Job Description
Job Description
Job Description
Located in San Diego, CA
Salary: $25-$30
Estimator Position Purpose:
As Estimator, you are responsible for accurately scoping, pricing, and communicating the full cost and timeline of every job that comes through the door. You are the first line of truth between concept and reality. Your numbers, logic, and clarity define whether a job is profitable, realistic, and executable. Your work enables the shop to plan, the client to trust, and the company to grow with confidence.
Core Responsibilities 1. Estimating & Bid Preparation (Daily + As Needed)- Review architectural drawings, shop drawings, sketches, photos, and verbal concepts
- Break down each job into material, labor, equipment, subcontractor, and overhead components
- Request and compare vendor pricing for materials and outsourcing (e.g., laser cutting, powder coating, galvanizing)
- Generate accurate, detailed written estimates with clear inclusions and exclusions
- Build in realistic lead times, fabrication hours, and install timelines based on current shop capacity
2. Material & Labor Calculations (Per Quote)- Perform takeoffs manually or with software - linear footage, weight, cuts, bends, welds, finish
- Estimate welding hours, fab hours, prep, and install time based on similar past jobs
- Account for consumables, shop wear, and delivery costs when necessary
- Clearly separate assumptions, allowances, and hard numbers - avoid hidden gaps
- Collaborate with Foreman or Lead Fabricator for production input if needed
3. Job Handoff & Support (Post-Award)- Provide detailed job handoff to Project Manager or Foreman, including:
- Final estimate with cost breakdown
- Scope clarifications and exclusions
- Any pending vendor lead times or dependencies
- Be available during the project for clarifications, change orders, or scope shifts
- Track and report on actual vs. estimated time and cost for ongoing improvement
4. Client & Vendor Communication (As Needed)- Clarify scopes with clients, architects, or GCs during bidding
- Attend site visits or meetings to confirm field conditions if required
- Work professionally and promptly with material vendors and specialty shops
- Maintain clear email, quote logs, and communication records
- Works With: Shop Foreman, Project Manager, Purchasing, Vendors, ClientsTools & Systems Used: Quote templates, spreadsheets, project management software, drawings (CAD), field notes
Success in This Role Looks Like: - Quotes are accurate, detailed, and clearly scoped - no surprises down the line
- Jobs hit their margin targets because your estimates were grounded and complete
- The shop is never blind to what's coming - everything starts with a clean handoff
- Clients trust your numbers and communication
- You continually sharpen your estimating accuracy through job-cost feedback
Position Requirements - 3+ years of experience in fabrication, welding, or construction estimating
- Strong understanding of materials, welding processes, fabrication steps, and labor flow
- Blueprint reading and takeoff proficiency (structural, ornamental, or architectural metals)
- Familiarity with local vendors, finishes, hardware, and outsourcing processes
- Organized, detail-oriented, and able to juggle multiple bids under deadlines
- Strong written and verbal communication
- Optional but valuable: CAD proficiency, field measuring experience, install knowledge
#2180OS
Express Office: San Diego (Downtown)
3160 Camino Del Rio South
Suite 202
San Diego, CA 92108
Job Tags
For subcontractor, Work at office, Local area, Shift work,