Junior Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description: Junior Estimator

Company: Kraman Iron Works

Job Type: Full-Time

About Kraman Iron Works

Since 1913, Kraman Iron Works has been a foundational part of the New York skyline. For over a century, we have offered premier structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication and erection throughout New York City and the surrounding tristate areas.

We are looking for an ambitious, detail-oriented  Junior Estimator to join our pre-construction team and help us accurately price and win exciting new projects.

Position Overview

As a Junior Estimator, you will work directly alongside our senior estimating and project management teams. You will learn the ropes of structural and miscellaneous steel estimating by analyzing project blueprints, visiting active jobsites, and calculating precise material and labor costs. This is a foundational role with a clear path for growth within our company.

Key Responsibilities

• Review Plan Sheets & Blueprints: Analyze architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and digital takeoffs to identify structural steel, miscellaneous metals, and ironwork requirements.

• Conduct Site Visits: Travel to active and prospective jobsites to perform field measurements, evaluate site conditions, and verify how project constraints might impact installation costs.

• Process Change Orders: Assist in reviewing, tracking, and estimating the financial impact of project design changes, ensuring all modifications are accurately priced and documented.

• Compute Project Costs: Calculate comprehensive cost estimates by determining material quantities (tonnage, linear feet), labor hours, equipment rentals, and subcontractor expenses.

• Compare Estimating Data: Analyze and compare historic project data, vendor quotes, and previous estimates to identify cost trends, optimize pricing strategies, and ensure market competitiveness. 

Qualifications & Skills

• Steel-Specific Experience (Required): Direct, hands-on experience or internship exposure in the  structural steel fabrication, steel detailing, or miscellaneous metals construction industry. You must understand basic steel terminology, grades, and fabrication processes.

• Education/Experience: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience in the steel fabrication/construction industry).

• Blueprint Literacy: Ability to read and interpret construction documents, structural drawings, and architectural plans.

• Tech Savvy:   Tech Savvy: Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Procore, and Acrobat), strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and a solid working knowledge of the  Google Workspace (including  Google Sheets and  Docs ) for collaborative data sharing and documentation.

• Analytical Mindset: Strong mathematical skills with a natural ability to spot discrepancies in data and drawings.

• Communication: Clear written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with project managers, clients, and field crews.

• Mobility: A valid driver's license and willingness to visit local construction sites.

What We Offer

• Health & Dental Coverage: Full medical and dental insurance plans to keep you and your family covered.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Eligible to enroll after 1 year of continuous employment to help build your long-term savings.

• Profit Sharing: Access to our company profit-sharing plan (subject to a vesting schedule) after 1 year of service, allowing you to share in our mutual success.