Lead Mechanical Estimator - Data Centre Projects

About the Role

We are partnering with a specialist engineering and offsite fabrication firm renowned for delivering innovative mechanical and electrical solutions across the UK, Ireland, and Europe. As they continue expanding, they seek a Lead Mechanical Estimator based in Dundalk to play a pivotal role in managing complex MEP projects.

The company has an outstanding reputation for producing custom prefabricated solutions such as plant rooms, mechanical systems, and energy infrastructure, embracing cutting-edge construction techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of comprehensive mechanical estimates for commercial, industrial, and data centre projects.
• Examine tender documentation, specifications, drawings, and technical data to prepare precise cost plans.
• Perform mechanical take-offs using drawings, schematics, and 3D design models.
• Develop detailed pricing proposals encompassing materials, labour, equipment, and subcontractor expenses.
• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to secure competitive and accurate quotes.
• Collaborate with design, procurement, and contracts teams to deliver commercially feasible solutions.
• Contribute to tender evaluations, bid or no-bid decisions, and strategy formulation.
• Participate in client meetings and assist the commercial team during tender stages.
• Facilitate the handover process to delivery teams, clearly communicating budgets and assumptions.
• Engage in post-project reviews to support continuous commercial improvements.

Required Skills and Experience

• Educational background in Mechanical Engineering, Building Services, Quantity Surveying, Cost Engineering, or related fields.
• Extensive experience in mechanical estimating, cost engineering, or a similar commercial capacity.
• Deep knowledge of mechanical building services, including HVAC, pipework, plant rooms, and related systems.
• Proven ability to price complex mechanical projects from initial enquiries through to tender submissions.
• Competence in interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and engineering documentation.
• Experience with commercial, industrial, data centre, or offsite fabrication projects is advantageous.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing estimates and facilitating successful tender submissions.
• Strong commercial insight combined with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to foster relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Mentoring or supporting junior estimators is desirable.
• Proactive with strong ownership of workload and commitment to meeting deadlines.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work with a rapidly growing specialist engineering company.
• A leadership role within the estimating department, granting considerable responsibility and influence.
• Exposure to technically sophisticated MEP projects across multiple regions.
• Prospects for career advancement within a growing organisation.
• A collaborative environment with skilled engineering, commercial, and project teams.