Mechanical Estimator 1 - Tysons, VA

About M.C. Dean

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation’s most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises.  With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.

Why Join Us?

Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values agility, expertise, and trust—we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment.  At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.  

The Mechanical Estimator 1 assists senior estimators and project teams in preparing accurate cost estimates, budgetary pricing, and proposal packages for mechanical construction projects. This role supports the estimating process for HVAC, plumbing, piping, fuel systems, controls, and other mechanical infrastructure projects by performing quantity takeoffs, analyzing drawings and specifications, obtaining vendor and subcontractor pricing, and helping develop competitive bids and design-build proposals.

• Assist in preparing detailed cost estimates, bid proposals, and design-build proposals for mechanical construction projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from contract drawings, specifications, BIM models, and other project documents.
• Support the pricing of change orders, scope modifications, and additional work requests.
• Participate in site visits and pre-bid walkthroughs to assess existing conditions, project constraints, and constructability requirements.
• Review and interpret mechanical plans, specifications, schedules, and contract documents to identify material, equipment, labor, and subcontractor requirements.
• Understand and apply estimating principles, labor productivity factors, and cost fundamentals in the development of project estimates.
• Maintain current pricing information for mechanical equipment, materials, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Prepare bid packages and solicit quotations from mechanical subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, and vendors.
• Assist in evaluating vendor and subcontractor proposals to ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, project management, and procurement teams during project pursuit and planning activities.
• Develop and maintain organized estimate files, takeoff documentation, and pricing databases.
• Support value engineering and cost-saving initiatives during the proposal and preconstruction phases.
• Ensure estimates comply with project specifications, applicable codes, and customer requirements.
• Develop specific goals and work plans to effectively prioritize, organize, and complete assignments.
• Produce high-quality, accurate work while meeting proposal and bid deadlines.
• Work effectively in a team environment to support successful project pursuits and business objectives.
• Must successfully pass a background check.

• A competitive salary
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• 401k Retirement Plan
• Military Reserve pay offset
• Paid maternity leave

• 0+ years experience with a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Engineering, preferably Electrical Engineering
• 4+ years of experience with an Associate’s Degree
• 6+ years experience with a high school diploma or GED
• Basic understanding of mechanical construction systems, including HVAC, plumbing, piping, fuel systems, and associated equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, schematics, P&IDs, specifications, and construction documents.
• Familiarity with mechanical equipment, materials, and installation methods.
• Knowledge of contract documents such as drawings, specifications, addenda, subcontract agreements, and scope narratives.
• Understanding of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of mechanical plans and construction documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Working knowledge of estimating software (Trimble, FastPIPE, QuoteSoft, Accubid Anywhere, or similar) is a plus.
• Working knowledge of BIM and model-based estimating tools is a plus.

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail
• Cost Analysis and Estimating Fundamentals
• Mechanical Systems Knowledge
• Construction Document Review
• Vendor and Subcontractor Coordination
• Planning and Organization
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Continuous Learning and Professional Development

This position provides a foundation for career growth into Mechanical Estimator II, Senior Estimator, Preconstruction Manager, or other leadership roles within the mechanical construction and preconstruction organization.

Abilities:

• Exposure to computer screens for an extended period of time.
• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
• Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard.
• Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
• Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
• Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
• Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
• Identify and understand the speech of another person.