Summary:
As an Estimator, you'll be the linchpin of our project planning process, utilizing your keen analytical skills and industry knowledge to deliver accurate time, cost, and labor estimates. Your expertise will directly influence the efficiency, accuracy, and profitability of our projects. From reviewing technical drawings and specifications to collaborating with clients and vendors, you'll play an essential role in ensuring each project is completed on time and within budget.
Key Responsibilities:
- Data Review & Estimating: Analyze project documentation such as drawings, specifications, and proposals to determine material, labor, and time requirements. Create detailed, itemized lists that drive project planning and execution.
- Cost Analysis & Planning: Develop cost estimates that support key business decisions, including planning, scheduling, and vendor selection. Evaluate cost-effectiveness and provide recommendations for process improvements.
- Vendor & Client Collaboration: Engage with clients, vendors, and subcontractors to discuss project details, resolve issues, follow up on bids, and secure estimated work. Your ability to communicate effectively will directly impact project success.
- Cost Database Management: Organize and maintain a centralized cost-estimating database, ensuring historical data is utilized effectively. Conduct special studies to establish standard hours and develop strategies for cost reduction.
- Project Review & Discrepancy Resolution: Compare estimated costs to actual costs for completed projects. Identify discrepancies and provide actionable insights to improve future estimates and reduce inaccuracies.
- On-Site Visits: Travel to client sites as needed to measure, sketch, and consult on project specifics. Occasionally required for out-of-town or overnight travel. Provide accurate data collection to ensure estimates reflect real-world conditions.
- Trend Identification & Process Improvement: Identify cost trends and work with management to implement strategies for cost reduction and process improvement. Your ability to recognize patterns will help drive efficiency across projects.
- Quoting & Bidding Support: Analyze work orders, specifications, and contracts to prepare competitive customer quotes for material and labor, helping design, fabricate, install, or refurbish commercial metal jobs. Collaborate with other departments to support quoting efforts.
- Vendor Relations & Procurement: Coordinate with vendors to source, price, and schedule material deliveries to keep projects on track. Manage the logistics of materials and ensure timely procurement.
- Safety & Compliance: Work safely, adhering to Shickel Corporation's safety guidelines. Participate in safety meetings and promptly report any unsafe conditions or incidents. Your commitment to safety will help maintain a healthy and secure workplace.
- Team Collaboration: Exhibit teamwork and cooperation, adhering to company policies, the Shickel Guidebook of Principles, Policies, and Benefits. Foster an environment of trust and mutual support.
Qualifications:
- Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 2 years of related estimating experience or proven expertise in a similar role.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficient in relevant software applications, including estimating tools, spreadsheets, and project management software.
- Ability to operate company vehicles with a standard gear shift, adhering to all applicable regulations.
- Mathematical & Analytical Skills:
- Advanced proficiency in algebra, geometry, and engineering principles to calculate areas, volumes, and material requirements with accuracy.
- Strong understanding of precision measuring tools and techniques.
- Communication & Problem-Solving Skills:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to prepare reports, interact with stakeholders, and explain estimates clearly.
- Ability to interpret and solve complex, practical problems with limited standardization.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to lift and move up to 80 lbs occasionally.
- Capability to operate a computer for office tasks, as well as perform climbing and field measurements at client sites as needed.
Work Environment:
- Primarily office-based, but occasional exposure to manufacturing settings, mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, and outdoor weather conditions.
- Moderate noise levels in the office with exposure to higher noise levels in production environments.
Why Join Us?
At Shickel Corporation, we believe in empowering our team to shape the future of manufacturing and project estimating. By joining us, you'll have the opportunity to work on exciting, large-scale projects that challenge your skills and offer opportunities for growth. You'll be part of a collaborative, innovative team where your expertise will make a direct impact on our projects' success.