At JH Kelly, we’re hiring an experienced Mechanical Construction Estimator to lead the preparation of detailed, competitive estimates for major commercial mechanical construction projects throughout the Treasure Valley. This role goes beyond developing takeoffs and pricing; it is intended for a technically strong, highly organized professional who works collaboratively with project managers, engineers, and craft leadership to help position our company for success. We are seeking an individual who values accuracy, accountability, and understands the complexities of plumbing and process piping systems. If you are a disciplined problem-solver, this position offers a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting professional impact.
About Us
Celebrating over a century of excellence, JH Kelly is a fourth-generation, family-owned construction powerhouse known for tackling complex commercial and heavy industrial projects. With offices in Vancouver, Longview, Seattle, Bellingham, WA, and Milwaukie, OR, we’re an industry leader fueled by an award-winning team committed to safety, quality, and a dynamic, tight-knit culture. Learn more about our story at www.jhkelly.com
Salary range: $95,000–$130,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications. (FLSA Exempt)
- Comprehensive Medical/Vision/Rx – Dental/Ortho Coverage: JH Kelly pays 87.5% of total premiums.
- Paid Vacation and Holidays: Generous PTO model to support work-life balance.
- 401K: 50% company match on the first 6% of employee contributions.
- Life Insurance, AD&D, STD & LTD: Paid 100% by JH Kelly.
- Annual Performance Bonuses: Opportunity for additional compensation based on performance.
- Profit Sharing: Participate in JH Kelly’s profit-sharing program. Averaging 9% of total compensation for the past 10 years.
Here’s a deeper dive into your responsibilities:
Estimate & Bid Preparation
Procurement & Vendor Coordination
Project Turnover & Cost Analysis
- Work closely with the Project Manager for the cost breakdown of the estimate to generate unit/hour, material, and subcontractor analysis for project turnover.
- Lead and/or participate in Project Turnover Meetings.
- Allocate the budget per Phase Code structure.
- Review and estimate changes between IFB and IFC documents.
- Review the ‘issued for construction’ drawings for revisions.
- Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned.
What You Bring
- Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of experience estimating construction work, mechanical, civil, and/or structural steel. Preferred: Conceptual estimating experience. Preferred: Knowledge of Project Management, Construction Contracts, QA/QC, and Safety.
- Education: Degree in Construction Management, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent work experience.
- Required Skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and Bluebeam; intermediate Excel skills.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Commitment to meeting estimating deadlines on time and error-free.
- Ability to proactively build and cultivate relationships.
- Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with multiple tasks and projects at hand.
- Mindset: Organized, proactive, and able to thrive under pressure. A self-starter who builds relationships and takes initiative.
Physical Requirements
This role requires transitioning between office and construction field settings. You’ll sit for extended periods in the office and perform repetitive tasks like typing and using a mouse. In the field, you’ll stand and walk on uneven terrain, climb stairs, kneel, crouch, crawl to inspect tight spaces, and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds. Good vision and hearing are essential for reading plans and on-site communication. You’ll work outdoors in various weather conditions, adhere to site-specific dress codes, and wear PPE (hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots). Flexibility to travel and work outside regular hours is required. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.