Lead Estimator
About The Position
FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform distribution operations through innovative automation and software solutions. We are seeking a Lead Estimator to support our North American Distribution & Fulfillment business by developing accurate, strategic cost estimates for complex warehouse automation projects. As the senior estimating professional on the team, you will lead estimating activities for large-scale material handling systems, collaborate across engineering and commercial teams, and provide recommendations that influence pricing strategy and project success. You will also mentor other estimators, improve estimating tools and processes, and serve as a trusted advisor on complex opportunities.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Project Management, Software Engineering, or a related technical field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Candidates without a degree should possess approximately 10+ years of progressive estimating experience supporting material handling, warehouse automation, logistics, distribution, or supply chain projects.
- 8+ years of estimating experience supporting material handling, warehouse automation, logistics, supply chain, or industrial automation projects.
- Experience estimating complex integrated systems involving technologies such as conveyors, ASRS, robotics, AMRs, AGVs, or AutoStore.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and Excel skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate across technical and commercial teams.
- Experience influencing pricing strategy, managing ambiguity, and supporting high-value proposals.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Experience mentoring technical team members.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with warehouse automation systems integrators.
- Familiarity with cost modeling, estimating databases, and proposal development.
- Knowledge of warehouse operations, distribution centers, and automated material handling systems.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development of capital budget and contract estimates for complex material handling and warehouse automation projects.
- Analyze project scope, technical requirements, and commercial objectives to develop accurate cost models.
- Collaborate with engineering, software, project management, procurement, sales, and other SMEs to develop comprehensive estimates.
- Maintain and enhance estimating tools, cost libraries, and databases.
- Analyze historical project data and develop metrics to improve estimating accuracy.
- Recommend pricing strategies and participate in executive cost and price reviews.
- Challenge project costs, schedules, and technical approaches to deliver competitive, standardized solutions.
- Mentor junior estimators and support estimating best practices across the team.
- Contribute to estimating process improvements, training initiatives, and tool development.
- Serve as the Estimation Manager's delegate when needed.
Benefits
- The base salary range for this role is $100,700 to $151,100.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
