Lead, Esimator

Apogee•Monett, MO

About The Position

The Lead Estimator provides cost estimates for products and projects to distributors, ensuring estimates are timely and consistent with company bidding policy and profit goals. The role handles architectural takeoffs, material and labor bids, specification and drawing interpretation, and customer communication. It also coordinates quote requests across the estimating team, balances workload and deadlines, mentors colleagues, and supports the Estimating Manager with project cost inputs. The Lead Estimator works with customers, sales representatives, and internal teams to develop accurate quotations, coordinate engineering calculations and system selection for pricing, and support projects through order entry, engineering review, job changes, and kick-off meetings. The position is primarily office-based, with occasional manufacturing-floor visits requiring proper PPE and occasional travel to other sites or corporate locations.

Requirements

At least five years of estimating experience, including demonstrated success bidding complex projects.
Excellent understanding of EFCO Brand Systems products and processes.
Detail-oriented, with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication, organizational, listening, interpersonal, and customer-service skills.
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with AutoCAD (2D and 3D), Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Speed and efficiency in 2D AutoCAD or general data entry.
Ability to use ERP software.
Ability to interpret architectural plans and specifications.
Demonstrated core values.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment.
Design capabilities, technical product troubleshooting, and data analysis skills.
Ability to lift and/or move 10 pounds.
Proper PPE must be worn during manufacturing-floor visits.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Previous experience providing technical leadership, mentoring, training, or coordinating the work of others.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and schedule quote requests across the estimating team, balancing workload, priorities, and due dates.
Mentor estimating team members as they gain bidding experience.
Provide the Estimating Manager with support regarding engineering hours, freight, labor, and related items.
Interpret specifications, architectural drawings, and takeoff information received through approved communication channels.
Contact representatives or distributors with questions about specifications.
Work with Purchasing, Structural Engineering, Sales, Pre-bid Engineering, and Engineering.
Determine quantities of materials, labor, and buyout items, and prepare complete takeoffs showing the scope of work.
Coordinate engineering calculations and select systems for pricing.
Prepare accurate, timely prices and quotations based on customer needs.
Communicate with customers and sales representatives to prepare comprehensive quotations; follow up to secure orders and confirm quotes.
Alter or negotiate products or pricing when necessary under the Estimating Manager’s direction.
Support engineering by reviewing designs, providing information for detailing, adjusting prices for job changes, and confirming that customers receive what was bid.
Process order-entry forms.
Present suggestions, recommendations, or cost-saving explanations to customers when appropriate.
Prepare concise job summary sheets for internal customers.
Back up field sales by answering architectural questions when representatives are absent.
Conduct accurate and timely job kick-off meetings.
Build and maintain collaborative relationships with customers and internal partners.
Follow established safety policies and procedures, including wearing proper PPE on the manufacturing floor.
Follow company policies, Critical Business Practices, standards, and standard operating procedures.
Support Six Sigma, Lean, and continuous improvement processes.
Perform responsibilities consistently with the company’s Core Values.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package for employees and dependents, including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
Incentive plans.
401(k) with employer contribution and match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match.
Paid time off, including vacation and sick time.
Paid holidays.
Tuition reimbursement program.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Wellness program.
Training and career progression.