Estimator, Architectural Metal Systems

Who We Are Wade Architectural Systems is a technical distributor and preconstruction partner for high-performance metal panel, cladding, and roof systems used across commercial, institutional, industrial, and multifamily construction. We work in the space between manufacturers, architecture firms, and installation contractors. Our job is to make sure what an architect designs can be accurately estimated, correctly detailed, and cleanly installed in the field. Estimation accuracy is one of the core reasons customers choose us. This role sits at the center of that. What You'll Do You will turn architectural drawings and specifications into accurate, complete, defensible numbers. Day to day, that looks like: • Takeoffs and estimates. Examine drawings, specifications, and project documentation to develop material, labor, and cost projections for metal panel, cladding, and roof systems. Account for waste, accessories, trim, fasteners, and scope boundaries so installers can bid with confidence and nobody gets surprised mid-project. • Scope reviews. Define what's in and what's out on every opportunity. Identify gaps, overlaps, and exclusions in bid documents and flag them before they become change orders. • Constructability assessment. Review details, transitions, penetrations, and edge conditions with an eye for what will actually build in the field. When a detail won't work, say so early. • Product assessment. Evaluate specified systems against project conditions and requirements. Know when the specified product fits and when an alternate needs to be discussed. • Pricing coordination. Work with our manufacturer partners to obtain, verify, and assemble current pricing. Track pricing changes and keep quotes built on real numbers. • Proposal building. Assemble clear, complete proposals and quotations that define system, scope, accessories, and terms. • Spreadsheets and cost data. Build and maintain estimating spreadsheets in Excel. Gather historical cost data, compare actuals against estimates on completed work, and make the next estimate better than the last. • Communication. Discuss estimates, adjustments, and scope questions directly with installers, architects, general contractors, and manufacturer reps. You are a technical resource, not an order desk. •Occasionally support project coordination during handoff from estimate to order, but this is an estimating seat first. What We're Looking For •Experience in construction estimating, quantity takeoff, or preconstruction. Building envelope, metal panels, roofing, cladding, or glazing experience is a strong plus. •Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings and specifications, including Division 07. •Strong working command of Excel: building spreadsheets, not just filling them in. •Solid applied math: quantities, areas, unit conversions, margins. •High accuracy under deadlines. Estimating rewards people who check their own work. •Clear written and verbal communication. You'll be talking with estimators, PMs, architects, and reps who know their stuff. •Organized enough to run multiple estimates at different stages at the same time. •Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field, or equivalent field experience. •Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Experience with On-Screen Takeoff and ConstructConnect is a strong plus. We'll train you on our in-house quote system. What It's Like to Work Here Small, experienced team. Direct access to the people who make decisions. Your estimates don't disappear into a queue; they win or lose real projects, and you'll see the results. We value people who do the work right, flag problems early, and look out for each other. Compensation and Benefits •Competitive pay that includes bonus potential •A positive work environment where people look out for each other •Health insurance: medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans •Retirement savings plan (401K) with company contribution •Paid holidays and vacation (PTO) Employment Type: Full Time Bonus/Commission: No