Summary
The Estimator is responsible for managing the initial phase of the project lifecycle by providing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for structural steel fabrication and erection projects. This role requires the ability to quantify materials (take-offs), calculate labor hours, and solicit pricing from suppliers and subcontractors. The Estimator works closely with the Sales, Project Management, and Production teams to ensure that bids are comprehensive, profitable, and aligned with George Steel’s fabrication capabilities and AISC standards. This role operates in a fast-moving bid environment, regularly managing one to three concurrent bids per week across projects ranging from $1M to $15M in value.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management deems necessary.
- Thoroughly examine architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and addenda to determine the full scope of work.
- Perform detailed quantity take-offs of structural steel, plates, and miscellaneous metals using estimating software (e.g., Tekla PowerFab & Bluebeam).
- Estimate man-hours required for fabrication (cutting, fitting, welding, painting) and erection based on project complexity and shop capacity.
- Solicit competitive quotes from outside suppliers and subcontractors, including erection contractors, joist & deck suppliers, miscellaneous metals fabricators, steel detailers, galvanizers, freight carriers, and specialty coating applicators.
- Evaluate and compare vendor quotes for scope completeness, pricing accuracy, and alignment with project specifications before incorporating them into the final bid.
- Compile all cost data into a formal proposal, ensuring all "Scope of Work" inclusions and exclusions are clearly defined to protect the company from scope creep.
- Identify potential project risks, such as aggressive schedules or complex geometries, and account for them in the pricing strategy.
- Upon project award, collaborate with Project Managers to transition the estimate into a working budget, highlighting key assumptions made during the bid phase.
- Monitor fluctuations in steel material pricing and availability to ensure bids remain competitive and profitable.
- Assist the sales team in reviewing bids with general contractors or owners to explain George Steel’s value proposition and clarify technical details with occasional post-bid review site visits.
Core Competencies
The following competencies are essential for success in the Estimator role and support the effective execution of daily responsibilities:
- Mathematical Precision: Exceptional ability to calculate weights, areas, and volumes with zero margin for error.
- Blueprint Fluency: Advanced ability to read and interpret complex structural and architectural drawings.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to visualize the fabrication and erection process from 2D drawings to accurately predict labor needs.
- Time Management: Must be able to meet strict bid deadlines while managing multiple invitations to bid simultaneously.
- Software Proficiency: Strong skills in Microsoft Excel and industry-specific estimating or modeling software.
- Commercial Awareness: Understanding of contract language, insurance requirements, and the competitive landscape in the Midwest (most commonly – Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana) steel market.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be highly analytical and possess a deep understanding of the structural steel industry. This position balances technical accuracy with the communication skills necessary to negotiate with vendors and coordinate with internal teams. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education / Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
- 3–5 years of experience in structural steel fabrication, estimating, detailing, or related manufacturing industry.
- Familiarity with AISC and AWS standards.
- Experience with Tekla PowerFab or similar ERP/Estimating software is highly desirable.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and fabrication-related data reporting.
Work Environment
This position primarily functions in a professional office setting but requires regular interaction with the fabrication shop. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet estimating deadlines. While the office is climate-controlled, employees will occasionally be exposed to the shop-floor environment, which includes loud machinery, overhead cranes, and varying temperatures. : When entering production areas, employees must adhere to all safety protocols, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hearing protection and safety glasses. Reasonable accommodation is available for individuals with disabilities.
Physical Demands
This position involves prolonged periods of sitting and computer work, interspersed with standing and occasional lifting of drawing sets.
EEO Statement
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Pay: $50,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you willing to undergo a background check and drug screening as a condition of employment?
- Will you now, or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status)?
- Do you have at least 3 to 5 years of experience in the structural steel industry, including performing detailed quantity take-offs and labor hour calculations for projects valued over $1M?
Work Location: In person
