Steel Estimator – Structural & Miscellaneous Steel

Construction WorldWide; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Advanced Employment Services, Inc. is seeking a Steel Estimator to own the estimating process for structural and miscellaneous steel projects on the West Coast. You will review drawings, specs, RFQs, and contracts to develop accurate, competitive bids.

You will perform detailed material and quantity takeoffs, price fabrications, shop labor, erection, and equipment, and prepare bid proposals. Join an experienced team of project managers, engineers, and fabricators to drive winning bids and

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in structural steel or related field.
• Experience with steel fabrication/erection processes.
• Ability to read and interpret structural drawings/specifications.
• Proficiency with estimating software and Excel.
• Experience with union labor markets in CA is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings, specifications, RFQs, and contract documents to define scope and requirements.
• Perform detailed material and quantity takeoffs.
• Develop estimates for material, fabrication, shop labor, field erection, equipment, and other project costs.
• Prepare competitive bid proposals and solicit vendor/subcontractor quotations.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Operations, and clients to clarify scope.

Skills

Estimating experience

Steel fabrication knowledge

Reading drawings

Excel proficiency

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Bluebeam

Tekla EPM

Tekla PowerFab

Job description

Estimate Projects That Shape the West Coast

Are you an experienced Steel Estimator who can look at a set of drawings and quickly understand the scope, cost, and challenges behind the project?

This is an opportunity to join a well-established structural steel contractor with a strong track record of delivering complex fabrication and erection projects across the West Coast.

You’ll play an important role in pursuing major projects—from detailed quantity takeoffs and subcontractor pricing through final bid submission—while working alongside experienced project managers, engineers, fabricators, and construction professionals.

If you’re looking for a position where your estimating expertise has a direct impact on the projects the company wins and the business continues to build, this could be an excellent next step.

What You’ll Do

As a Steel Estimator, you’ll take ownership of the estimating process and help develop accurate, competitive bids for structural and miscellaneous steel projects.

• Review drawings, specifications, RFQs, and contract documents to understand project scope and requirements


• Perform detailed material and quantity takeoffs


• Develop estimates for material, fabrication, shop labor, field erection, equipment, and other project costs


• Prepare competitive and comprehensive bid proposals


• Solicit, analyze, and level vendor and subcontractor quotations


• Identify scope gaps, exclusions, risks, and potential cost impacts before bids are submitted


• Work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, Operations, and clients to clarify scope and resolve questions


• Track historical costs and maintain estimating databases and bid documentation


• Help identify opportunities to improve estimating accuracy, efficiency, and win rates


• Support the transition from estimating to project execution by providing clear scope and pricing information

What You BringRequired

• 5+ years of estimating experience in structural steel, miscellaneous metals, steel fabrication, or steel erection


• Experience working for a steel fabricator, steel erector, or structural steel contractor


• Strong understanding of steel fabrication and erection methods


• Ability to read and interpret structural drawings, specifications, and construction documents


• Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs and cost estimates


• Proficiency with Bluebeam, Tekla EPM, Tekla PowerFab, or comparable estimating software


• Strong Excel skills and the ability to organize and analyze project cost information


• Excellent attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines


• Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Preferred

• Experience estimating large-scale commercial, high-rise, infrastructure, or complex structural steel projects


• Familiarity with AISC standards and industry practices


• Experience working in union labor markets, particularly California


• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline—or equivalent industry experience

Why Consider This Opportunity?Projects That Matter

Work on significant structural steel projects across the West Coast, including complex commercial and infrastructure work.

Your Estimates Have an Impact

You won’t simply be producing numbers. Your work will help determine which projects the company pursues, wins, and successfully delivers.

Established & Growing Company

Join a well-established organization with a strong reputation in structural steel and a growing pipeline of work.

Competitive Compensation

Receive a competitive base salary along with performance-based bonus opportunities.

Room to Grow

Build on your estimating expertise while gaining exposure to increasingly complex projects and broader aspects of the business.

Experienced Team

Work alongside professionals with deep experience in estimating, engineering, fabrication, project management, and field operations.

Ready for Your Next Move?

If you’re a Steel Estimator who knows how to turn drawings, specifications, and project requirements into accurate, competitive bids, we’d like to hear from you.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.