Assistant Estimator

Hudson Scenic Studios is a creative fabrication partner for live entertainment, themed environments, and immersive experiences, combining world-class craftsmanship with engineering innovation to transform ambitious ideas into extraordinary realities.

OPPORTUNITY BRIEF

Hudson Scenic Studios seeks a detail-oriented and motivated Assistant Estimator with an interest in theatrical scenery, themed entertainment, immersive activations, or complex custom fabrication to support the development of project budgets, estimates, and proposals. Working under the guidance of Estimating team, this role assists in reviewing project drawings and specifications, gathering pricing information, researching materials and vendors, and maintaining estimating records.

Reporting to the Director of Project Management, the Assistant Estimator collaborates with Estimating, Project Management and Technical Design teams to help ensure projects are accurately priced and documented. This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop estimating expertise while gaining exposure to a wide range of fabrication methods, production processes, and project delivery strategies that support Hudson’s continued growth and success.

To learn more about our work, please visit HudsonScenic.com.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in preparing budgets, cost estimates, and detailed proposals for scenic construction projects.

• Review project drawings, specifications, and design information to support estimating activities.

• Research material costs, labor requirements, vendor pricing, and historical project data.

• Request, track, and organize vendor and subcontractor quotations.

• Assist with identifying potential technical design and construction challenges, risks, and cost impacts.

• Support development of material takeoffs and quantity calculations.

• Collaborate with Technical Design, Scenic Artists, Automation, Set Electrics, Project Management teams to gather information for estimates.

• Maintain project records, estimating databases, and historical cost information.

• Help evaluate fabrication methods and material options to support budget and design objectives.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating processes and documentation.

MUST-HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree (BS, BA, or BFA) in Theatre Design and Technology, Themed Entertainment Design or Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field that combines technical, creative, and fabrication disciplines; or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

• 1-3 years of professional experience in estimating, project coordination, construction, fabrication, manufacturing, or related industries. Internship or apprenticeship experience is highly valued.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint) for project communication and documentation.

• Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or similar technical software.

• Basic understanding of construction and fabrication processes, including carpentry, metal fabrication, finishing, assembly, and CNC manufacturing.

• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and production documentation.

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with a high degree of attention to detail.

• Excellent organizational, time management, and prioritization skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills and a willingness to learn from experienced team members.

• Collaborative, proactive, and team-oriented approach with the ability to build productive working relationships across departments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Internship, apprenticeship, academic, or hands-on experience in scenic construction, themed entertainment, architecture, fabrication, manufacturing, construction, or a related field.

• Experience with estimating software, ERP systems, Bluebeam, Smartsheet, TeamGantt, MS Project, or similar project management tools.

• Prior exposure to one of Hudson's trades, including scenic carpentry, CNC manufacturing, metal fabrication, welding, lighting and electric, automation and motion control, high-performance coatings, faux finishing, and/or scenic painting.

• Familiarity with reading architectural, engineering, or entertainment-industry drawings.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

This is a full-time exempt position with an annual salary of $65,000 - $70,000, based on experience, knowledge, and skills.

Hudson’s benefits package includes:

• 10 paid holidays.

• 6 personal/sick days.

Following 90 days of employment:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Supplemental short- and long-term disability coverage.

• 10 vacation days.

Following 6 months of employment:

• Participation in Hudson’s 401(k) plan with a generous employer match.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Hudson Scenic Studios believes extraordinary work happens when talented people are given the tools, trust, and environment to succeed. We bring together people with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences because we know this is essential to creatively solving problems that have never been solved before.

As an equal opportunity employer, Hudson Scenic Studios is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where great ideas can become extraordinary experiences. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.