Zone 4 Estimator

Who We Are

Zone 4 is a nationwide leader in installation of advanced material handling systems, specializing in automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), multi-shuttle, and mini-load systems. Headquartered in Orange, CA, Zone 4 serves blue-chip clients across various industries, including retail, e-commerce, logistics, and grocery. With over 15 years of experience, the company has established itself as a go-to provider for automated warehouse logistics, helping businesses optimize their supply chain operations through innovative automation and robotic solutions. Zone 4 offers nationwide coverage, handling projects of any size or complexity, ensuring safe, efficient, and consistent service.

Role Purpose

The Electrical & Mechanical Estimator plays a critical role in supporting the company’s growth, profitability, and operational excellence by developing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for electrical and mechanical scopes of work. This position ensures that proposals reflect a complete understanding of project specifications, industry standards, labor requirements, material pricing, and risk considerations.

Acting as a key liaison between sales and operations, the role ensures each estimate aligns with company objectives, client expectations, and compliance requirements while maintaining high levels of accuracy, consistency, and attention to detail.

Ultimately, the Electrical & Mechanical Estimator supports the business by contributing to successful bid outcomes, strengthening client partnerships, and enabling the delivery of safe, efficient, and profitable projects.

Scope of Responsibility

  • Review opportunities (RFQ’s) and specify Zone 4’s services to meet customer requirements
  • Consult with the sales and suppliers to understand general cost driving components and arrive at the most cost-effective solution for our customers. Keeping in consideration and driving towards desired profit margins
  • Review and interpret data, specifications/drawings from customer inquiries and prepare bid packages in a timely manner
  • Prepare detailed material takeoffs (MTO) for equipment, labor, subcontractors, and related costs.
  • Develop cost models, labor hour calculations, and unit pricing based on industry standards and internal benchmarks.
  • Ensure all estimates reflect accurate material pricing, labor rates, overhead, and margin expectations.
  • Lead the preparation of competitive bids, RFQs, and RFP responses.
  • Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to solicit, review, and compare quotations.
  • Identify clarifications, exclusions, assumptions, and risk factors within the bid package.
  • Support the creation of proposal narratives, scope summaries, and pricing sheets.
  • Partner with Sales to support pre-sales strategy and customer engagement.
  • Work closely with Project Managers to transition awarded projects, confirm scope, and support kickoff activities.
  • Identify potential scope gaps, constructability challenges, and schedule impacts.
  • Ensure estimates comply with industry codes, safety standards, and project specifications.
  • Maintain organized estimate files, costing data, and historical project pricing archives.
  • Help drive sales by supporting the robotics and automation team
  • Interact with customers while developing product solutions and assisting in closing new business
  • Ability to perform to the highest ethical standards
  • Strong relationship building and communication skills
  • Knowledge of equipment, design, sizing, and selection
  • Ability to understand varying industry applications
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Functions as a team member and to get along with others
  • Reports for work on time as scheduled and ready to perform
  • Performs other similar or related duties as assigned, or as necessary, to accomplish the department’s objectives in an effective manner

Required Experience

  • 3–7 years of estimating experience in electrical, mechanical, or MEP Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing) environments.
  • Experience with commercial, industrial, or institutional construction projects.
  • Proven background using estimating software
  • Strong understanding of electrical systems (distribution, lighting, low voltage, controls).
  • Working knowledge of material handling systems (conveyors, sorters, cranes, Goods-to-Person, ASRS, etc.)
  • Strong financial acumen with ability to create pricing models and evaluate project profitability.

Core Responsibilities

  • Detail-oriented with strong attention to accuracy and quality
  • Analytical thinker with the ability to break down complex systems
  • Methodical and process-driven in approach and workflow
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
  • Highly dependable and consistent in meeting deadlines
  • Clear and effective communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Commercially minded with understanding of cost, margin, and financial impact
  • Collaborative team player who works well across departments
  • Calm under pressure, especially during tight bid cycles
  • Inquisitive and continuously seeking new knowledge and technical insight
  • Ethical, transparent, and trustworthy in all estimating practices
  • Organized with strong documentation discipline
  • Strong numerical reasoning and comfort with calculations
  • Proactive in identifying missing information, risks, and clarifications
  • Customer-oriented with a focus on value and relationship building

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and performance-based bonus plan
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401k match
  • PTO and paid holidays