Traveling MEP Estimator - Commercial Disaster Restoration

At Kustom, we bring order to chaos after disaster strikes - restoring property, stability, and peace of mind for businesses and families across the country. Our Field and Operations teams are where recovery actually happens. This is the work that turns plans into action, chaos into progress, and damaged spaces back into places people can live and work again. When fires, floods, storms, and other emergencies disrupt lives and businesses, our teams step in with urgency, skill, and care. Position Overview The Commercial MEP Estimator plays a critical role at Kustom, this position involves accurately assessing and estimating costs for restoration work related to damage from water, fire, mold, or other disasters in commercial buildings. This role will leverage expertise in complex building systems and related infrastructure to develop precise bids that enable rapid response and recovery for our clients. Guided by our core values, the Commercial MEP Estimator is expected to deliver speed by providing timely, accurate estimates that support our fast-paced restoration timelines and help clients return to normal operations as quickly as possible; demonstrate excellence through meticulous attention to detail, technical precision, and high-quality cost projections that reflect best-in-class practices; and embody compassion by understanding the urgency and emotional impact of property loss on business owners and occupants, approaching every estimate with empathy, clear communication, and a commitment to restoring both buildings and peace of mind. With a focus on commercial estimating, the role requires a blend of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and collaboration to support preconstruction, project transitions, and ongoing operations. Travel is expected up to 50% of the time to job sites, client meetings, and vendor consultations. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Preconstruction
Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope and required deliverables for commercial restoration projects involving complex building systems.
Prepare detailed estimates, including labor, material, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions.
Develop conceptual and design/build budgets based on limited information, using engineering judgment and experience in restoration contexts.
Perform detailed takeoffs for ductwork, piping, equipment selections, plumbing fixtures, and related systems impacted by damage.
Analyze systems for constructability, potential value engineering options, and cost savings opportunities in restoration scenarios.
Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors to obtain pricing and evaluate proposals for restoration-specific needs.
Generate final estimate packages, including clarifications, assumptions, alternates, and scope narratives tailored to commercial restoration work. Leadership, Collaboration & Business Development
Work closely with project managers, field supervisors, and engineering partners during preconstruction to align restoration strategies.
Support business development and sales by providing early-stage pricing, system options, and budget guidance for potential restoration contracts.
Represent the company in meetings with clients, engineers, and general contractors to discuss restoration estimates and scopes. Project Transition & Execution Support
Participate in project handoff meetings with operations teams to ensure seamless transition from estimate to execution.
Assist with system design decisions, equipment selections, and value-engineering options during procurement and early project setup. Competencies/Skills
Technical Proficiency in Complex Building Systems - Strong proficiency in mechanical engineering principles, HVAC systems, plumbing estimating, and ductwork for commercial applications
Blueprint & Specification Interpretation - Ability to read and interpret mechanical and plumbing drawings, specifications, and engineering documents
Estimating Software Expertise - Proficiency with estimating software for accurate takeoffs and budgeting
Communication Skills - Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present information clearly to stakeholders
Organizational & Time Management Abilities - Highly organized, detail-driven, and able to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
Independence & Ownership - Proven ability to work independently and take ownership of results
Design/Build & Customer-Facing Experience - Familiarity with design/build workflows and customer-facing budgeting in restoration or construction environments
Process Improvement & Department Development - Ability to bring structure and best practices to an evolving estimating department Qualifications
7+ years of commercial estimating experience, preferably in restoration or contracting
Demonstrated experience with conceptual and design/build estimating for complex building systems
Experience with large-scale mechanical systems in a commercial setting
Ability to travel up to 50% required
Leadership experience or desire to grow into a management role, including mentoring junior estimators Physical Requirements & Work Conditions
Mix of office-based work and field visits to commercial job sites across regions for assessments and meetings
Exposure to restoration sites with varying weather conditions; appropriate safety gear and training provided
Ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods during office work, meetings, and computer-based tasks
Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds and ability to stand or walk for extended periods during site evaluations
Prolonged use of computers, phones, video conferencing tools, and other standard office technology for daily work Why Join Kustom
Culture That Inspires - Teamwork integrity and a growth mindset fuel how we show up for each other and for the customers who rely on us
Total Rewards Package - Competitive weekly pay with a comprehensive benefits package including health dental vision 401(k) PTO and more
Career Growth Opportunities - Training mentorship and the chance to enhance your career and skills Founded in 1968 Kustom has spent decades earning a stellar reputation as a nationally acclaimed industry-leading property restoration firm. We offer unparalleled full-service restoration and emergency services to commercial industrial and residential clients. Our legacy is built on innovative thinking meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to exceptional service ensuring that life and business continue smoothly for our clients nationwide. At Kustom we unite experts who are driving the industry forward delivering positive life-changing outcomes for both commercial and residential customers. We do more than rebuild - we build trust. If you're ready to make an impact with one of the largest privately held restoration companies in North America we'd like to meet you. Join our team and become part of our ongoing success story! Kustom provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, genetic information, service in the military, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Subject to Federal, State, and Local laws, regulations, and/or ordinances, applicants must be able to pass pre-employment drug screening and background check. Compensation is based on geographic location, demonstrated job related skills, knowledge, experience, education, certifications, etc. This job description is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Activities, duties, and/or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.