What are the responsibilities and job description for the Structural Steel Estimator position at CalTek Staffing, Inc.?
Seeking an experienced Estimator with a strong background in structural steel, ornamental metals, miscellaneous metals, and custom fabrication. This role is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive bids while coordinating closely with operations, detailing, and project management teams.
The ideal candidate understands fabrication and erection workflows, can interpret complex plans and specifications, and is comfortable working in a fast-paced, production-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for:
- Structural steel
- Miscellaneous metals (stairs, rails, ladders, etc.)
- Ornamental/custom fabricated metal work
- Perform quantity takeoffs using Bluebeam Revu
- Analyze bid documents, identify scope gaps, and manage RFIs
- Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing
- Build estimates using Tekla PowerFab
- Coordinate with detailing, shop, and field teams to validate assumptions
- Track historical cost data and continuously improve estimating accuracy
- Participate in bid reviews and handoff meetings with operations
Required Qualifications
- 3–7 years of estimating experience in:
- Structural steel fabrication and erection
- Miscellaneous metals
- Custom fabrication
- Proficient in Tekla PowerFab and Bluebeam Revu
- Strong ability to read and interpret structural and architectural drawings
- Working knowledge of fabrication processes, materials, and install methods
- Understanding of industry standards (AISC, AWS, etc.)
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Southern California market
- Background in both shop fabrication and field erection costs
- Familiarity with estimating/model-based workflows (Tekla Structures a plus)
- Experience with conceptual estimating and design-assist projects
Direct Hire: $75-$90K
CalTek is a manufacturing, technical, engineering and IT consulting firm that has expanded its business operations from its headquarters in San Diego, throughout all of California and into Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Texas and Washington. CalTek has staffed positions with global companies such as Siemens, Parsons, and Illumina but also works with startups with 10 employees.
Salary : $75,000 - $90,000