Job Description
Join Our Team as a Preconstruction Estimating Manager!
Are you a strategic leader with deep expertise in mechanical trades who thrives on turning early-stage opportunities into winning, profitable projects? At Modigent companies, we deliver high-quality commercial HVAC, plumbing, and related mechanical systems for buildings, facilities, and industrial clients nationwide. We're seeking a talented Preconstruction Estimating Manager to lead our preconstruction efforts, mentor teams, drive accurate estimating across wet-side (plumbing/HVAC piping) and dry-side (ductwork/HVAC) solutions, and partner closely with sales, design teams, and clients to secure and set up successful projects.
Why Join Us?
- Commitment to Excellence — We prioritize precision, value engineering, risk management, and quality from the first concept through project delivery.
- Customer-Focused Culture — Building lasting relationships, providing innovative technical solutions, and exceeding client expectations drive our success.
- Leadership & Impact — Lead a talented preconstruction team, shape company processes, mentor the next generation, and contribute to growth in commercial mechanical trades.
- Great Perks — Competitive compensation and benefits, collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.
What You'll Do as Preconstruction Estimating Manager:
In this key leadership role, you'll oversee the preconstruction and estimating function for commercial mechanical projects (HVAC, plumbing, piping, ductwork, and related systems). You'll mentor your team while actively contributing to high-level estimating, client relationships, and strategic support. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and mentoring the preconstruction/estimating team to build technical skills, project knowledge, and estimating accuracy across design-build, plan-spec, and cooperative purchasing projects.
- Providing expert technical guidance on optimal equipment selection, system design (piping, ductwork, hydronic/wet-side, air-side/dry-side), value engineering, and constructability for proposals and budgets.
- Preparing conceptual budgets, detailed estimates, and competitive proposals based on minimal to full documentation, including quantity takeoffs, subcontractor/supplier solicitation, scope development, and risk assessment.
- Attending job walks, site visits, client meetings, and coordination sessions to gather insights, build relationships, and support sales/preconstruction efforts.
- Reviewing and analyzing project documents (plans, specs, schedules, general conditions, logistics, hoisting plans) to ensure comprehensive, accurate bids and scopes.
- Preparing RFQ/RFP/IFB/ITB packages, bid documents, and presentations that clearly communicate technical solutions, cost savings, and financial viability.
- Fostering strong relationships with select clients, architects, engineers, owners, general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers to promote Modigent capabilities and secure opportunities.
- Supporting sales through client visits, marketing events, trade shows, initial introductions, and feedback loops to align on needs and perceptions.
- Coordinating with operations, field teams, and management to ensure seamless handoff, on-time/on-budget delivery, contractual compliance, and minimal callbacks/warranty issues.
- Conducting quality assurance reviews, leading high-risk/project coordination meetings, and providing input on process improvements, new business lines, and team development.
- Staying current on industry trends, technologies, codes, and procurement tools (e.g., cooperative contracts) to maintain excellence and drive innovation.
What We're Looking For:
- 8+ years of progressive experience in preconstruction, estimating, or project development for commercial mechanical trades (HVAC, plumbing, piping preferred; mix of wet-side and dry-side expertise a strong plus).
- Proven leadership in mentoring teams, developing estimators, and managing preconstruction processes in a mechanical contracting environment.
- Strong technical knowledge of commercial HVAC/plumbing systems, equipment, design parameters, value engineering, and construction methods.
- Excellent estimating skills: conceptual budgeting, detailed takeoffs, subcontractor management, risk evaluation, and proposal preparation/presentation.
- Exceptional relationship-building, communication (written/verbal), and presentation skills to engage clients, design teams, and internal stakeholders.
- Proficiency in reading/interpreting blueprints, specs, and project documents; familiarity with estimating software/tools a plus.
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments, multitask, solve complex problems, and make decisions that support project and company success.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related field preferred; relevant certifications (e.g., LEED, PE, estimating credentials) advantageous.
- Willingness for occasional travel for site visits, client meetings, or industry events.
If you're a visionary leader passionate about mechanical trades, accurate estimating, team development, and delivering client value in commercial construction, bring your expertise to Modigent and help shape winning projects! Apply today.
Modigent companies are equal opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Pay Range: $130,000 - $155,000 per year