At JH Kelly, we’re looking for a driven, detail-oriented Mechanical Piping Estimator to become part of our Industrial Operations Team. If you’re someone who thrives on solving complex challenges, delivering precise estimates with clarity, and connecting technical expertise to project success, this is your chance to make a real 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
Who We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a problem-solver who anticipates challenges, communicates clearly, and delivers accurate estimates that drive project success. Based in Longview, WA, you’ll work closely with project managers, supply chain teams, and stakeholders to shape winning bids for complex mechanical, piping, civil, and structural steel projects. If you’re organized, analytical, and ready to make an impact, this is your chance to shine.
What You’ll Do
As a Mechanical Piping Estimator, you’ll play a critical role in preparing and coordinating accurate, timely estimates for large-scale industrial projects. You’ll collaborate with bid teams, manage RFQ processes, and ensure seamless project turnovers while maintaining a keen eye on detail and efficiency.
Pay Range: $35–$62 per hour (DOE), FLSA non-exempt (overtime eligible).
Here’s a deeper dive into your responsibilities:
- Estimate Preparation & Coordination
- Deliver accurate, timely bids with clear technical clarifications and exclusions.
- Collaborate with the bid captain to organize bid breakdowns, define takeoff methods, and set up estimates for success.
- Review project scopes, specifications, and addenda, updating estimates and communicating changes to the bid team.
- Generate and track RFIs to clarify bid documents and ensure accuracy.
- Project Planning & Execution
- Participate in bid walks to identify means, methods, and potential risks.
- Develop man-loaded proposal schedules and identify pre-fabrication or value engineering opportunities.
- Prepare project execution plans when required and support project turnover by providing detailed cost breakdowns and phase code budgets.
- Review “issued for construction” drawings for revisions and estimate changes between IFB and IFC documents.
- Collaboration & Communication
- Coordinate with the Supply Chain team to secure pricing for materials and equipment.
- Prepare and distribute RFQ packages for subcontracted scopes of work.
- Act as a proactive liaison between estimating, project management, and other teams to align on priorities and deliverables.
- Lead or participate in project turnover meetings to ensure smooth handoffs.
- Process & Efficiency
- Maintain organized workflows and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Leverage tools like Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and Excel to streamline processes and ensure accuracy.
- Continuously improve estimating processes by incorporating feedback and lessons learned.
- Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other tasks or projects as assigned to support JH Kelly’s operational goals.
What You Bring
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years estimating industrial projects, including mechanical, piping, civil, and structural steel. Conceptual estimating experience is a plus.
- Skills: Strong organizational and analytical skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and intermediate Excel capabilities. Familiarity with industry building codes is essential.
- Mindset: Detail-oriented, proactive, and collaborative, with a commitment to meeting deadlines error-free. You’re a self-starter who builds trust through clear communication and follow-through.
- Education: Degree in Construction Management, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent experience/education.
- Preferred: Knowledge of project management, construction contracts, QA/QC, or safety principles.
Physical Requirements
This role involves transitioning between office and construction field settings. In the office, you’ll sit for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks like typing, and communicate via phone. In the field, you’ll stand, walk on uneven terrain, climb stairs, kneel, crouch, crawl, and occasionally lift up to 40 pounds. Good vision and hearing are needed for reading plans, inspecting work, 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). Travel between job sites and occasional work outside regular hours may be required. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.
Pay Range: $35–$62 per hour (DOE), FLSA non-exempt (overtime eligible).
Benefits Package
- 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.
Why JH Kelly?
At JH Kelly, you’re joining a family-oriented team with a legacy of excellence and a passion for innovation. Based in Longview, you’ll support our Industrial operations and collaborate with our Senior Management Team on high-impact projects.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter. Tell us how you’ve led teams, tackled challenges, and driven results in the past.
