Snapshot / Role Overview
We’re looking for a Senior Mechanical Estimator in San Antonio, TX to lead takeoffs and pricing for large commercial HVAC and plumbing projects.
Impact
Deliver accurate, competitive estimates that help win big projects
Support preconstruction with clear scope and cost breakdowns
Work closely with teams to drive smart, profitable bids
Be the estimating lead on high-profile commercial jobs
Responsibilities
Use takeoff software (FastPipe, FastDuct, Trimble, AutoBid, etc.) to estimate HVAC and plumbing scopes
Review drawings, specs, and job requirements
Price large mechanical projects ($5M–$50M+) across sectors like healthcare, education, labs, and tech
Collaborate with project managers and field teams
Track proposals, budgets, and historical data
Support value engineering and bid reviews
RequirementsMust-Haves
Based in San Antonio with a steady work history
5+ years of mechanical estimating experience
Skilled in HVAC, piping, and plumbing systems
Comfortable with on-screen takeoff tools
Degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant field experience
Nice-to-Haves
Experience on large commercial projects (hospitals, schools, data centers, fabs)
Familiar with platforms like Viewpoint, Maxwell, or Estimation
Prior field experience in mechanical trades (duct, pipe, plumbing)
Compensation & Logistics
Competitive salary + full benefits: health insurance, PTO, paid holidays, and more.
Call to Action
If you're ready to lead estimates on major mechanical projects, apply now or connect with us to learn more.
Freqently Asked Questions
Mechanical estimators in San Antonio must align their cost projections with regional market fluctuations, especially given the city's growing healthcare and tech sectors. Understanding local labor rates and material availability ensures competitive bids that reflect the commercial construction landscape unique to San Antonio, TX.
While not always mandatory, certifications like Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or credentials related to HVAC and plumbing estimating elevate credibility in San Antonio’s construction industry. Employers often favor candidates familiar with region-specific compliance and building codes to streamline project approvals.
Senior mechanical estimators typically bring over five years of industry experience, expertise in software like FastPipe and Trimble, and a comprehensive understanding of large-scale HVAC and plumbing projects. This contrasts with junior roles that focus more on assisting with takeoffs and learning cost analysis fundamentals.
Daily tasks include detailed review of blueprints, performing digital takeoffs for HVAC and plumbing scopes, pricing multi-million dollar projects, and coordinating with project managers. The role requires precision in cost breakdowns and proactive collaboration to produce bids that align with client expectations and tight deadlines.
Salaries for senior mechanical estimators in San Antonio generally range between $85,000 and $110,000 annually, reflecting the demand for experienced professionals capable of handling complex commercial HVAC and plumbing projects. Compensation packages often include comprehensive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
Crescent City Recruitment Group offers tailored job placements that emphasize leadership roles in large-scale mechanical estimating projects. Their network provides access to competitive positions in San Antonio, fostering growth through exposure to diverse commercial sectors like healthcare and education.
Candidates benefit from Crescent City’s connections to high-profile commercial projects and access to advanced estimating tools. The company emphasizes placing senior estimators who can lead bids on projects exceeding $5 million, ensuring involvement in impactful roles with strong career progression potential.
A frequent misunderstanding is that senior mechanical estimators only perform basic cost calculations. In reality, they integrate engineering principles, software proficiency, and strategic value engineering to develop winning bids. Their expertise spans HVAC systems, piping, and collaboration with design engineers to optimize project outcomes.
San Antonio’s expanding commercial construction market, particularly in healthcare and education, elevates the need for estimators who can craft precise, competitive bids. The competition among firms drives demand for senior estimators adept in takeoff technology and capable of managing multi-million-dollar project budgets efficiently.
Senior estimators not only perform detailed cost analyses but also lead estimating teams, mentor juniors, and drive strategic bid decisions. They liaise with project managers and field staff to ensure scope clarity, budget adherence, and alignment with organizational goals, blending technical acumen with managerial oversight.
Popular Searches for Senior Mechanical Estimator