Project Estimator

Project Estimator Creative & Production Department Reports To: Production Manager & Creative Director Location: Chicago, IL (in-office) Good Time Creative is a woman-owned experiential design and production agency specializing in trade show exhibits, branded environments, and experiential activations. We partner with leading brands across beauty, wellness, CPG, and lifestyle industries to create memorable experiences that connect brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. Position Overview Good Time Creative is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Project Estimator to support our Creative and Production teams in bringing experiential & exhibit design concepts to life. This role is responsible for translating concept designs into accurate project cost estimates, working closely with designers, production, project management, and fabrication partners. The Estimator plays a critical role in ensuring projects are scoped and priced accurately across custom fabrication, modular exhibit systems, graphics, signage, and experiential elements. This position requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage multiple projects simultaneously, and communicates effectively across creative, account management, and production teams. Key Responsibilities Review estimate requests, renderings, and project specifications to fully understand scope and production requirements. Collaborate with designers and production team members to clarify fabrication approach prior to estimating. Source and obtain pricing from vendors, fabrication partners, and material suppliers to develop detailed project cost estimates based on floor plans, renderings, and written/verbal writeups. Estimate costs related to: Custom wood fabrication, Modular or pre-fabricated exhibit systems, Graphics, and Props/styling elements. Maintain documentation and supporting records used to calculate project cost based on GTC standard file storage practices. Attend final client viewings or internal build reviews when required. Research furniture/props/styling supporting exhibit and experiential design projects after project approval. Support production team with purchasing client approved finishes. Maintain a change order log, ensuring all scope changes are documented and reflected in project files. Collaborate closely with the Production Manager and Creative Director during creative/estimating phase ensuring project timelines are met. Qualifications 1-3+ years of experience in estimating and/or project management. Strong organizational and documentation skills. Excellent communication and collaboration abilities across multiple departments. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment. High attention to detail and strong analytical thinking. Bonus Points Experience in trade show exhibit fabrication or experiential marketing production. Familiarity with CAD drawings, renderings, and fabrication workflows. Experience working with fabrication vendors, exhibit houses, or production shops. Knowledge of materials used in exhibit fabrication including laminates, woods, metals, acrylics, and printed graphics. Key Traits for Success at GTC Exceptionally detail-oriented and organized Able to work independently while collaborating across teams Comfortable in a fast-paced creative environment Strong problem solver with production-minded thinking Clear communicator between creative vision and fabrication execution What We Offer Opportunity to work on high-profile experiential and trade show projects Collaborative, creative team environment Growth opportunities within a fast-growing experiential agency Competitive compensation and benefits package If you’re excited about turning creative concepts into real-world experiences and enjoy the intersection of design, fabrication, and project strategy, we’d love to hear from you! #J-18808-Ljbffr