Steel Estimator – Structural & Miscellaneous Steel

Construction Worldwide; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Construction Worldwide is seeking an experienced Steel Estimator to join our West Coast team. You will own the estimating process for structural and miscellaneous steel, developing accurate and competitive bids from drawings and specs.

You will work with Project Managers, Engineers, and fabricators to resolve scope questions and ensure bids reflect all costs. A strong background in steel fabrication and erection is essential, with CA market familiarity preferred.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of estimating experience in structural steel or related markets.
• Experience reading drawings, specs, RFQs, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with estimating software and strong Excel use for cost analysis.
• Ability to develop detailed and competitive bids under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of estimating process for structural and miscellaneous steel projects.
• Perform detailed material and quantity takeoffs and cost estimates.
• Develop estimates for material, fabrication, shop labor, erection, and equipment costs.
• Prepare competitive bid proposals and analyze subcontractor quotations.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, and clients to clarify scope.

Skills

5+ years estimating experience

Strong Excel skills

Attention to detail

Communication and analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

Bluebeam

Tekla EPM

Tekla PowerFab

Excel

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 Bring

Required

• 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.