Plumbing Bidding & Estimating Specialist

The Blue Collar Recruiter•Detroit, MI

11d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Plumbing Bidding & Estimating Specialist to support our growing residential and commercial plumbing operations. This role will be responsible for managing the full estimating and bidding process, including reviewing project documents, preparing accurate cost estimates, developing competitive proposals, and collaborating with internal teams to secure profitable work. The ideal candidate has strong plumbing knowledge, experience with construction estimating, and the ability to analyze project requirements, identify costs, and develop winning bids. This position requires a detail-oriented professional who can balance accuracy, efficiency, and strategic thinking to help drive company growth.

Requirements

Proven experience in plumbing estimating, bidding, or preconstruction.
Strong understanding of residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
Experience performing detailed takeoffs and preparing accurate cost estimates.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating software.
Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent organization and ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with operations and leadership teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience bidding plumbing projects for commercial contractors, general contractors, builders, or developers.
Familiarity with construction estimating software and project management platforms.
Knowledge of plumbing codes, industry standards, and construction processes.
Experience negotiating vendor pricing and building supplier relationships.
Background working in the plumbing trade or field operations.

Responsibilities

Manage the complete plumbing bidding and estimating process from initial opportunity review through proposal submission.
Review blueprints, drawings, specifications, and scope documents to determine project requirements.
Perform detailed material and labor takeoffs to develop accurate project estimates.
Analyze project costs, including labor, materials, equipment, subcontractors, permits, and other project-related expenses.
Obtain and evaluate pricing from vendors and suppliers to ensure competitive bids.
Prepare professional proposals, bid packages, and cost breakdowns for residential and commercial plumbing projects.
Identify potential risks, exclusions, and opportunities within project scopes.
Collaborate with project managers, operations teams, and leadership to ensure estimates align with execution capabilities.
Track active bids, upcoming opportunities, deadlines, and project outcomes.
Maintain organized estimating records and historical project data to improve future bidding accuracy.
Participate in pre-bid meetings, client discussions, and project reviews as needed.
Support successful project handoffs from estimating to operations once work is awarded.