Structural Steel Estimator

We are looking for a detail-oriented Steel Estimator / Detailer to join our team. In this dual-function role, you will take projects from initial tender through to shop drawing creation. You will be responsible for analyzing structural drawings, performing accurate material takeoff, calculating labor/fabrication costs, and modeling accurate steel assemblies for fabrication and erection.

Key Responsibilities

• Estimating: Analyze structural and architectural drawings, specifications, and scope of work to prepare complete cost estimates, material takeoffs, and bid proposals.

• Detailing & Modeling: Create 3D structural steel models, shop drawings, erection plans, and bill of materials (BOM) using modern detailing software.

• Bid Management: Solicit, review, and incorporate subcontractor and supplier quotes (galvanizing, buyouts, buyout steel, special coatings).

• Cross-Team Collaboration: Coordinate with project managers, structural engineers, architects, and shop superintendents to resolve RFIs and design discrepancies.

• Cost Tracking: Assist in managing change orders and scope revisions post-award.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years in structural steel estimating, detailing, or fabrication.

• Software Proficiency: Hands-on expertise in Tekla Structures, SDS2, or AutoCAD (3D modeling experience strongly preferred). Experience with estimating platforms (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, FabSuite/PowerFab) is a major plus.

• Technical Skills: ability to read and interpret complex architectural and structural blueprints, AISC standards, and connection details.

• Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil/Structural Engineering, Drafting, or equivalent hands-on trade experience.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation package + annual performance bonus

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays

• Professional development and software training support

salary: $20 - $25 per hour
shift: First
work hours: 8 AM - 5 PM
education: High School

Responsibilities

Steel Estimator Responsibilities

• Quantity Takeoffs: Analyzes architectural and structural drawings to calculate total tonnage of steel beams, columns, trusses, and hardware.

• Cost Projection: Calculates total project expenses including raw materials, shop fabrication labor hours, surface treatments (galvanizing, painting), freight shipping, and field erection.

• Vendor Negotiation: Requests competitive bids from steel mills, fastener suppliers, paint shops, and crane rental companies.

• Bid Preparation: Drafts formal project proposals and submits competitive bids to general contractors or project owners.

• Scope & Risk Analysis: Identifies discrepancies or omissions in design drawings and submits Requests for Information (RFIs) to prevent cost overruns.

Steel Detailer Responsibilities

• 3D Modeling: Builds precise structural 3D models using specialized software like Tekla Structures, SDS2, or AutoCAD.

• Shop Drawings: Generates detailed manufacturing drawings for every individual piece (beams, plates, angles) with exact dimensions, hole locations, and weld specifications.

• Erection Drawings: Produces layout plans and field assembly instructions for crane operators and ironworkers on the job site.

• Connection Design: Applies engineering standards (such as AISC) to detail bolts, welds, and gusset plates that join structural members.

• Data Export: Generates CNC files (NC/DSTV) directly from 3D models to drive automated shop machinery (cutting tables, drill lines).

The essential functions of this role include:

• working in a smoke free environment
• wearing steel toe shoes
• working in a non-temperature controlled environment
• manual lifting up to 75lbs
• standing for 6 hours at one time
• working up to 5 hrs of overtime per week
• working weekends

Skills

• structural blueprint reading (2 years of experience is required)
• Cost Estimating (2 years of experience is required)
• Math and Calculation (2 years of experience is required)
• CAD
• Bid Preperation
• Engineering (any)
• Problem Solving (2 years of experience is required)

Qualifications

• Years of experience: 3 years
• Experience level: Experienced

Randstad is a world leader in matching great people with great companies. Our experienced agents will listen carefully to your employment needs and then work diligently to match your skills and qualifications to the right job and company. Whether you're looking for temporary, temporary-to-permanent or permanent opportunities, no one works harder for you than Randstad.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.

At Randstad, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact View email address on randstadusa.com.

Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, AD&D, and life insurance offerings, short-term disability, and a 401K plan (all benefits are based on eligibility).

This posting is open for thirty (30) days.

Qualified applicants in San Francisco with criminal histories will be considered for employment in accordance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.


Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.


We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.