Estimator (Welding & Fabrication)

Our Client is seeking a detail-oriented and technically strong Estimator to join our welding and fabrication team. This individual will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for custom assemblies that include machining, welding, fabrication, plating, finishing, and final assembly.

The ideal candidate understands manufacturing processes from raw material to finished product and can confidently analyze drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to develop precise job quotes.

This role is critical to our company’s growth, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Review RFQs (Requests for Quote), blueprints, drawings, and customer specifications

• Analyze assemblies that require:

  • Welding (MIG, TIG, Stick, Structural)

  • Machining (CNC, manual)

  • Fabrication

  • Plating / coating / finishing

  • Mechanical assembly

• Determine material requirements and pricing

• Calculate labor hours for fabrication, welding, machining, and assembly

• Obtain and compare vendor quotes for outside services (plating, heat treating, etc.)

• Prepare detailed cost breakdowns including:

  • Material

  • Labor

  • Outside processing

  • Overhead

  • Margin

• Communicate with engineering, production, and purchasing teams to validate assumptions

• Submit formal quotations to customers in a timely manner

• Maintain estimating database and historical cost records

• Support production during job kickoff to ensure cost assumptions align with execution

• Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in estimating within a welding, fabrication, or manufacturing environment

• Strong understanding of:

  • Welding processes

  • Machining processes

  • Fabrication techniques

  • Metal materials and grades

  • Manufacturing workflow

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings

• Experience quoting multi-step assemblies

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating software

• Strong math and analytical skills

• Excellent communication and organizational abilities

• Background in welding, machining, or shop floor experience

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems