Estimator II – Commercial Mechanical HVAC

Frankfort, IL

Job Details

Job Type

Full-time

Estimator II – Commercial Mechanical HVAC

Frankfort, IL

Compensation: Competitive Salary (DOE) + 10% Performance Bonus 

Vehicle: Company vehicle provided

Additional Perks: Company Cell Phone & Laptop

About PremiStar South

PremiStar South, formerly Southwest Town Mechanical, is a leading mechanical contractor 

serving the Chicagoland area with expertise in commercial and industrial HVAC, plumbing, 

piping, and mechanical services. Backed by the resources of the nationwide PremiStar 

organization, the company combines the stability of a national platform with the reputation 

and customer relationships Southwest Town Mechanical has built over decades.

With a strong focus on safety, customer service, and technical excellence, PremiStar South 

continues to invest in its people while providing long-term career opportunities and a 

consistent pipeline of commercial and industrial projects.

The Opportunity

PremiStar South is seeking an experienced Estimator II to join our growing preconstruction 

team.

This position plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of commercial 

mechanical projects by preparing accurate, competitive, and profitable estimates for 

HVAC, piping, plumbing, and mechanical systems. The Estimator II will collaborate closely 

with project managers, operations, vendors, subcontractors, and customers to develop 

complete project budgets while identifying opportunities to maximize value and minimize 

risk.

The ideal candidate has a strong background estimating commercial mechanical projects, 

understands construction documents and mechanical systems, and thrives in a 

collaborative, fast-paced environment where attention to detail and accuracy are essential.

What You'll Do

Prepare complete cost estimates for commercial HVAC, plumbing, piping, and mechanical 

construction projects.

Review construction drawings, specifications, bid documents, and project requirements to 

develop accurate scopes of work.

Perform quantity takeoffs for mechanical equipment, piping, ductwork, plumbing systems, 

insulation, controls, and related materials.

Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure competitive pricing.

Develop detailed labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and miscellaneous cost 

estimates.

Analyze project risks, constructability concerns, and value engineering opportunities.

Coordinate with operations, project management, engineering, and field leadership during 

the estimating process.

Attend pre-bid meetings, job walks, and customer meetings as required.

Prepare bid proposals, bid summaries, clarifications, and supporting documentation.

Maintain estimating databases, historical cost information, and vendor pricing.

Assist with project turnover meetings to ensure successful handoff from estimating to 

operations.

Support negotiated work, conceptual budgets, design-build projects, and hard-bid 

opportunities.

Stay current on market pricing, industry trends, labor rates, and material cost fluctuations.

Promote company standards for quality, professionalism, safety, and customer service 

throughout the estimating process.

What We're Looking For

5+ years of estimating experience in commercial mechanical construction.

Strong experience estimating commercial HVAC systems, piping, plumbing, and 

mechanical equipment.

Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, mechanical schedules, 

and contract documents.

Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs and preparing complete project 

estimates.

Strong understanding of commercial HVAC equipment, duct systems, hydronic piping, 

plumbing systems, controls, and mechanical construction practices.

Knowledge of labor productivity, installation methods, equipment pricing, and 

subcontractor management.

Experience with estimating software, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, and digital takeoff 

platforms.

Excellent organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.

Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with customers, vendors, 

subcontractors, project managers, and operations teams.

Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.

Knowledge of design-build, negotiated, and competitive bid processes preferred.

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field 

preferred, but equivalent industry experience will be considered.

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and company holidays

Company cell phone and laptop

Professional development and technical training

Career advancement opportunities within the PremiStar family of companies

Collaborative team environment with long-term career stability

Why Join PremiStar South?

Become part of one of Chicagoland's most respected commercial mechanical contractors 

with the backing and resources of the nationwide PremiStar organization.

Work on a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial mechanical projects while 

collaborating with experienced project managers, engineers, and field leaders. You'll have 

the opportunity to contribute to high-profile projects, expand your technical expertise, and 

build a long-term career with a company that values integrity, teamwork, safety, and 

continuous professional growth