Senior Data Center Estimator

Vertical Mechanical Group•Sterling, VA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG), we are committed to delivering innovative mechanical construction solutions across mission-critical facilities, commercial office buildings, healthcare, higher education, government, multifamily, hospitality, and complex infrastructure projects. As our presence in the data center market continues to expand, we are seeking an experienced Senior Data Center Estimator to help drive strategic growth and support the successful pursuit of high-profile projects. VMG offers a collaborative culture, strong leadership support, and opportunities for professional growth while maintaining the flexibility needed to support work-life balance. The Senior Data Center Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating effort on large-scale, mission-critical mechanical construction projects, including hyperscale and colocation data centers. This role will manage all phases of the estimating process, from conceptual budgeting through final proposal submission, while collaborating closely with operations, engineering, preconstruction, and executive leadership teams. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience estimating mechanical systems for data centers, including HVAC, hydronic piping, plumbing, process piping, and mission-critical infrastructure.

Requirements

8+ years of mechanical estimating experience.
5+ years of experience estimating data center, mission-critical, or large-scale industrial projects.
Strong understanding of HVAC, chilled water, condenser water, plumbing, and process piping systems.
Experience with conceptual estimating, design-build projects, and GMP development.
Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Proficiency with estimating software platforms and Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in construction management, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
Experience with mission-critical environments, hyperscale facilities, or colocation of data centers.
Knowledge of BIM/VDC workflows and constructability review processes.
Experience working for a mechanical contractor.
Familiarity with Procore, Bluebeam, Trimble, Quote Soft, Fast PIPE, or similar estimating software.

Responsibilities

Lead detailed mechanical estimates for data center and mission-critical construction projects.
Analyze drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project scope and pricing strategies.
Prepare conceptual budgets, design-build estimates, GMP proposals, and hard bid estimates.
Develop detailed quantity takeoffs for HVAC, plumbing, hydronic, and mechanical systems.
Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate pricing from subcontractors, vendors, and equipment manufacturers.
Identify project risks, opportunities, value engineering alternatives, and cost-saving solutions.
Participate in design-assist and design-build preconstruction efforts.
Collaborate with project management and operations teams to ensure smooth project turnover.
Assist with proposal development, presentations, and client meetings.
Maintain current market knowledge of labor rates, material pricing, equipment costs, and industry trends.
Support strategic planning efforts related to data center pursuits and market expansion.
Mentor junior estimators and contribute to the development of estimating standards and best practices.