Estimator/Planner

James Fisher Technologies; Loveland (CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

James Fisher Technologies is seeking a Shop Estimator in Loveland, CO to prepare accurate cost estimates for nuclear-related fabrication and welding projects. You will work with engineering, production, quality, and supply chain teams to reflect technical requirements and production capabilities, ensuring compliance with ASME and NQA-1 standards.

The role emphasizes labor-hour estimation, material requirements, and subcontracted services, with a focus on bid support, contract handoffs, and

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, engineering, welding technology, or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in fabrication and welding estimating, preferably in a nuclear, aerospace, or other highly regulated industry.
• Hands-on shop experience in welding or fabrication strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including welding, machining, forming, and assembly.
• Familiarity with nuclear codes and standards such as ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (Section III and/or VIII), NQA-1, and nuclear material traceability practices.

Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, and codes/standards to determine project scope and requirements
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for nuclear-related fabrication, machining, and welding work, including labor hours by discipline and skill level, material requirements, traceability, and outside services
• Identify technical, schedule, and compliance risks and incorporate them into pricing strategies
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production to validate manufacturability and routing assumptions
• Work with Supply Chain to obtain vendor quotes for raw materials and subcontracted services
• Support bid reviews, management proposal reviews, and customer clarification meetings
• Participate in contract handoff meetings to ensure smooth transition from estimating to production
• Maintain historical cost data and estimating tools for continuous improvement
• Ensure all estimating activities align with company quality assurance and nuclear compliance programs

Skills

Analytical skills

Labor hour estimation

Estimating software

Communication

Bid management

Education

Degree in manufacturing/engineering/welding technology

Tools

Estimating software

ERP/MRP systems

Microsoft Excel

Job description

ABOUT JFT:

James Fisher Technologies (JFT) is a reputable provider of remote solutions, specialty engineering, and technical services for applications within hazardous environments or with high integrity requirements. As a ground-breaking and rapidly expanding company, our highly trained staff and enduring heritage enable us to provide solutions to the most demanding operational and technical challenges faced by our customers. Our goal is to recruit and retain the finest staff. Everyone at JFT has the chance to forge their own career in an environment that values initiative, persistence, respect, curiosity, and passion.

WORKING HOURS

At JFT, we work a Monday–Friday 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off, providing the opportunity to recharge, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and return refreshed and energized.

FUNCTION

The Shop Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for fabrication and welding projects. This role works closely with engineering, production, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure all estimates reflect technical requirements, compliance standards, and realistic production capabilities. This position plays a critical role in supporting business development, contract review, and successful project execution in a highly regulated manufacturing environment.

The anticipated closing date for this posting is 11/15/2026 and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

REPORTING TO

Production Manager

Duties & Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, and codes/standards to determine project scope and requirements
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for nuclear-related fabrication, machining, and welding work, including:
• Labor hours by discipline and skill level
• Material requirements and traceability needs
• Outside services (NDE, heat treat, coatings, testing, etc.)
• Tooling, fixturing, and special process costs
• Interpret and apply nuclear quality and regulatory requirements (ASME Section III, NQA-1, 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, etc.) within estimates
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production to validate manufacturability and routing assumptions
• Work with Supply Chain to obtain vendor quotes for raw materials and subcontracted services
• Identify technical, schedule, and compliance risks and incorporate them into pricing strategies
• Support bid reviews, management proposal reviews, and customer clarification meetings
• Participate in contract handoff meetings to ensure smooth transition from estimating to production
• Maintain historical cost data and estimating tools for continuous improvement
• Ensure all estimating activities align with company quality assurance and nuclear compliance programs
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, engineering, welding technology, or a related field preferred
• 5+ years of experience in fabrication and welding estimating, preferably in a nuclear, aerospace, or other highly regulated industry
• Hands-on shop experience in welding or fabrication strongly preferred

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including welding, machining, forming, and assembly
• Working knowledge of nuclear codes and standards such as:
• ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (Section III and/or VIII)
• NQA-1 quality requirements
• Nuclear material traceability and documentation practices
• Familiarity with special processes (NDE, PWHT, surface treatments, etc.)
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and technical specifications

Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with high attention to detail
• Ability to develop labor hour estimates based on shop capabilities and historical data
• Proficient with estimating software, ERP/MRP systems, and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to work on a computer (standing or sitting) for most of the day and use standard office equipment. The ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally with team members, customers and vendors is essential. May occasionally lift and carry objects, materials, or equipment, typically under 25 pounds.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Combination of office and machine/fabrication shop environment around equipment such as water jet tables, lathes, milling machines, press brakes and forklifts. Welding operations are often taking place nearby. This job requires adherence to strict safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). JFT has implemented a 9/80 work schedule, and the office is closed every other Friday.

ACCESS TO RESTRICTED INFORMATION

This role requires immediate and routine access to restricted information under federal law. Under applicable DOE orders and client contracts, non-U.S. citizens (including lawful permanent residents) may require an approved DOE Foreign National Visit/Assignment (FNVA) before starting work. Because this position requires immediate access, JFT cannot initiate or sponsor new FNVA processes. Hiring is contingent on the candidate's eligibility to access all required information and facilities as of the start date. All offers are subject to applicable licensing, training, and other client or government requirements. JFT does not sponsor employment visas. Hiring decisions are based solely on access requirements and project timing, not on citizenship, immigration status, or national origin. JFT is an equal opportunity employer.

FLSA EXEMPT/NONEXEMPT STATUS

FLSA Non-Exempt, overtime eligible