Lead Estimator

Cajun Industries, LLC; Baton Rouge (LA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Cajun Industries, LLC in Baton Rouge, LA is seeking a Lead Estimator to prepare proposals including cost, technical and commercial responses for complex mechanical and petrochemical projects.

The role involves leading conceptual and schematic estimates, reviewing bid documents, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure accurate, competitive bids. Travel may be required, and the ideal candidate will mentor support estimators and drive constructability reviews.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in mechanical estimating, preferably within petrochemical, oil and gas markets.
• Strong understanding of design-build and integrated project delivery methods.
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively with management/supervision.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of conceptual and schematic cost estimates for engineering, construction, and integrated delivery projects.
• Review bid documents published by the client.
• Review data to determine material and labor requirements and prepares itemized lists.
• Utilize historical data, quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and systems/line count methodologies.
• Compute cost factors and prepare estimates used for management purposes such as planning, organizing, and scheduling work; preparing bids; selecting vendors or subcontractors; and determining cost effectiveness.
• Consult with clients, vendors, or other individuals to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues.
• Interface with other individuals in the organization to obtain support and commitment to the cost estimates.
• Promote interaction with estimating team by brainstorming constructability of project, maximizing creativity, analyzing production rates, and maximizing indirect costs to reduce duration.
• Prepare technical and commercial approach to proposal cost
• Present cost models and estimates to internal teams and clients, ensuring transparency and trust

Skills

Mechanical estimating

Communication with management

Independent and collaborative work

Tools

Sage Estimating

Job description

Overview

The Lead Estimator is responsible for the preparation of proposals including cost, technical and commercial responses. Lead Estimator’s will play a critical role in supporting pre-construction and project development efforts across Cajun’s core markets. This role is a client-facing position and responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates during the conceptual and schematic design phases, ensuring alignment with project goals and budgets. The role involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and oversight of support estimators to promote successful project execution. The Lead Estimator may be required to work in a construction job setting and travel at times.

Responsibilities

*The following are intended as general illustrations of the work in this job class and are not all-inclusive for this position.

• Lead the development of conceptual and schematic cost estimates for engineering, construction, and integrated delivery projects

• Review and understand the bid documents published by the client
• Review data to determine material and labor requirements and prepares itemized lists
• Utilize historical data, quantity take-offs, unit pricing, and systems/line count methodologies.
• Compute cost factors and prepare estimates used for management purposes such as planning, organizing, and scheduling work; preparing bids; selecting vendors or subcontractors; and determining cost effectiveness
• Consult with clients, vendors, or other individuals to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues
• Interface with other individuals in the organization to obtain support and commitment to the cost estimates
• Promote interaction with estimating team by brainstorming constructability of project, maximizing creativity, analyzing production rates, and maximizing indirect costs to reduce duration.
• Prepare technical and commercial approach to proposal cost
• Present cost models and estimates to internal teams and clients, ensuring transparency and trust

Qualifications

Professional

• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in mechanical estimating, preferably within petrochemical, oil and gas markets.
• Strong understanding of design-build and integrated project delivery methods
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively with management/ supervision
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details

Preferred Skills

• Proficiency in estimating software and tools (e.g. Sage Estimating, or similar)
• Experience with construction logistics planning, schedule development, and constructability reviews
• Familiarity with Cajun’s core markets and project types

Physical: While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

• Remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods during office work and meetings.
• Operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Frequently communicate and exchange accurate information in person, electronically, and during virtual or telephone meetings.

Mental: While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee may be required to:

• Direct, collaborate with, and communicate with executives, clients, and project teams.
• Interpret and apply company policies, safety protocols, and written instructions.
• Perform mathematical calculations, analyze business data, and review project estimates.
• Maintain accuracy, productivity, and attention to detail while managing competing priorities in an active office environment with frequent interruptions.
• Process, retain, and manage complex project details, contractual requirements, and client data.