Senior Estimator

Join a nationally recognized leader in heavy fabrication, machining, and complex industrial solutions with over a century of experience. As the world’s largest manufacturer of movable bridge machinery and a family-owned, HUBZone-certified business, the company is dedicated to reshaping American infrastructure through quality, innovation, and on-time delivery. The Senior Estimator will play a critical role in supporting large-scale industrial and infrastructure projects, including movable bridges, aerospace components, lock and dam gates, hydropower projects, and defense systems. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who thrives on breaking down complex scopes, identifying risks, and developing accurate, competitive project estimates. Be part of a skilled, hands-on team that values craftsmanship, precision, and long-term career growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and document detailed cost estimates and plans for heavy industrial projects, including movable bridges, lock & dam gates, hydropower equipment, aerospace components, and defense systems.
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to define project scope and pricing strategies.
• Perform quantity take-offs and analyze labor and material costs for fabrication, machining, assembly, and installation.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and project management teams to ensure alignment on project scope and execution.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes to ensure competitive and accurate pricing.
• Identify project risks, constructability challenges, and value engineering opportunities to enhance project outcomes.
• Maintain and utilize historical cost data to improve estimate accuracy and efficiency.
• Participate in bid reviews, proposal development, and customer discussions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with applicable FAR/DFAR requirements for government contracts, including cost or pricing data submissions when required.
• Proactively identify new bid opportunities and potential project leads through industry networks, procurement portals, and market research.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience will be considered.
• 5–10+ years of estimating experience in heavy industrial, civil, structural steel, or manufacturing environments such as shipbuilding, barge building, or tugboats.
• Experience with projects such as movable bridges, lock & dam systems, hydropower, or aerospace manufacturing strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of heavy fabrication, machining processes, welding, and large assembly projects.
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in estimating tools and software (e.g., Bluebeam, Excel-based systems, ERP platforms), including building and automating estimates in Excel.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally in a hands-on environment.
• Demonstrated ability to adopt and leverage new estimating tools, software, and technologies.
• Experience working in a fabrication shop or manufacturing environment is a plus.
• Knowledge of government contracting and infrastructure bids preferred.
• Familiarity with FAR/DFAR cost principles and government contract pricing preferred.
• Practical, problem-solving mindset with attention to detail and ownership of results.
• Self-starter with a results-oriented approach and a track record of seeing estimates through from initial scope review to final proposal submission.

Benefits

• Work on high-profile, technically challenging infrastructure and industrial projects across the country.
• Be part of the world’s largest manufacturer of movable bridge machinery.
• Collaborate with a skilled, hands-on team that values craftsmanship and precision.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for long-term career growth with a family-owned company with over a century of manufacturing excellence.
• Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
• Participation in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility.
• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.
• Compliance with all applicable federal anti-discrimination laws and export control regulations.