Estimator

Mistral Architectural Metal + Glass, Inc.; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Mistral Architectural Metal + Glass, Inc. is seeking an experienced Estimator to prepare cost estimates for commercial glazing and architectural metal projects.

You will analyze drawings and specifications, perform takeoffs, calculate labor/material costs, and coordinate with vendors to secure profitable bids. The role requires strong technical knowledge of glazing systems and metals, proficiency with estimating software, and excellent communication to interface with contractors and architects.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of estimating experience in commercial glass, glazing, and architectural metals.
• Proven track record in estimating and winning profitable glass/metal projects.
• Ability to read and interpret complex architectural blueprints and specifications.
• Strong knowledge of glazing systems (curtain wall, window wall, storefront, structural glass) and architectural metals.
• Proficiency with industry-standard takeoff software and MS Excel.

Responsibilities

• Analyze drawings, specs, and documents to determine scope of work.
• Perform quantity takeoffs for glass, glazing systems, and architectural metals.
• Calculate costs for labor, materials, equipment, fabrication, and overhead.
• Coordinate with vendors, fabricators, and subcontractors for pricing.
• Prepare and submit clear, competitive bid proposals and scope letters.
• Meet bid deadlines while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Identify value engineering opportunities without compromising design.
• Maintain relationships with general contractors, architects, vendors, and clients.
• Attend pre-bid meetings, site walks, and post-bid reviews.
• Collaborate with project management and field teams to ensure smooth transition to execution.
• Maintain database of supplier pricing, labor rates, and bid data.
• Assess project risks and scope gaps during bidding to troubleshoot installation issues.
• Manage multiple bid packages in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

Estimating experience

Blueprint interpretation

Communication

Time management

Vendor negotiation

Tools

Bluebeam Revu

PlanSwift

Togal.AI

CAD

Excel

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimator who is highly knowledgeable in METAL AND GLASS to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate, timely, and comprehensive cost estimates for commercial glazing and architectural metal projects. The successful applicant will have a deep understanding of trade-specific materials, labor, and fabrication processes, and possess a strong ability to analyze blueprints and specifications to secure profitable project awards.

Responsibilities

• Comprehensive Scope Analysis: Analyze architectural drawings, specifications, and project documents to thoroughly determine the scope of work.
• Accurate Takeoffs: Perform precise digital and manual quantity takeoffs for glass, glazing systems, and architectural metals (including storefronts, curtain walls, canopies, railings, and interior glass).
• Cost Calculation: Calculate comprehensive costs for labor, materials, equipment, fabrication, and overhead to ensure profitable bidding.
• Vendor Coordination: Request, review, and negotiate pricing from suppliers, fabricators, and subcontractors, ensuring competitive and accurate material costs.
• Bid Preparation: Prepare and submit clear, competitive, and detailed bid proposals and scope letters.
• Deadline Management: Ability to set and meet strict bid deadlines while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy.
• Value Engineering: Identify opportunities to provide cost-effective alternatives and innovative solutions without compromising quality or design intent.
• Client Communication: Maintain strong relationships with general contractors, architects, vendors, and clients, including clarifying specific requirements for each project.
• Meeting Attendance: Attend pre-bid meetings, site walkthroughs, and post-bid scope review meetings.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Collaborate seamlessly with the Project Management and field teams to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to project execution.
• Data Management: Maintain and update a database of supplier pricing, labor rates, and historical bid data.
• Risk Analysis: Assess and mitigate potential project risks, identify scope gaps, and troubleshoot potential installation issues during the bidding phase.
• Multi-Tasking: Efficiently manage multiple bid packages and estimates simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• Trade Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of estimating experience specifically within the commercial glass, glazing, and architectural metal trade.
• Proven Track Record: Demonstrated history of successfully estimating and winning profitable glass and metal projects.
• Blueprint Proficiency: Exceptional ability to seamlessly read, navigate, and deeply understand complex architectural blueprints, structural drawings, and specifications.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong technical background in glazing systems (curtain wall, window wall, storefront, structural glass) and architectural metals.
• Software Proficiency: Highly proficient with industry-standard estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, Togal.AI, etc.).
• Computer Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically with advanced data manipulation skills in Excel. CAD knowledge is a strong plus.
• Mathematical & Analytical Skills: Excellent quantitative and problem-solving skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills for precise internal and client-facing correspondence.
• Industry Standards: Basic Familiarity with industry building codes, fenestration standards, and specific manufacturer guidelines.
• Contract Familiarity: High degree of familiarity with bid documentation, scope sheets, and standard contract terms.
• Time Management: Exceptional organizational skills and a high stress tolerance to consistently handle strict hard-bid deadlines.