Project Estimator for Custom Fabrication

Job Title: Estimator – Custom Metal Fabrication

Location: Delta, Colorado (On-site preferred, remote applicants will be considered and some travel would be required
Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role:
Doughty Steel and Machine (DSM), a custom fabrication shop with over 80 years of experience, is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Estimator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for reviewing RFQs, interpreting drawings and specifications, calculating materials and labor, and preparing precise, profitable quotes. Your focus will be responding to leads generated from online RFQ platforms, inbound customer inquiries, and repeat customers. You will support the General Manager and fabrication leads to meet goals for margin and job volume.

This position is ideal for someone with fabrication or manufacturing experience who enjoys solving technical problems, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and values accuracy and clarity in project planning.

Responsibilities:

• Review RFQs from online platforms and email submissions
• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and written specifications to develop accurate quotes
• Calculate material quantities, labor hours, machining time, and subcontracted work
• Request vendor quotes for outside services and materials when needed
• Create formal bid proposals with detailed scope, pricing, and timelines
• Collaborate with shop foremen and purchasing to validate production costs
• Maintain and update estimating tools, templates, and historical pricing data
• Track open quotes, prioritize deadlines, and communicate with internal teams
• Identify jobs that align with DSM’s strengths in quick-turn, custom, and mid-scale projects

Qualifications:

• Experience in estimating for fabrication, machining, welding, or manufacturing projects
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and prints
• Familiarity with steel, aluminum, and related materials
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills
• Proficiency with Excel, estimating software, and CAD viewer tools
• Excellent attention to detail and deadline-driven mindset
• Strong collaboration and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using RFQ platforms (e.g., MFG.com, Thomasnet, Job Shops, etc.)
• Hands-on fabrication or shop floor experience
• Knowledge of ERP or job management systems
• Experience with Department of Defense bidding processes and conditions
• Experience in quoting multi-process jobs (e.g., welding machining)

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive hourly wage or salary depending on experience
• Overtime opportunities for high-volume periods
• Paid time off and holiday schedule
• Stable role with long-term growth opportunities at a respected and growing company
• Bonus eligible for achieving KPIs like Quote volume, Gross margin % of awarded jobs and On-time quote turnaround

Why Join DSM?

• Be part of a well-established fabrication business with a reputation for precision and reliability
• Work with a team that values technical skill, autonomy, and mutual respect
• Help shape the quoting process and play a direct role in profitable job selection
• Enjoy a predictable schedule with minimal customer-facing responsibilities

To Apply: Please submit a resume detailing relevant estimating or fabrication experience. Example bid packages, portfolios, or project summaries are highly encouraged.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $22.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Compensation Package:

• Bonus opportunities

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Describe your level of familiarity with shop drawings, CAD models, or technical specification packages.
• Have you had a role before that involved creating bids, formal estimates, or something similar for custom parts or fabricated products?

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Delta, CO 81416

Salary : $22 - $35