The Commercial HVAC Estimator is responsible for evaluating commercial HVAC project opportunities, reviewing plans and specifications, determining project scope, and preparing accurate, competitive bids and cost estimates. This position works closely with management, field teams, vendors, distributors, and subcontractors to develop proposals that align with project requirements and company goals.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and takes ownership of their work. They are comfortable working independently while collaborating with others to find solutions, build strong relationships, and support the continued growth of the business.

At Tri South Mechanical, we value being Humble, Hungry, and Smart. We look for team members who are willing to learn, take initiative, communicate effectively, and put the success of the team and the customer first. 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

Estimating and Bid Preparation

• Review and interpret commercial HVAC plans, specifications, and project documents to determine the complete scope of work.
• Identify project requirements, potential challenges, exclusions, and opportunities before submitting a bid.
• Conduct job site visits as needed to evaluate existing conditions and confirm project requirements.
• Determine the equipment, materials, labor, and subcontractor resources needed to complete each project.
• Request, collect, and evaluate quotes from vendors, equipment distributors, subcontractors, and internal departments.
• Verify that vendor and subcontractor quotes accurately reflect the project scope, specifications, and required quantities.
• Prepare detailed, accurate, and competitive estimates that account for equipment, materials, labor, subcontractors, and other applicable project costs.
• Review estimates for accuracy, completeness, and alignment with company pricing standards and profitability goals.
• Prepare and submit professional bid proposals and project budgets within established deadlines.
• Follow up on submitted proposals, maintain communication with prospective customers, and support efforts to secure awarded work.
• Maintain an organized and accurate database of bid opportunities, submitted proposals, and project outcomes.
• Work with management to evaluate estimating priorities, pricing strategies, business development opportunities, and project profitability.

Project Coordination and Turnover

• Participate in weekly Operations meetings to review the Priority Report and discuss current, ongoing, and upcoming installation projects.
• Track assigned action items, communicate updates, and follow through on commitments made during meetings.
• Coordinate with equipment distributors and vendors to confirm equipment availability, pricing, lead times, and delivery requirements for bid and awarded projects.
• Communicate project details, scope, pricing, and expectations to the appropriate team members before work begins.
• Meet with the Lead Mechanic and other applicable team members to review and turn over awarded projects.
• Prepare and provide a complete project turnover sheet that clearly outlines the scope of work, equipment, materials, labor considerations, and other relevant project details.
• Create awarded jobs in BuildOps and ensure they are added to the appropriate schedule.
• Verify that quoted pricing for subcontractors, equipment, and materials remains valid before project execution.
• Identify and communicate discrepancies, missing information, or potential cost concerns before the project is handed over to the field team.

Teamwork and Continuous Improvement

• Take ownership of assigned responsibilities and follow projects through to completion.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with management, field team members, vendors, subcontractors, and customers.
• Work collaboratively with the Installation team and other departments to support successful project execution.
• Ask questions, seek feedback, and continuously develop technical knowledge of commercial HVAC systems, equipment, and estimating practices.
• Approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset and communicate potential risks or concerns early.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support business operations and company objectives.

Qualifications and Skills

• Experience estimating commercial HVAC projects, preferably in the commercial mechanical contracting industry.
• Ability to read and interpret commercial HVAC construction plans, specifications, and related technical documents.
• Understanding of HVAC equipment, materials, installation methods, labor requirements, and project costs.
• Experience obtaining and evaluating vendor, distributor, and subcontractor quotes.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prepare accurate estimates within established deadlines.
• Effective organizational, time management, communication, and follow-up skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and project deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel and the ability to learn company software and estimating tools, including BuildOps.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and collaborate effectively with a team.

At Tri South Mechanical, we believe how we work is just as important as what we accomplish.

• Humble: Treat others with respect, remain open to feedback, recognize the expertise of others, and put the team’s success ahead of personal recognition.
• Hungry: Take initiative, follow through on commitments, look for ways to improve, and take ownership of opportunities and challenges.
• Smart: Use good judgment, communicate thoughtfully, build strong working relationships, and understand how decisions affect customers, coworkers, and the business.

We are looking for someone who brings strong estimating skills, a willingness to keep learning, and a team-first mindset to help us deliver quality work and continue growing the right way.