Estimator

Conrad Industries, Inc.; Morgan City (LA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Conrad Industries, Inc. is located in Morgan City, Louisiana, seeking an Estimator to prepare comprehensive cost estimates and manage the bid preparation process. The role demands 2-5 years of experience in estimating or project management within the marine or heavy industrial construction sectors. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel and AutoCAD. The position offers opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of estimating, engineering, or project management experience in marine or industrial construction.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Prepare comprehensive cost estimates and develop proposals.
• Review bid documents for technical and commercial issues.
• Maintain organized bid files and update them with actual costs.
• Collaborate with Sales and Project Management throughout the proposal development.

Skills

Estimating techniques

Understanding of ship construction methods

Cross-functional teamwork

Analytical skills

Effective communication skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

2 – 5 years of estimating, engineering, or project management experience

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Estimate Development & Bid Preparation

• Prepare comprehensive cost estimates using historical data, labor standards, material pricing, and subcontractor inputs.
• Develop estimates for new construction and project change order work.
• Coordinate subcontractor and vendor pricing for labor, materials, and equipment.
• Contribute to the development of comprehensive proposal packages, including cost estimation, proposal letter, and required submittals in accordance with the Request for Proposal (RFP) specifications.
• Ensure all bids are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.

Scope Review & Risk Assessment

• Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents for technical, contractual, and commercial issues.
• Identify scope gaps, assumptions, exclusions, and potential risks.
• Communicate concerns and recommendations to Sales, Project Management, and Estimating leadership.

Bid Reviews & Internal Coordination

• Participate and lead in formal bid reviews prior to submission.
• Support management with pricing rationale, assumptions, and risk drivers.
• Collaborate with Sales during proposal development and clarification phases.
• Support Project Management with pricing for change orders and scope adjustments.

Estimating Data & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain organized bid files with sufficient cost history to support future estimates.
• Update estimating files with actual costs and document variances for continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities to improve estimating methods, tools, data accuracy, and processes.

Vendor & Subcontractor Engagement

• Develop and maintain relationships with key vendors and subcontractors.
• Solicit competitive pricing and negotiate favorable terms when appropriate.
• Evaluate vendor performance and pricing reliability over time.

Skills and Abilities

• Estimating techniques to include labor hour development, weight takeoffs, material takeoffs, and subcontract pricing.
• Understanding of ship construction methods, sequencing, build strategies, and ship systems.
• Familiarity with United States Coast Guard (USCG), American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), International Maritime Organization (IMO), and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with members of Sales, Project Management, Engineering, and Operations.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to details.
• Ability to prioritize workload to meet deadlines in a fast‑paced, deadline driven environment.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2 – 5 years of estimating, engineering, or project management experience in the marine, shipbuilding, or heavy industrial construction environment required; 5 – 10 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.
• AutoCAD experience a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including frequent use of pivot tables, and a good working knowledge of Microsoft Word required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.