Mechanical Estimator: Multi-trade Modular - FabLogix

Socket.dev; Duncan (SC); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kelso Industries, a national provider of HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical solutions, seeks an experienced Mechanical Estimator to deliver accurate cost estimates for multi-trade modular assemblies. You will work with engineering, operations, and project teams to develop executable scopes and pricing.

The ideal candidate has strong model-based take-offs (Navisworks), a solid grasp of fabrication-driven estimating, and a collaborative, execution-focused approach across pharma, chemical,

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in pipe fabrication, mechanical contracting, or industrial construction.
• Experience with modular or prefabricated systems preferred.
• Experience estimating for pharma, chemical, data center, or manufacturing facilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for multi-trade modular assemblies and associated structural steel.
• Perform quantity take-offs from Navisworks, orthographic and isometric drawings.
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing with fabrication and modular execution in mind.
• Coordinate with engineering to resolve model-drawing discrepancies.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes and assess risk and pricing.
• Support business development with budgets, scope summaries, and client-facing proposals.

Skills

Navisworks take-offs

Orthographic & isometric piping take‑o

Modular construction principles

Industrial pipe fabrication

Structural steel interfaces

QA/QC cost impacts

Estimating software & Excel

Tools

Navisworks

AutoCAD

MS Excel

Job description

Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety

At Kelso Industries, 4,000+ employees across 40+ companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.

Job Title

Mechanical Estimator –Multi-trade Modular

Location

Duncan, SC or open to Hybrid remote

Job Type

Full-time

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Mechanical Estimator responsible for preparing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for industrial pipe fabrication projects, specifically, multi-trade modular assemblies and associated structural steel. This role supports industrial clients across markets such as pharmaceutical, chemical, data centers, food & beverage, and advanced manufacturing.

The ideal candidate is highly skilled in model-based take-offs, understands fabrication-driven estimating, and can collaborate effectively with engineering, operations, and project teams to develop executable scopes and pricing.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction

• Prepare detailed estimates for:
• Multi-trade modular assemblies (pipe, structural steel, supports, equipment integration)
• Structural steel associated with pipe racks, skids, and modules
• Perform quantity take-offs using:
• Model-based take-offs from Navisworks
• Orthographic drawings
• Isometric drawings
• Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing aligned with fabrication and modular execution strategies
• Evaluate constructability, fabrication sequencing, and modularization opportunities during the estimating phase

Model & Drawing Review

• Navigate federated models to identify scope, extract quantities and validate model data against drawings and specifications
• Coordinate with engineering to resolve discrepancies between models, isometrics, and orthographic views

Cost Development & Risk Assessment

• Apply current market material cost data and production rates specific to shop fabrication and modular assembly
• Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes for pricing and availabilityEnsure compliance with industry standards, codes, and safety regulations
• Identify project risks, assumptions, exclusions, and clarifications
• Develop pricing narratives and scope summaries to support proposal submissions
• Participate in internal estimate reviews and handoffs to project management

Collaboration & Client Support

• Support business development and client pursuits with conceptual, budgetary, and detailed estimates
• Participate in scope alignment meetings with mechanical contractors, EPCs, and owners
• Assist in post-award estimate validation and turnover to operations
• Assist with procurement of material post-award

Qualifications & Skills

Technical Skills

• Strong experience with:
• Model-based quantity take-offs using Navisworks
• Orthographic and isometric piping take-offs
• Solid understanding of:
• Industrial pipe fabrication processes
• Modular construction principles
• Structural steel fabrication and erection interfaces
• Familiarity with piping specifications, material grades, welding requirements, and QA/QC impacts on cost
• Proficiency in estimating software, Excel, and digital take-off tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MS Excel, Navisworks).

Experience

• 5+ years of estimating experience in:
• Pipe fabrication, mechanical contracting, or industrial construction
• Modular or prefabricated systems (preferred)
• Experience estimating work for industrial clients such as pharma, chemical, data center, or manufacturing facilities

Professional Attributes

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills
• Ability to interpret incomplete or evolving design documents
• Strong communication skills for cross-functional and client-facing collaboration
• Practical, execution-focused mindset aligned with fabrication-driven delivery

Success Metrics

• Accuracy of estimates versus actual fabrication and modular execution costs
• Timeliness and completeness of estimate deliverables
• Quality of scope definition, assumptions, and risk identification
• Positive feedback from operations, engineering, and project teams during handoff

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Professional development and career growth opportunities.
• Paid time off and company holidays.

Why Join Kelso Industries?

Join us and be part of a team dedicated to creating efficient, sustainable, and high-performance environments that make a lasting impact across the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors.

Here you will experience:

• Growth Opportunities: Develop new skills, take on exciting challenges, and advance your career in meaningful ways.
• Company Culture: You’ll thrive in an environment that supports your growth, values your contributions, and makes work fulfilling and enjoyable.
• Impact: Your work directly contributes to meaningful outcomes, allowing you to see the difference you make and feel a sense of purpose every day.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: You’ll be rewarded fairly for your contributions while enjoying perks that enhance your financial security, health, and overall well-being.

Kelso Industries celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local employment discrimination laws where Kelso does business