Lead, Esimator

Apogee Enterprises, Inc.•Monett, MO

About The Position

The Lead Estimator performs at a high level and is capable of bidding complex window and curtainwall systems. The role provides timely cost estimates to distributors while ensuring bids align with company policy and desired profit results. It involves architectural takeoffs, material and labor bidding, interpretation of project information, and customer interaction. The Lead Estimator coordinates quote requests across the estimating team, balancing workload, priorities, and due dates, and mentors colleagues as they gain bidding experience. The role supports the Manager, Estimating with estimating inputs such as engineering hours, freight, and labor. It works closely with customers, distributors, sales representatives, purchasing, structural engineering, pre-bid engineering, and engineering to prepare accurate, comprehensive quotations and support projects through order entry, engineering, and job kickoff. The position is primarily office-based, with occasional visits to the manufacturing floor, where proper PPE is required, and occasional travel to other sites or corporate locations. The employee must be able to lift and/or move 10 pounds.

Requirements

Minimum five years of estimating experience, including demonstrated success bidding complex projects.
Excellent understanding of EFCO Brand Systems products and processes.
Detail-oriented, with excellent 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, and ERP software.
Speed and efficiency in 2D AutoCAD or general data entry skills.
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.
Must be able to lift and/or move 10 pounds.

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

Bid complex window and curtainwall systems and provide timely cost estimates to distributors consistent with company bidding policy and desired profit results.
Coordinate and schedule quote requests across the estimating team, balancing workload, priorities, and due dates.
Mentor others in the department as they gain bidding experience.
Support the Manager, Estimating with estimating inputs such as engineering hours, freight, and labor.
Interpret specifications, architectural drawings, and takeoff information received through approved communication channels; contact representatives or distributors with specification questions.
Work with Purchasing, Structural Engineering, Sales, Pre-bid Engineering, and Engineering.
Determine accurate quantities of material, labor, and buyout items, and prepare clear takeoffs showing the company's scope of work.
Coordinate engineering calculations and select system designs for pricing.
Prepare accurate, timely prices and quotes according to customer needs; communicate with customers and sales representatives to ensure 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 needed for detailing, adjusting prices for job changes, and communicating to ensure the customer receives what was bid.
Process order entry forms, provide customers with suggestions or cost-saving explanations as appropriate, and prepare concise Job Summary sheets for internal customers.
Back up field sales by answering architectural questions during their absences.
Conduct accurate and timely job kickoff meetings.
Build and maintain professional, collaborative relationships with customers and internal partners.
Follow established safety policies and procedures, and comply with company policies, Critical Business Practices, standards, and Standard Operating Procedures.
Support Six Sigma, Lean, and continuous improvement processes.
Perform job 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.