MEP Estimator – Data Center Construction

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• 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.

Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in estimating mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and low-voltage systems for large-scale projects, with a strong focus on cost optimization and data analysis. Proficient in utilizing estimating software and collaborating effectively with contractors and trade partners.