Estimator

TRS Staffing Solutions; North Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

TRS Staffing Solutions' client, a growing manufacturing organization, seeks a Senior Estimator to develop detailed cost estimates for laser-cut, formed, fabricated, and assembled steel products. The role requires evaluating feasibility from drawings and specifications to produce accurate quotations for profitable growth.

The candidate will work with Sales, Engineering, Design and Operations, mentor junior estimators, and lead estimating projects while driving continuous process improvements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Construction Management or related field preferred.
• 4+ years estimating experience in steel fabrication or related manufacturing industries.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and technical drawings accurately.
• Experience developing project estimates from drawings, specifications and scope documents.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and specifications to determine manufacturing feasibility.
• Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Design and Production during the quoting process.
• Develop detailed cost estimates for laser cutting, forming, fabrication, welding, machining, assembly, packaging and shipping.
• Calculate material usage, weights and manufacturing costs using metric and standard conversions.
• Create and maintain BOMs, routers and estimating data in ERP and estimating systems.
• Lead estimating projects and mentor junior estimators.
• Analyze historical costing information to improve estimate accuracy.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Project Management

Analytical Thinking

Strong Communication

Customer Focus

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Manufacturing/Construction Management

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Microsoft Excel

Bluebeam/Foxit PDF markup

ERP systems

Job description

Our client is a growing and innovative manufacturing organization specializing in complex steel fabrication, laser processing, forming, and value-added manufacturing solutions. They are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to play a critical role in evaluating project opportunities, developing accurate cost estimates, and supporting strategic business decisions.

This position offers the opportunity to work closely with Sales, Engineering, Design, and Operations teams while serving as a technical leader within the estimating function.

Position Summary

The Senior Estimator is responsible for developing detailed cost estimates for laser-cut, formed, fabricated, and assembled steel products. This individual will evaluate project feasibility, analyze manufacturing requirements, determine production costs, and provide accurate quotations that support profitable business growth.

The role requires strong technical knowledge of fabrication processes, blueprint interpretation, manufacturing costing, and project leadership. The successful candidate will work independently while also mentoring junior team members and collaborating with multiple departments throughout the quoting process.

Key Responsibilities

• Review customer drawings, specifications, and project requirements to determine manufacturing feasibility.
• Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Design, and Production teams during the quoting process.
• Develop detailed cost estimates for laser cutting, forming, fabrication, welding, machining, assembly, packaging, and shipping.
• Calculate material usage, material weights, and manufacturing costs utilizing metric and standard unit conversions.
• Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), routers, and estimating data within ERP and estimating systems.
• Prepare "what-if" cost analysis scenarios to support pricing and operational decisions.
• Evaluate labor, material, subcontractor, tooling, and overhead costs.
• Maintain and update estimating databases, standards, and cost models.
• Analyze historical costing information to improve estimate accuracy and consistency.
• Lead estimating projects and ensure all deliverables are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior estimators.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to estimating processes and procedures.
• Assist with department development and process optimization efforts.
• Travel as needed to support business requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 4 years of estimating experience within steel fabrication, metal fabrication, structural steel, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including laser cutting, forming, welding, machining, and assembly.
• Experience developing project estimates from drawings, specifications, and scope documents.
• Ability to accurately interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments.

Preferred Experience

• Estimating steel fabrication or structural steel projects.
• Experience using ERP systems, estimating software, or manufacturing costing systems.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Microsoft Excel, and PDF markup software such as Bluebeam or Foxit.
• Experience creating and managing BOMs and manufacturing routers.
• Leadership experience or mentoring junior team members.
• Experience performing root cause analysis and implementing process improvements.

Core Competencies

• Manufacturing Cost Analysis
• Attention to Detail
• Project Management
• Analytical Thinking
• Customer Focus
• Strong Communication Skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, push, and pull as required.
• Ability to occasionally lift or carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to travel as needed for project or business support activities.
• Competitive Compensation Package
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Options
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Training and Development Programs
• Professional Certification Sponsorship
• Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
• Collaborative and Team-Oriented Culture

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an experienced estimator with a strong steel fabrication or manufacturing background who can confidently develop accurate project estimates, support strategic business decisions, mentor team members, and drive continuous improvement initiatives within a growing organization.