Steel Estimators

PennFab, Inc.; Southampton Township (PA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

PennFab, Inc. is a metal fabrication company and steel service center located in the Tri-State area, known for rail, transit and infrastructure projects along the East Coast.

The Steel Estimator is a full-time, on-site role in Morrisville, PA, focusing on takeoffs, material and labor estimates, and bid preparation. You will collaborate with engineers, project management, and fabrication teams, ensuring accurate bids and timely proposals while maintaining records and databases.

Qualifications

• Interpret structural and fabrication drawings and specs for steel projects.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and cost analysis for steel fabrication.
• Prepare material and labor estimates; support proposals.
• Proficiency with Excel and ERP; CAD familiarity beneficial.
• Strong math, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication with engineers, project management, shop personnel, and vendors.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple bids and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Review project drawings and specifications.
• Perform takeoffs and prepare estimates.
• Coordinate with engineers and fabrication teams.
• Obtain pricing from suppliers/subcontractors.
• Prepare formal proposals and assist budgeting.
• Maintain estimate records and project databases.
• Communicate scope and resolve discrepancies with clients.

Skills

Drawings interpretation

Estimating methods

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Bid coordination

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma

Technical training or degree in engineering / construction management or related field

Tools

Excel

CAD software

ERP systems

Job description

Company Description

PennFab, Inc. is a metal fabrication company and steel service center, recognized as one of the leading fabricators in the Tri-State area. The company specializes in rail, transit, and infrastructure projects along the East Coast of the United States. With in-house engineering and estimating capabilities, as well as AWS Certified Welders, PennFab maintains strict quality standards for all fabrication and welding work. PennFab is a family- and friend-oriented business focused on cultivating employees and supporting long-term careers. The team includes highly skilled craftsmen who have contributed to projects for clients such as SEPTA, Amtrak, and numerous stadiums, rail stations, bridges, and signage installations.

Role Description

The Steel Estimator role is a full-time, on-site position based in Morrisville, PA. The Steel Estimator will review project drawings and specifications, perform detailed takeoffs, and prepare material and labor estimates for processing and fabrication. Day-to-day responsibilities include analyzing bid documents, coordinating with engineers, project management, and fabrication teams, and obtaining pricing from suppliers and subcontractors. The role also involves preparing formal proposals, assisting with budgeting and cost control, and updating estimate records and project databases. The Steel Estimator will communicate with clients and internal stakeholders to clarify scope, resolve discrepancies, and support accurate, timely bids.

Qualifications

• Ability to interpret structural and fabrication drawings, specifications, and technical documents related to steel construction, rail, and infrastructure projects.
• Experience with estimating methods, quantity takeoffs, and cost analysis for steel materials, fabrication, and erection.
• Proficiency with relevant software tools such as Microsoft Excel, estimating or ERP systems; familiarity with CAD or modeling software is beneficial.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and accuracy in calculations and documentation.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with engineering, project management, shop personnel, and external vendors.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and shifting priorities in a fast-paced fabrication environment.
• Prior experience in steel fabrication, construction, or rail/infrastructure projects is preferred; knowledge of industry standards and welding practices is a plus.
• High school diploma required; technical training or a degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is advantageous.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement, with a willingness to learn PennFab’s processes and standards.