verify all vendors who supply equipment listed on plan schedules are included in bid packages. Include vendors who are listed in specifications as equals.
4. Assist in calling subcontractors and suppliers to verify intent to bid
5. Collect and review submitted scope letters and pricing from subcontractors
6. Maintain courteous and respectful communication with all subcontractors and suppliers in order to develop a comprehensive bid list.
7. Maintain and develop list of qualified bidders, including updated contacts for bidders in the system