Mechanical Estimator -Conveyor and Material Handling

Talascend is seeking a Mechanical Estimator for an opportunity with a trusted mechanical installation company specializing in conveyor systems, robotics, material handling equipment, platforms, and structural steel. We partner with major contractors and integrators nationwide to deliver safe, high-quality installations that keep modern facilities moving.

Position Summary
The Mechanical Estimator is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for mechanical installation projects. This role supports conveyor, robotics, and material handling installation operations by translating customer requirements, drawings, and specifications into clear, well-structured estimates that enable profitable project execution. The Mechanical Estimator works closely with operations, project management, sales, and field leadership to ensure scope clarity, constructability, and risk awareness prior to project award.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare detailed mechanical installation estimates for projects including, but not limited to, package conveyor systems, sortation equipment, robotics support structures, platforms, mezzanines, and structural steel installations.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from drawings, models, and specifications.
• Develop clear labor, equipment, material, subcontract, and indirect cost breakouts for each estimate.
• Identify scope gaps, assumptions, clarifications, and exclusions and document them within each proposal.
• Evaluate constructability, installation sequencing, and site conditions to assess labor productivity and risk.
• Maintain estimating templates, assemblies, and historical cost data to improve accuracy and consistency.

Coordination & Communication

• Collaborate with sales, operations, project managers, and field supervisors to validate scope, labor strategies, and execution plans.
• Participate in internal handoff meetings to support smooth transition from estimate to awarded project.
• Communicate professionally with customers, vendors, and subcontractors regarding scope clarifications and pricing inputs.
• Support value engineering efforts and alternative installation approaches when appropriate.

Schedule & Compliance

• Ensure all estimates are completed and submitted within required timeframes.
• Adhere to internal estimating standards, review processes, and approval thresholds.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating accuracy by participating in post-project reviews and lessons learned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 2–5 years of hands-on mechanical installation experience in material handling, conveyor systems, structural steel, or industrial construction.
• Demonstrated understanding of mechanical installation means and methods.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the professionalism to interact directly with customers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and layouts; working knowledge of CAD or similar design tools is required.
• High School Diploma or GED required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a mechanical estimating or preconstruction role.
• Experience estimating conveyor systems, automation, or robotics-related installations.
• Familiarity with labor productivity analysis and installation cost modeling.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience working in fast-paced, deadline-driven project environments.

Core Competencies

• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Time management and ability to prioritize multiple estimates
• Team-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership
• Practical field-based judgment

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications and will be determined by agreement between company  and the employee.
• Benefits package available consistent with company policy.

Physical & Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with occasional travel to job sites for walk-throughs and pre-bid assessments.
• Must be able to review construction drawings and work at a computer for extended periods.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications.