Conduct regionally-specific market research on mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
Maintain detailed records of historical project costs, including labor, materials, and equipment
Analyze historical data to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for cost optimization
Develop conceptual budgets for MEP scope elements based on market analysis and project scope
Prepare detailed estimates for labor, materials, and equipment
Generate cost variance reports at major design milestones
Solicit and analyze subcontractor, vendor, and OEM pricing for electrical distribution, generators, switchgear, UPS, mechanical cooling systems, plumbing, fire protection, fire alarm, BMS/controls, and low-voltage/security systems
Collaborate with general contractors and trade-partners to reconcile project costs and ensure scope alignment
Conduct thorough constructability reviews focused on mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and low-voltage scopes
Assist in developing comprehensive RFP documentation for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and low-voltage/security scopes
Draft specific language for RFPs to ensure precise scope definitions and requirements
Support the coordination and conduction of site walks focused on relevant elements
Perform bid leveling for bids to compare and normalize proposals.

4+ years of estimating experience with a strong emphasis on mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and low-voltage scopes in mission-critical, data center, or other heavy industrial projects
Proven ability to estimate projects $50M+ in total construction value
Ability to perform quantity takeoffs for MEP systems, including electrical distribution and conduit/feeders, generators and switchgear, mechanical cooling and air handling, piping and plumbing, fire protection, fire alarm, BMS/controls, and structured cabling/low-voltage
Proficiency with estimating software (Destini, RIB CostX, WinEst, or similar) and Microsoft Excel
Solid understanding of data center-specific challenges, including critical power and cooling topologies, redundancy concepts, and the ability to read and interpret MEP drawings, single-line diagrams, and specifications
Familiarity with electrical and mechanical equipment lead times and procurement strategy for long-lead items such as generators, switchgear, transformers, and UPS systems
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment while collaborating with the estimating team.

MEP Estimator – Data Center Construction

About this role