Chief Estimator (Structural Steel Fabrication)

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 packageBenefits package to be discussed during the interview processProfessional 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 projectsReview bid invitations, construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents to determine project scope and requirementsPrepare detailed material takeoffs, labor estimates, equipment costs, and comprehensive project budgetsDevelop accurate and competitive estimates for structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication and installationAnalyze fabrication labor, shop production requirements, material costs, and erection expensesSolicit, review, and evaluate pricing from material suppliers, subcontractors, and vendorsCoordinate with fabrication and field operations to ensure estimates accurately reflect production capabilities and installation requirementsIdentify potential scope gaps, constructability concerns, and project risks during the bidding processReview project schedules, delivery requirements, and site logistics to determine potential cost impactsPrepare bid proposals, scope clarifications, exclusions, and supporting estimate documentationEvaluate bid opportunities and assist leadership in determining project pursuit strategiesParticipate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and project scope reviews as neededReview subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure pricing accuracy and scope coverageIdentify value engineering opportunities and alternative fabrication or installation methods to improve project competitivenessCoordinate with general contractors, construction managers, engineers, and other project stakeholders throughout the bidding processMaintain organized estimating records, bid documentation, historical pricing, and project cost dataMonitor market conditions, material pricing, and labor trends to maintain competitive estimating practicesReview completed project costs and collaborate with Project Managers to improve future estimating accuracyAssist with bid negotiations, scope reviews, and project handoffs following contract awardEstablish and improve estimating procedures, processes, and best practicesProvide guidance, training, and mentorship to estimating personnel as the department growsWork 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 metalsPrevious experience as a Senior Estimator, Lead Estimator, Chief Estimator, or similar position preferredStrong understanding of structural steel fabrication processes, shop operations, and field erection methodsProven ability to prepare detailed and accurate structural steel estimates from construction drawings and specificationsExperience estimating commercial structural steel and miscellaneous metals projectsKnowledge of structural steel materials, fabrication labor, erection costs, and subcontractor pricingAbility to read and interpret architectural drawings, structural drawings, shop drawings, and technical specificationsStrong understanding of construction contracts, bid documents, project scopes, and cost control principlesExperience coordinating with general contractors, suppliers, fabricators, erectors, and project management teamsFamiliarity with AISC, AWS, and applicable structural steel industry standardsProficiency with estimating and takeoff software such as Tekla PowerFab, FabTrol, Bluebeam, or similar platforms preferredStrong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and competing prioritiesPrevious experience mentoring or overseeing estimators is a plusBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience will be consideredEligibility 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.