Fabrication Cost Estimator

Description:

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Fabrication Cost Estimator to join our manufacturing team at Thermo Vac. This role is responsible for developing accurate cost estimates for fabricated steel products by collaborating with Customers, Vendors, Sales, Engineering, and Production. The Fabrication Cost Estimator plays a critical role in supporting profitable growth by preparing, tracking, and evaluating quotations for both new and existing parts in a fast-paced fabrication environment.

This position offers the opportunity to work closely with multiple departments, contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, and make a direct impact on customer satisfaction and business performance.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities:

- Prepare accurate cost estimates for new and existing fabricated steel parts based on drawings, specifications, and production requirements.

- Review engineered drawings and specifications to determine material, labor, and processing costs.

- Read and interpret weld symbols and fabrication requirements.

- Communicate with vendors to obtain material pricing, lead times, and subcontract services.

- Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, and Production teams to ensure estimates align with manufacturing capabilities.

- Present and support the sale of company products and services to new and existing customers.

- Manage and maintain a detailed quote log, including follow-up on open and closed quotations.

- Resolve customer inquiries related to pricing, scope, and delivery.

- Enter and maintain estimating data within the ERP system.

- Meet quoting deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

- Support continuous improvement efforts related to estimating accuracy and efficiency.

Experience & Education:

- High school diploma or equivalent required.

- Post-secondary education or technical training in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.

- Minimum of 5 years of experience in estimating, sales, or customer-facing roles within an industrial steel fabrication or manufacturing environment required.

Required Qualifications:

- Strong experience estimating fabricated steel or industrial manufacturing components.

- Ability to read and interpret engineered drawings and blueprints.

- Ability to read and interpret weld symbols.

- Proficiency with AutoCAD and Microsoft Office applications.

- Experience working within an ERP system (Epicor experience is a plus).

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with customers and vendors.

- Excellent organizational, time management, and negotiation skills.

- Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple quotations simultaneously and meet deadlines.

- Strong computer proficiency and data accuracy skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Mechanical engineering experience or technical background.

- Prior experience in a customer-facing sales or estimating role within a fabrication shop.

- Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives related to cost control or estimating accuracy.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

- This role is performed in a combination of office and fabrication shop environments.

- Regular interaction with shop floor personnel and exposure to typical manufacturing conditions such as noise or moving equipment.

- Use of standard office equipment including computers, phones, printers, and copiers.

- May require walking through the shop floor to review parts, processes, or production requirements.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may evolve based on the needs of the fabrication shop or organization.

Work Schedule:

- Status: Full-Time, On-Site – (Location: Oxford, MI)

- Standard Hours: Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week

- Overtime: May be required based on workload, quoting deadlines, or customer demand

- Travel: Minimal to none

Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance:

Health & Wellness

- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

- Health Savings Account (HSA)

- Life Insurance

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Retirement & Financial Security

- 401(k) retirement plan with 4% company match

- Tuition reimbursement for approved education and training

- Allowances for safety shoes and prescription safety glasses

Time Off

- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy

- 9 paid holidays per year

Company Culture

- Regular employee appreciation events

- Supportive, family-oriented work environment within a close-knit, small business setting

- Continuous improvement opportunities encouraged and supported

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, gender, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.