MEP Estimator

Overaa•Richmond, CA

9d•$135,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

As an MEP Estimator, you will provide mechanical, electrical, and plumbing estimating and preconstruction services across a diverse portfolio of commercial construction projects. Working closely with a lead estimator and the broader estimating team, you will develop accurate, competitive estimates that support Overaa’s success across multiple market sectors. You will lead MEP estimates, perform detailed quantity takeoffs, solicit and analyze subcontractor pricing, provide system and budget recommendations, and build strong relationships with trade partners. This position requires extensive MEP knowledge, sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. The MEP Estimator will review and level proposals to verify scope completeness; identify exclusions, qualifications, overlaps, and gaps; evaluate pricing and alternates; and ensure bids align with contract documents and project requirements. This individual must be able to look beyond the bottom-line number, understand the assumptions behind each proposal, recognize potential cost and scope exposure, and clearly communicate findings and recommendations to the preconstruction and project teams.

Requirements

Five or more years of MEP estimating or preconstruction experience in a commercial construction environment.
Demonstrated success estimating and managing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing scopes.
Strong knowledge of commercial MEP systems, installation methods, constructability, and cost drivers.
Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs, scope analysis, subcontractor comparisons, and bid leveling.
Design-build experience.
Conceptual estimating experience.
Ability to provide MEP system and budgetary recommendations to clients and project teams.
Strong creative problem-solving and value-engineering skills.
Ability to manage multiple estimates, priorities, and deadlines concurrently.
Strong organization, communication, collaboration, and follow-through.
Four-year university degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Excel-based estimating templates.
Experience with BuildingConnected bidding software.
Experience with On-Screen Takeoff.
Proficiency with Bluebeam.
Experience with PlanGrid or similar construction-document platforms.

Nice To Haves

Prior estimating experience with a major mechanical or electrical subcontractor.
Established relationships with Bay Area mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and specialty trade partners.
Experience estimating projects across multiple commercial construction markets.
Familiarity with energy-efficient MEP systems and sustainable construction practices.

Responsibilities

Lead successful and competitive MEP estimates for projects across a variety of commercial construction markets.
Perform accurate quantity takeoffs, scope reviews, and bid analyses.
Solicit competitive pricing from mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and other specialty subcontractors.
Develop and maintain a broad network of strong subcontractor and trade-partner relationships.
Provide MEP system, constructability, and budget recommendations to clients and internal project teams.
Develop conceptual estimates during early design and preconstruction.
Identify opportunities for value engineering, energy-efficient solutions, and creative problem-solving.
Support design-build projects and collaborate with design teams, consultants, owners, and trade partners.
Manage multiple estimates and preconstruction assignments simultaneously.
Meet bid deadlines and complete assignments accurately and on time in a collaborative team environment.
Partner with project estimators and operations teams to ensure effective turnover of MEP scopes from preconstruction to construction.