ABOUT US:
At American Metal Fabricators (AMF), we take pride in delivering high-quality custom metal products with precision, speed, and reliability. With decades of experience serving a wide range of industries, we specialize in everything from sheet metal work to complex fabrication projects. Our team thrives on craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. We believe in building lasting relationships—with our clients, our suppliers, and most importantly, our employees. If you're looking to be part of a hands-on, solutions-driven environment where your work truly matters, you'll find a home at AMF.
Job Summary
American Metal Fabricators is seeking an experienced Estimator / Project Manager to join our team in Gastonia, NC. This is a full-time, office-based position responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates, managing projects from quote through production, and serving as a key point of contact for customers and the shop floor.
The ideal candidate will have experience in metal fabrication estimating, be proficient in AutoCAD, and possess a strong understanding of metal thicknesses, tolerances, fabrication processes, and manufacturing methods. This role requires the ability to interpret drawings, perform material take-offs, estimate labor requirements, coordinate production details, and maintain strong customer relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
What You Will Do
- Review and interpret CAD files, blueprints, drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
- Prepare accurate and competitive project quotations based on material, labor, and production requirements.
- Perform material take-offs from customer drawings, CAD files, sketches, and samples.
- Estimate machine time, labor hours, and fabrication costs for manufacturing projects.
- Maintain proficiency in AutoCAD and utilize drawings to support estimating and project management functions.
- Apply knowledge of metal thicknesses, tolerances, forming, cutting, welding, and finishing processes when preparing estimates.
- Prepare and release production orders to the shop floor.
- Coordinate closely with the Shop Foreman and production team to answer questions, resolve issues, and monitor project status.
- Communicate directly with customers regarding quotations, project updates, specifications, and change requests.
- Manage change orders, project revisions, and estimate updates as required.
- Track design changes and adjust pricing and production requirements accordingly.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements while maintaining quality standards.
- Assist with inside sales inquiries, including walk-in, phone, and online customer requests.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 2 years of estimating experience, preferably within a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD required.
- Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes, including cutting, bending, welding, forming, and finishing.
- Knowledge of metal thicknesses, tolerances, material properties, and fabrication best practices.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
- Experience preparing material take-offs and estimating labor and production costs.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Join us as we build innovative solutions through skilled craftsmanship!
