Fabrication Estimator

TST Fab & Machine LLC; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 59,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Family coverage

401(k)

Paid holidays

Job summary

TST Fab & Machine, LLC. in Norfolk, Virginia is seeking an experienced Fabrication Estimator to join our pre-production team.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in metal fabrication, machining, and cost estimation, and will review customer requirements, interpret technical drawings, evaluate manufacturing processes, and develop accurate, competitive cost estimates for fabricated components. The role involves collaborating with production, purchasing, quality control, and

Qualifications

• Previous professional experience in manufacturing estimating, preferably metal fabrication/machining.
• Ability to independently prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Strong understanding of fabrication, welding, machining processes.
• Proficient in reading engineering drawings, blueprints, tolerances, and specs.
• Knowledge of material costs, labor calculations, and outside processing requirements.
• Excellent math, analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in Excel and standard business apps.
• Experience with estimating software and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration with production, suppliers, and customers.

Responsibilities

• Independently review RFQs, drawings, and specifications to develop cost estimates.
• Calculate material quantities, labor hours, tooling, and outside services for projects.
• Determine manufacturing costs considering material pricing, overhead, and profitability.
• Evaluate feasibility, risks, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare competitive quotations aligning with customer requirements.
• Maintain estimating records and pricing databases.
• Collaborate with production and quality teams to ensure estimate accuracy.

Skills

Cost estimation

Fabrication knowledge

Excel

ERP systems

Communication

Analytical skills

Project management

Reading drawings

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Manufacturing/Business

Tools

CAD/CAM software

Estimating software

ERP systems

Job description

Fabrication Estimator

TST Fab & Machine, LLC. | Norfolk, Virginia

Salary: $65,000+ annually, based on experience and qualifications

Employment Type: Full-Time

Work Location: On-site – Norfolk, VA

Work Schedule:

• Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Join Our Team!

TST Fab & Machine, LLC. is seeking an experienced Fabrication Estimator to join our manufacturing and pre-production team in Norfolk, Virginia.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in metal fabrication, machining, manufacturing processes, and cost estimation. This individual will be responsible for reviewing customer requirements, interpreting technical drawings, evaluating manufacturing processes, and developing accurate, competitive cost estimates for fabricated components.

We are looking for a knowledgeable, detail-oriented professional who understands the complexities of manufacturing and can effectively collaborate with production, purchasing, quality control, and leadership to support successful project execution.

Why Work at TST Fab & Machine?

We value our employees and are committed to providing competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Our benefits include:

• Starting salary of $65,000+, based on experience
• 100% employer-paid employee-only medical insurance
• Family medical, dental, and vision coverage options
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Company-paid life insurance and disability benefits
• Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Employee referral bonuses of up to $1,000
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development
• Supportive, team-oriented manufacturing environment

Key Responsibilities

Cost Estimating and Project Analysis

• Independently review and analyze customer requests for quotations (RFQs), engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specifications, and manufacturing requirements.
• Develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for metal fabrication, machining, welding, finishing, assemblies, and related manufacturing projects.
• Determine material quantities, labor hours, production processes, tooling requirements, and outside services necessary to complete projects.
• Calculate estimated manufacturing costs while considering material pricing, labor, overhead, production efficiency, and profitability.
• Evaluate manufacturing feasibility, potential risks, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare competitive quotations that align with customer requirements and company objectives.
• Maintain accurate estimating records, historical pricing data, and supporting documentation.

Manufacturing and Technical Expertise

• Interpret complex engineering drawings, tolerances, material specifications, and manufacturing instructions.
• Apply practical knowledge of fabrication and machining processes to determine efficient production methods.
• Evaluate manufacturing requirements involving cutting, forming, welding, machining, finishing, and assembly.
• Identify potential production challenges, material limitations, and technical concerns that may affect cost or delivery.
• Coordinate with production and quality control personnel to ensure estimates reflect actual manufacturing capabilities and customer specifications.

Collaboration and Customer Support

• Work closely with production management, purchasing, quality control, and pre-production teams to develop accurate estimates.
• Obtain material pricing and outside processing quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Communicate with customers, including government and commercial customers, to clarify project requirements and technical specifications.
• Support pricing discussions, quotation revisions, and project planning as needed.
• Ensure timely completion and submission of customer quotations.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve estimating accuracy, cost efficiency, and overall profitability.
• Maintain and improve estimating tools, pricing databases, and cost-tracking procedures.
• Review completed project costs against original estimates to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives throughout the estimating and manufacturing process.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Previous professional experience in manufacturing estimating, preferably within a metal fabrication, machining, or industrial manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to independently prepare accurate and detailed manufacturing cost estimates.
• Strong understanding of fabrication, welding, machining, and related production processes.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, tolerances, and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of material costs, labor calculations, production timelines, and outside processing requirements.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other standard business applications.
• Experience working with estimating software, ERP systems, or related manufacturing applications.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with production teams, suppliers, and customers.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates, prioritize deadlines, and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and accountability.
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Business, or a related technical field.
• Experience estimating complex metal fabrication and precision machining projects.
• Experience with government, military, or defense-related manufacturing projects.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software and manufacturing planning systems.
• Experience identifying cost-saving opportunities and improving estimating procedures.

Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant industry experience will be considered.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Sitting: Approximately 90% of the workday.
• Walking/Standing: Approximately 10% of the workday.
• Lifting: Occasional lifting of items weighing up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to work in an office environment with occasional visits to active manufacturing areas.
• Compliance with all applicable workplace safety requirements, including required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Our Core Values – S.A.G.A.

At TST Fab & Machine, our employees demonstrate our core values every day:

• Safety First: Prioritize safety in every task and decision.
• Accountability: Take ownership of responsibilities, actions, and results.
• Good to Great: Continuously strive for improvement, efficiency, and excellence.
• All In: Work collaboratively and contribute to the success of our team and customers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

TST Fab & Machine, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Bring your expertise. Grow your career. Be part of TST Fab & Machine!