Building Automation Systems (BAS) Estimator

EMCOR Services Automated Controls•Columbus, OH

8d•Onsite

About The Position

DeBra-Kuempel is seeking a Building Automation Systems (BAS) Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive, and profitable cost estimates for building automation system projects. The Estimator reviews project plans, specifications, and customer requirements to develop bids and proposals for new installations, retrofits, and system upgrades. The role also supports business development by maintaining relationships with mechanical contractors, consulting engineers, developers, and strategic partners. The position requires technical knowledge of BAS and HVAC controls systems alongside analytical, communication, and organizational skills to support projects from initial pursuit through turnover.

Requirements

Associate degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Building Automation, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
At least 2 years of experience in estimating or related roles in building automation systems, HVAC controls, DDC, or the smart buildings industry.
Strong technical understanding of BAS platforms, protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, and LON, control sequences, mechanical and electrical systems, and integration with lighting, metering, fire, and security systems.
Proficiency with take-off and estimating tools or software, such as Bluebeam, and ERP/CRM systems.
Strong knowledge of construction processes, labor rates, material pricing, and project delivery methods in commercial and industrial sectors.
Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail and accuracy under deadlines.
Strong communication skills for interacting with sales teams, customers, engineers, and vendors.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and control drawings.

Nice To Haves

Manufacturer-specific certifications or training, such as Niagara Certification, Tridium, Siemens, Johnson Controls, or Honeywell.
Experience estimating healthcare, data center, higher education, or large-portfolio projects with an energy or performance contracting focus.
Familiarity with LEED or sustainability requirements, fault detection and diagnostics (FDD), BAS cybersecurity standards, and remote or cloud-based systems.
Previous field experience in BAS installation, commissioning, or service.
Knowledge of prevailing wage, union labor, or public-sector bidding processes.

Responsibilities

Review and interpret architectural, mechanical, and electrical plans; specifications; sequences of operation; RFPs; and addenda to determine project scope and requirements.
Perform detailed take-offs for BAS components, including controllers, sensors, actuators, valves, dampers, wiring, software, and programming hours.
Develop bills of materials, labor estimates for installation, commissioning, programming, and project management, subcontractor quotes, and overhead and profit margins.
Estimate costs for plan-and-spec, design-build, and performance-contract projects.
Select appropriate control system hardware and software and ensure compliance with project specifications and standards.
Identify vendor pricing opportunities, value engineering opportunities, risks, exclusions, assumptions, and potential change-order items to mitigate bid risks and improve competitiveness.
Support the full bid lifecycle and project transition by preparing proposals with scope narratives and pricing breakdowns, and negotiating scope, price, and value engineering requests with clients.
Maintain estimating databases, templates, and historical cost data, and monitor BAS industry trends, pricing changes, and emerging technologies.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the role and organization.