HVAC Project Manager/ Estimator

HVAC Project Manager & Estimator (Design-Build / Retrofit)Licensed 313A | Transition Off the Tools | $80,000–$100,000About the Opportunity

This role is built for an experienced 313A HVAC professional who has spent 10+ years on the tools and is ready to take the next step — off the tools and into the office, without losing touch with real-world HVAC work.

Cardinal Services is a well-established, locally owned mechanical contractor in Windsor, specializing in commercial HVAC design-build and retrofit projects. As our volume of retrofit and engineered work continues to grow, were adding a hands-on technical expert to lead projects from estimate to close-out.

If you understand HVAC systems because youve installed, serviced, and troubleshot them, and now want to apply that knowledge to estimating, planning, and managing projects end-to-end, this is a rare and well-supported transition role.

Youll be trained on Cardinals systems and processes — but real retrofit experience and strong technical judgment are critical.

Whats In It For You:

• Salary: $80,000 – $100,000 (based on experience)
• Office-Focused Role: Minimal tools, maximum technical influence
• Design-Build Exposure: Be involved early, not just after drawings are done
• End-to-End Ownership: Estimate plan execute close
• Stable, Local Company: Long-tenured team, Windsor-based leadership
• Career Longevity: A sustainable path off the tools without losing relevance
• Training & Support: Structured onboarding into estimating and PM systems
• Varied Work: Commercial HVAC retrofits, upgrades, and engineered solutions

Your Role:

This is a hybrid Estimating + Project Management position, focused on commercial HVAC retrofit and design-build work.

Estimating & Pre-Construction (Primary Focus)

• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and site conditions
• Prepare accurate HVAC estimates for retrofit and design-build projects
• Determine labour, material, equipment, subcontractor, and timeline requirements
• Apply practical field knowledge to identify constructability issues early
• Support solution design for system replacements, upgrades, and retrofits
• Price change orders and scope adjustments accurately and confidently

Project Management (A–Z Responsibility)

• Manage projects from award through completion
• Develop project schedules, work plans, and resource allocations
• Coordinate crews, materials, suppliers, and subcontractors
• Attend site meetings and act as the primary technical point of contact
• Track job costing, budgets, purchase orders, invoicing, and profitability
• Monitor progress and prepare job forecasts and internal reports
• Ensure all work complies with codes, specs, and safety requirements
• Oversee close-out activities including O&M manuals and as-builts

Client & Team Collaboration:

• Work directly with clients to assess needs and propose HVAC solutions
• Communicate clearly with internal teams, field staff, and leadership
• Build long-term relationships through technical credibility and follow-through
• Support a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

What You Bring:

• 313A Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic license (required)
• 10+ years of hands-on HVAC experience (service and/or projects)
• Strong background in commercial HVAC systems, including:
• Retrofit work
• System replacements and upgrades
• Hydronics and mechanical building services
• Solid ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and engineering specs
• Practical understanding of materials, labour sequencing, and installation methods
• Interest in transitioning into a primarily office-based technical role
• Working knowledge of:
• Ontario Building Code
• ASHRAE, CSA, NFPA standards
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable with MS Office and job costing / project tracking tools
• Valid drivers license

We appreciate hearing from you and only those who have the proper credentials will be contacted.