ESTIMATOR

Position Overview

VAST Steel is looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Estimator to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for developing accurate and competitive cost estimates for structural steel erection projects, ensuring alignment with company objectives and client expectations. Your expertise in analyzing construction documents, performing material takeoffs, and preparing comprehensive bids will be instrumental in securing profitable projects and maintaining VAST Steel’s reputation for excellence in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Document Analysis: Review and interpret architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and addenda to extract critical project details and requirements.
• Material Takeoffs: Conduct thorough and precise material takeoffs to determine the quantities of steel, labor, and other resources needed for each project.
• Cost Estimation: Prepare detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services, ensuring competitive and realistic pricing.
• Bid Proposal Development: Craft comprehensive bid proposals and pricing strategies that reflect VAST Steel’s capabilities while meeting client expectations.
• Cost Database Management: Maintain and update cost databases and historical pricing information to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of future estimates.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate closely with vendors, suppliers, subcontractors, engineers, and project managers to gather necessary data and ensure seamless project execution.
• Compliance and Risk Assessment: Review bid documents to ensure full compliance with project specifications, scope of work, and regulatory requirements. Identify potential risks and opportunities to optimize bid competitiveness.
• Bid Management: Handle multiple bids simultaneously, adhering to tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
• Value Engineering: Identify and propose value engineering opportunities to enhance project efficiency and cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare comprehensive estimate summaries and presentations for internal review, and maintain organized records of bid documents, proposals, correspondence, and historical data.
• Bid Analysis: Track bid results, analyze feedback, and identify trends to refine estimating processes and improve future accuracy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with field teams and project managers to bridge the gap between estimating and on-site execution, ensuring seamless project delivery.
• Preliminary Estimates: Assist in developing budgets and preliminary estimates for new projects, providing early insights to support strategic decision-making.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel in this role, you should possess a strong foundation in construction estimating, particularly within the structural steel or heavy commercial/industrial sectors. VAST Steel values candidates who demonstrate a commitment to accuracy, efficiency, and continuous improvement in their estimating practices.

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil/Structural Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience in estimating for structural steel or heavy commercial/industrial construction is highly desirable. Direct experience with steel erection projects is a significant advantage.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in estimating software such as E-Takeoff, Bluebeam, Tekla EPM, FabSuite, or similar tools is essential. Advanced Excel and Microsoft Office skills are also required.
• Industry Knowledge: A deep understanding of construction drawings, weld symbols, connection details, AISC standards, and OSHA safety requirements is critical to success in this role.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills are necessary to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Why Join VAST Steel?

At VAST Steel, we are committed to fostering a supportive and growth-oriented work environment. As an Estimator, you will benefit from competitive wages, paid training programs, and comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, vision, and dental coverage. Our holistic safety training initiatives ensure that you are equipped to maintain the highest standards of safety on every project. Additionally, this role offers significant opportunities for career advancement, allowing you to grow professionally within a dynamic and industry-leading organization.