Chief Estimator (Structural Steel Fabrication)

Job Description

Job Title: Chief Estimator / Lead Estimator (Structural Steel & Miscellaneous Metals)

Location: Port St. Lucie / Treasure Coast, FL (Relocation Assistance Available)

Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000 DOE

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package
• Benefits package to be discussed during the interview process
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Company Overview:

Tiello has partnered with a highly reputable Structural Steel Fabricator & Erector in South Florida on their search for a Chief Estimator / Lead Estimator to oversee estimating and preconstruction efforts for commercial structural steel and miscellaneous metals projects.

This established contractor specializes in structural steel fabrication and erection, miscellaneous metals, steel bar joists, metal decking, stairs, railings, and other custom steel fabrication solutions.

Role Summary:

The ideal candidate will have 7+ years of structural steel and/or miscellaneous metals estimating experience , with a strong understanding of fabrication processes, erection methods, material pricing, and construction bid preparation.

The Chief Estimator / Lead Estimator will be responsible for managing the estimating process from initial bid invitation through final proposal submission, ensuring accurate takeoffs, competitive pricing, and profitable project pursuits.

This individual will work closely with company leadership, project management, fabrication, and field operations to evaluate project opportunities, develop comprehensive estimates, and support the company's continued growth.

Project Types:

Structural Steel Fabrication & Erection, Miscellaneous Metals, Commercial Construction, Steel Bar Joists & Metal Decking, Stairs, Railings, and Specialty Steel Fabrication Projects

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the estimating process for structural steel fabrication, erection, and miscellaneous metals projects
• Review bid invitations, construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project scope and requirements
• Prepare detailed material takeoffs, labor estimates, equipment costs, and comprehensive project budgets
• Develop accurate and competitive estimates for structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication and installation
• Analyze fabrication labor, shop production requirements, material costs, and erection expenses
• Solicit, review, and evaluate pricing from material suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors
• Coordinate with fabrication and field operations to ensure estimates accurately reflect production capabilities and installation requirements
• Identify potential scope gaps, constructability concerns, and project risks during the bidding process
• Review project schedules, delivery requirements, and site logistics to determine potential cost impacts
• Prepare bid proposals, scope clarifications, exclusions, and supporting estimate documentation
• Evaluate bid opportunities and assist leadership in determining project pursuit strategies
• Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project scope reviews as needed
• Review subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure pricing accuracy and scope coverage
• Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative fabrication or installation methods to improve project competitiveness
• Coordinate with general contractors, construction managers, engineers, and other project stakeholders throughout the bidding process
• Maintain organized estimating records, bid documentation, historical pricing, and project cost data
• Monitor market conditions, material pricing, and labor trends to maintain competitive estimating practices
• Review completed project costs and collaborate with Project Managers to improve future estimating accuracy
• Assist with bid negotiations, scope reviews, and project handoffs following contract award
• Establish and improve estimating procedures, processes, and best practices
• Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to estimating personnel as the department grows
• Work directly with company leadership to support business development, bid strategy, profitability, and long-term growth

Qualifications / Requirements:

• 7+ years of estimating experience within structural steel fabrication, erection, and/or miscellaneous metals
• Previous experience as a Senior Estimator, Lead Estimator, Chief Estimator, or similar position preferred
• Strong understanding of structural steel fabrication processes, shop operations, and field erection methods
• Proven ability to prepare detailed and accurate structural steel estimates from construction drawings and specifications
• Experience estimating commercial structural steel and miscellaneous metals projects
• Knowledge of structural steel materials, fabrication labor, erection costs, and subcontractor pricing
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, structural drawings, shop drawings, and technical specifications
• Strong understanding of construction contracts, bid documents, project scopes, and cost control principles
• Experience coordinating with general contractors, suppliers, fabricators, erectors, and project management teams
• Familiarity with AISC, AWS, and applicable structural steel industry standards
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff software such as Tekla PowerFab, FabTrol, Bluebeam, or similar platforms preferred
• Strong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and competing priorities
• Previous experience mentoring or overseeing estimators is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience will be considered
• Eligibility to work in the U.S.

Legal & EEO Language:

Tiello LLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Your Right to Work:

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.