Estimator – Boutique Shipyard/Boatyard

Marine Group Boat Works LLC•Chula Vista, CA

1d•$80,000 - $110,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Boutique Shipyard Estimator is a hands-on, client-facing role that blends technical estimating with relationship-building. Rather than working solely from behind a desk, our estimators get out on the water — touring vessels, meeting with crews and owners, and understanding the real scope of work firsthand. You'll help shape statements of work in collaboration with the customer, then translate that scope into accurate, competitive cost estimates for ship and boat repair contracts. This is a role for someone who's as comfortable walking an engine room with a captain as they are building a detailed estimate back at the office.

Requirements

Comfortable both on the water and behind a desk — this role requires going out to vessels as much as it requires detailed estimate preparation.
Highly organized, with the ability to manage numerous projects and relationships at once.
Dependable, detail-oriented, and operates with a high level of integrity.
Naturally personable — able to build rapport with crews, owners, and subcontractors alike.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related programs; able to learn additional accounting/estimating software.
Excellent attention to detail.
Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate technical subjects for a range of audiences.
Bachelor's degree in a business-related field with 3+ years of experience, or a High School Diploma with 3+ years of related experience.
Solid knowledge of ship repair procedures, terminology, requirements, and government contracts.
Working understanding of U.S. Navy Standard Items, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) rules and how they differ.
Ability to estimate commercial vessels, and large yachts.
Ability to interpret drawings, technical data, and specifications to determine material and equipment needs.
Comfortable engaging directly with crews and customers to understand project scope firsthand.
Ability to maintain confidential and meticulous records.
Self-directed, with sound judgment and the ability to take initiative as well as direction.
Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly under shifting daily priorities.
Strong team orientation and dependability.
Ability to communicate effectively in English
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule

Responsibilities

Visit vessels in person to assess scope, condition, and repair needs alongside the crew or owner — this is a boots-on-deck role, not just a desk job.
Build relationships with customers by listening to their needs, asking the right questions, and helping translate their goals into a clear, workable statement of work.
Prepare bid documents, schedules, and detailed cost estimates based on firsthand vessel assessments and project documentation.
Manage multiple proposals simultaneously while meeting stringent schedule requirements.
Ensure estimates are accurate, reasonable, and delivered on time.
Estimate labor and material costs, ensuring resources are used efficiently.
Monitor estimates against actual expenditures to catch problem areas early and manage risk.
Qualify vendors and confirm they meet contractual requirements.
Solicit and evaluate price quotations from subcontractors, noting any exceptions.
Follow up directly with customers to clarify scope or requirements as needed — strong communication and a consultative approach are key.
Identify long-lead-time materials and flag potential schedule impacts early.
Other responsibilities and duties as assigned.