Senior Estimator - Heavy Steel Fabrication

Senior Estimator – Heavy Steel Fabrication

Location: Lisle, IL / Eau Claire, WI

Compensation: $130,000–$140,000 + Benefits (flexible for exceptional candidates)

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator with a strong background in heavy steel fabrication, structural steel, and complex infrastructure projects.

This is a senior individual-contributor position responsible for leading high-value, technically complex bids, developing accurate cost estimates, and providing technical guidance to junior estimators. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience estimating large-scale steel fabrication projects and a strong understanding of fabrication processes, labor costing, procurement, and project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cost estimation and bidding for large, complex steel fabrication projects.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, RFPs, and contract documents.
• Develop accurate material take-offs, labor estimates, fabrication costs, and project budgets.
• Evaluate subcontractor pricing, material costs, transportation, and procurement requirements.
• Lead bid reviews and present estimates to senior management.
• Develop estimating strategies to improve bid competitiveness and profitability.
• Mentor junior estimators and provide technical guidance.
• Coordinate with engineering, purchasing, detailing, and production teams.
• Prepare change-order estimates and support project cost analysis.

Required Qualifications

• 8–12+ years of experience in estimating within a major steel fabrication or heavy steel manufacturing company.
• Direct experience with heavy structural steel or bridge fabrication.
• Experience estimating large-scale infrastructure projects, such as bridges, stadiums, universities, museums, or high-rise structures.
• Strong ability to interpret structural drawings, specifications, and complex bid documents.
• Working knowledge of AWS welding symbols, AISC standards, AREMA, and DOT specifications.
• Expertise in material take-offs, labor productivity, fabrication costing, and procurement.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and MS Project.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex bids and mentor junior estimating professionals.

Additional Requirements

• Must be authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder).
• Must be willing to work from either Lisle, IL, or Eau Claire, WI.
• Candidates selecting the Illinois location must be available for an initial 6–8 weeks of training in Wisconsin.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $130K–$140K, with flexibility for highly qualified candidates.
• Comprehensive medical benefits.
• 401(k) with employer matching.
• Three weeks of paid vacation and additional paid holidays.
• Relocation assistance available, along with travel and accommodation support during initial training.