Determines cost estimate targets for projects. Develops subcontractor relationships to support McCarthy business objectives and values.
An estimator starts each project by reviewing the project scope documents and building plans to create a list of materials needed to construct the structure. Skills like quantity takeoffs and construction management are commonly listed on estimating manager resumes.
Developing and Maintaining Relationships with Subcontractors
The day-to-day responsibilities of a mechanical estimator include researching the cost of materials, labor, sourcing options and permit costs for different projects. This data is used by those in charge to make decisions on projects and help ensure budgets are met. They are also tasked with communicating pricing information to subcontractors and vendors.
As a mechanical estimating manager, you need to maintain a strong working relationship with your subcontractors in order to encourage a good work ethic and a quality finished product. One way to do this is to set clear expectations on what you expect from them. This can be done by creating a schedule of milestones for when certain tasks should be completed and clearly stating what needs to be accomplished by each party. This will help to eliminate confusion over what each party is expected to do and can also help them manage their time more effectively.
Another way to develop a positive working relationship with your subcontractors is to keep an open line of communication throughout the project. This can be done by regularly checking in with each of them to see how the project is progressing and if they have any questions. You should also provide candid feedback on any issues that come up during the project, especially if they result in cost increases or scheduling changes. This will allow the subcontractors to address the issue quickly and can prevent miscommunications that may lead to misunderstandings between the parties.
As a Mechanical Estimating Manager you will oversee and prepare formal job bids through interpreting blueprints, performing take-offs and estimating project costs. This includes preparing mechanical estimate packages for commercial, multifamily, industrial and fabrication projects. You will also interface with clients and their representatives to ensure technical specifications and designs are feasible and consistent with industry standards. You will be responsible for identifying project labor, material and time requirements by studying proposals, blueprints and written specifications. You will participate in preconstruction meetings and negotiate job pricing with client representatives. You will also assist accounting with monthly AIA billing and preparation of QuickBooks invoices for payments as well as collect lien releases from vendors.
Developing Relationships with Clients
Developing relationships with clients is an essential aspect of a mechanical estimating manager’s job. This includes establishing the right level of communication, being honest with them and fostering a positive work environment. It also involves providing a smooth experience for the client, both before they reach out to you and once they do. This means setting clear expectations (like when you’re available and what types of meetings you prefer to have) and keeping them updated on the progress of the project.
A good mechanical estimating manager is able to identify the cost of various materials and labor to help those in charge make decisions on projects based on pricing data. They are able to work with multiple departments, contractors and subcontractors to obtain the necessary information to develop accurate estimates. They are also able to prepare a complete proposal in a timely manner.
An experienced mechanical estimating manager works with the project team to ensure that technical specifications are feasible and consistent with industry standards. They are also responsible for preparing formal job bids by studying blueprints, written specifications and conducting site visits. They also perform take-offs and estimating, creating cost matrices and identifying project labor, material and time requirements.
They are also required to maintain a detailed audit trail of the quantity survey. In addition, they support vendor/subcontractor pricing/bid solicitation and coordination as well as the distribution of plans and specifications to vendors/subcontractors.
Mechanical Estimating Managers are required to work with other departments within the company as well as outside clients. They are also responsible for establishing and maintaining a high standard of professionalism in the department and a culture that promotes open communication and respect for others.
They are required to have a minimum of a high school diploma and on-the-job training from a construction company or related field, along with extensive experience in the construction business. They should be able to read and interpret blueprints, write reports and communicate effectively. They must also have knowledge of computer software such as Microsoft Office and OST On Screen Take Off. They must also be able to meet deadlines and adhere to budgets.
Developing Relationships with Vendors
Developing vendor relationships should be a continuous process that strives to balance your business needs with those of your vendors. When those needs align, you have a mutually beneficial relationship. When those needs don’t align, it is best to choose a different vendor. You want to have a good understanding of why a vendor or supplier wants your business. That will help you select the right vendor to develop a strong partnership.
Vendor relationships are the foundation of any company. Vendors and suppliers provide you with the supplies, materials and services you need to run your business. They also help you achieve your sales and profit goals. If you have a good relationship with your vendors, it will save you money in the long run. You will have better access to a wider range of products and services and can negotiate discounts.
A good mechanical estimating manager can prepare complex cost estimates for competitive bids and negotiated proposals. He analyzes the estimates and makes sure that they are accurate. He confers with engineers, architects, subcontractors, contractors, and vendors on the adjustments that need to be made. He thoroughly researches previous data related to subcontracts and purchase orders and compiles the relevant reports. He also assists with field operational exposure through onsite project support.
In addition, he assembles and maintains historical database for projects by analyzing the proposal data. He also prepares material and other costs summary for quotes from vendors. He tracks value creation items from development through inclusion and documents them in the project documentation. He also participates in project procurement presentations.
Having a good relationship with your vendors can make or break your business. Misunderstandings can poison any relationship, so maintaining open communication is crucial. It is important to set expectations with your vendors from the start, including how often you expect them to communicate with you and how long it will take for them to provide you with information. This will avoid misunderstandings and frustration down the road. It is also important to build trust with your vendors, as this will encourage them to go above and beyond for you.
Developing Relationships with Other Departments
A Mechanical Estimating Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the estimating department. He implements technical estimating procedures and standards while overseeing the work of project estimators. He is also responsible for coordinating bid inputs from other departments. Additionally, he prepares budgets and estimates as well as detailed scopes of work for projects that lead to awarded construction contracts.
As a Mechanical Estimating Manager, you are also responsible for establishing processes to perform analysis of project requirements, plans and specifications in order to identify labor, material, equipment and service requirement costs. You may use a variety of analytical techniques, mathematical models and specialized estimating software tools to generate cost estimates. In addition, you may be required to support the project team in performing quantity surveying and preparing plans for distribution.
Develops relationships with internal and external vendors/subcontractors in the construction industry. Performs quantity survey of materials shown on plan drawings. Maintains an audit trail of changes in estimate quantities. Prepares a cost breakdown for each estimate. Presents estimates and participates in project procurement presentations. Coordinates feasibility studies on life-cycle costs of building systems. Establishes a historical database of construction costs and monitors pricing trends.
A good Mechanical Estimating Manager should be able to work in teams and have strong leadership skills. He should also be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. A thorough understanding of the engineering discipline is essential. He should have a solid background in Mechanical and Electrical estimating, preferably with previous experience in both competitive tendering and design & build projects. In addition to this, he should have excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks. He should also be proficient with a number of different computer programs. These include a range of Microsoft Office applications, Lens and Revit. In addition, he should have a high level of professionalism and be a self-motivated individual. He should be familiar with the latest design and engineering concepts and methodologies. It is important to have the ability to work with a diverse group of people and have an excellent attitude.