Estimator

Senior Estimator - Steel Fabrication & Manufacturing

📍 Ladson, SC (relocation assistance available for those who need it)

🕒 Full-Time | Manufacturing | Project Leadership

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced Senior Estimator to join our manufacturing team and play a key role in developing accurate, competitive cost proposals for steel fabrication projects. This position is responsible for evaluating project requirements, analyzing manufacturing methods, and building comprehensive estimates that support profitable business decisions and successful project execution.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in steel fabrication, manufacturing processes, blueprint interpretation, and project coordination.

What You'll Do

✅ Develop detailed cost estimates for laser cutting, forming, welding, machining, fabrication, and assembly projects.

✅ Review engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to determine scope, feasibility, and production methods.

✅ Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Design, and Operations teams to prepare accurate quotations.

✅ Lead estimating activities for assigned projects and ensure proposal deadlines are met.

✅ Calculate material requirements, labor hours, production costs, freight, packaging, and other project expenses.

✅ Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings, and manufacturing documentation.

✅ Utilize ERP and estimating software systems to manage quote data and cost information.

✅ Perform "what-if" analyses and recommend cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.

✅ Track historical project performance and continuously improve estimating accuracy.

✅ Provide guidance and mentorship to junior estimators and support department development initiatives.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Construction Management, or a related field, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 4 years of estimating experience in steel fabrication, heavy manufacturing, or related industries
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including cutting, forming, welding, machining, and assembly
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications
• Experience preparing complex project estimates and customer quotations
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with JobBOSS or similar ERP/estimating software
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and/or SolidWorks
• Prior project leadership or mentoring experience
• Familiarity with manufacturing cost analysis and production planning

What Makes You Successful

• Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong mechanical aptitude and manufacturing knowledge
• Root cause analysis and problem-solving experience
• Team-oriented approach with the ability to work independently

Travel Requirements

• Occasional travel to customer, supplier, or manufacturing locations may be required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments
• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, bending, and climbing as needed
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with mechanical assistance used when necessary

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a significant impact within a growing manufacturing organization. You'll work alongside experienced professionals, lead challenging projects, and help drive operational success through accurate estimating and strategic planning.