Estimator

POSITION SUMMARY

The Estimator is responsible for supporting the estimating and bid preparation process for Capitol Engineering fabrication projects. This role evaluates drawings, specifications, and other bid documents to prepare accurate cost estimates that support profitable project acquisition.

The Estimator works closely with project managers, detailing, purchasing, and production to ensure estimates reflect realistic fabrication methods, material costs, labor productivity, and schedule considerations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Estimating & Bid Preparation

•       Review architectural, structural, and fabrication drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements.

•       Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for structural steel, platework, piping, miscellaneous metals, and related components.

•       Develop accurate cost estimates including material, labor, subcontractors, equipment, and freight and outside services.

•       Solicit and evaluate quotes from suppliers and subcontractors.

•       Prepare and compile bid packages, proposals, and clarifications.

•       Participate in bid reviews with the Senior Manager – Sales prior to submission.

Cross-Department Coordination

•       Work closely with project managers to ensure smooth handoff of awarded projects.

•       Provide clarifications and estimate breakdowns during project kickoff.

•       Support change order pricing and cost analysis when needed.

•       Coordinate with purchasing on major material pricing trends and supplier relationships.

Process Improvement & Leadership

•       Help develop and maintain estimating standards, templates, and historical cost databases.

•       Support senior estimators and contribute to shared takeoffs, scope interpretation, and cost analysis as needed.

•       Improve estimating accuracy through post-project cost reviews and lessons learned.

•       Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the sales and estimating department.

Performance Expectations

•       Produce accurate and competitive estimates aligned with company profitability goals.

•       Maintain >35% bid hit rates while protecting margin.

•       Ensure thorough scope coverage and minimize post-award surprises.

•       Contribute to a collaborative environment between estimating, sales, project management, and production.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

•       Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering Technology, or related field; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

•       Minimum 2–3 years of estimating experience in structural steel fabrication, heavy industrial construction, or related manufacturing environment.

•       Demonstrated ability to perform detailed quantity takeoffs from structural, architectural, and fabrication drawings.

•       Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documents.

•       Strong working knowledge of material pricing, labor productivity, and fabrication cost drivers.

•       Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook) and estimating or takeoff software.

•       Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously.

Preferred

•       Experience estimating structural steel, platework, piping, or miscellaneous metals for industrial or commercial projects.

•       Familiarity with fabrication processes including CNC cutting, welding, fitting, and surface preparation.

•       Experience with ERP or project management systems used in a fabrication environment.

•       Interest in growing into a lead estimating role with increased responsibility over time.

•       Understanding of freight logistics, subcontractor scope, and outside service pricing.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position operates primarily in an office environment with occasional visits to the shop floor and project sites. The following conditions are representative of those encountered in this role:

Physical Requirements

•       Primarily sedentary work with extended periods at a desk or computer workstation.

•       Occasional movement through the fabrication/shop area when reviewing scope or project requirements.

•       Occasional lifting of documents, binders, or materials up to 25 lbs.

•       Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hard hat, and steel-toed footwear when present on the shop floor.

Environmental Conditions

•       Office work is performed in a standard climate-controlled environment.

•       Shop floor and site visits will expose the employee to a manufacturing environment including noise, heat, dust, and heavy equipment operation.

•       All applicable safety protocols and PPE requirements must be followed when working in or near the fabrication area.

Schedule & Environment

•       Standard Monday through Friday schedule during regular facility operating hours; occasional flexibility may be required to meet bid deadlines.

This is an on-site position. Remote work is not applicable to the essential functions of this role.