Estimator

Conrad Shipyard•Morgan City, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator is responsible for preparing comprehensive cost estimates for new construction and project change orders, utilizing historical data, labor standards, material pricing, and subcontractor inputs. This role involves coordinating subcontractor and vendor pricing for labor, materials, and equipment, and contributing to the development of complete proposal packages in accordance with RFP specifications. The Estimator will review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to identify technical, contractual, and commercial issues, scope gaps, assumptions, exclusions, and potential risks, communicating these to relevant leadership. Key responsibilities also include leading and participating in formal bid reviews, supporting management with pricing rationale, and collaborating with Sales and Project Management throughout the proposal and change order processes. Furthermore, the Estimator is expected to maintain organized bid files, update them with actual costs for continuous improvement, and identify opportunities to enhance estimating methods and data accuracy. Developing and maintaining relationships with key vendors and subcontractors, soliciting competitive pricing, negotiating terms, and evaluating vendor performance are also integral to this position.

Requirements

Estimating techniques to include labor hour development, weight takeoffs, material takeoffs, and subcontract pricing.
Understanding of ship construction methods, sequencing, build strategies, and ship systems.
Familiarity with United States Coast Guard (USCG), American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), International Maritime Organization (IMO), and applicable regulatory requirements.
Ability to work cross-functionally with members of Sales, Project Management, Engineering, and Operations.
The ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills and attention to details.
Ability to prioritize workload to meet deadlines in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
High school diploma or equivalent.
2 – 5 years of estimating, engineering, or project management experience in the marine, shipbuilding, or heavy industrial construction environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including frequent use of pivot tables, and a good working knowledge of Microsoft Word.

Nice To Haves

5 – 10 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.
AutoCAD experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Prepare comprehensive cost estimates using historical data, labor standards, material pricing, and subcontractor inputs.
Develop estimates for new construction and project change order work.
Coordinate subcontractor and vendor pricing for labor, materials, and equipment.
Contribute to the development of comprehensive proposal packages, including cost estimation, proposal letter, and required submittals in accordance with the Request for Proposal (RFP) specifications.
Ensure all bids are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents for technical, contractual, and commercial issues.
Identify scope gaps, assumptions, exclusions, and potential risks.
Communicate concerns and recommendations to Sales, Project Management, and Estimating leadership.
Participate and lead in formal bid reviews prior to submission.
Support management with pricing rationale, assumptions, and risk drivers.
Collaborate with Sales during proposal development and clarification phases.
Support Project Management with pricing for change orders and scope adjustments.
Maintain organized bid files with sufficient cost history to support future estimates.
Update estimating files with actual costs and document variances for continuous improvement.
Identify opportunities to improve estimating methods, tools, data accuracy, and processes.
Develop and maintain relationships with key vendors and subcontractors.
Solicit competitive pricing and negotiate favorable terms when appropriate.
Evaluate vendor performance and pricing reliability over time.