Senior Estimator- Data Center

McKinstry

110d • $84,240 - $145,200

About The Position

McKinstry is innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating lasting impact. Together, we’re building a thriving planet. Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate crisis, generating nearly 40% of total global energy-related carbon emissions. We’re making a lasting impact on our industry and within our communities by addressing the climate, affordability and equity crises through renewables and energy services, engineering and design, construction and facility services. We are currently seeking a Senior Estimator in our Data Center Innovations division to join our team. The Senior DCI Estimator leads estimating and preconstruction activities on complex data center projects. This role develops conceptual and detailed budgets, identifies risk and opportunities, tracks and develops key pricing metrics while providing value engineering and constructability solutions that optimize project outcomes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of experience in estimating and/or preconstruction, including conceptual estimating.
• Demonstrated experience with data center estimating or other mission-critical facilities.
• Proficiency with estimating software (Trimble/Quickpen, Quotesoft, or equivalent) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical & plumbing building systems and cost drivers across multiple geographical markets.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead teams, manage multiple projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage conceptual estimates, budgets, and proposals from early narratives and schematic designs.
• Provide accurate budgets and detailed estimates for large-scale data center projects, including mechanical & plumbing systems.
• Lead scope definition, budget control, and risk management during design and preconstruction phases.
• Communicate detailed bid breakouts to the estimating team and provide clear, client-required breakdowns on projects.
• Track and develop key pricing metrics across multiple geographical markets (labor and material).
• Implement value engineering, constructability, and alternative approaches to maximize project value.
• Partner with project managers to ensure smooth transition from preconstruction to construction.
• Lead estimating reviews, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and proper scope coverage.
• Work with vendors and subcontractors to secure accurate pricing and scope.
• Participate in client meetings, interviews, and business development efforts as needed.
• Utilize company estimating tools, databases, and best practices to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Deliver timely and relevant budget milestone updates to all stakeholders during preconstruction.
• Support preparation of scope letters, RFPs, and subcontractor agreements.

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• 401(k) with employer match and profit-sharing plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision with low or zero deductible options and low out of pocket maximums
• Family formation benefits, including adoption and IVF assistance
• Up to 16 weeks paid parental leave
• Transgender inclusive benefits
• Commuter benefits
• Pet insurance
• “Building Good” paid community service time
• Learning and advancement opportunities via McKinstry University
• McKinstry Moves onsite gyms or reimbursement for remote workers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees