Estimator

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and timely cost estimates for exhibit fabrication projects, including custom builds, rental exhibits, installation and dismantling (I&D), shipping, and logistics. This role works closely with Sales, Design, Purchasing, and Production to evaluate project requirements, interpret technical drawings, determine material and labor costs, and develop competitive pricing.

The ideal candidate has prior estimating experience and a solid understanding of exhibit fabrication or a related field, such as carpentry, architecture, or custom manufacturing. This position requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple estimates under tight deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and quotations using floor plans, renderings, technical drawings, project specifications, and input from Sales and Design.
• Calculate project costs for custom-built and rental exhibits, including materials, labor, fabrication, installation, dismantling, shipping, and logistics.
• Analyze project scope, production methods, timelines, and resource requirements to ensure accurate and comprehensive pricing.
• Present estimated project costs to leadership and provide supporting documentation as needed.
• Coordinate with Purchasing and external vendors to verify current material, subcontractor, and service pricing.
• Identify alternative materials, fabrication methods, and vendors to improve cost efficiency, quality, and turnaround times.
• Provide technical guidance to Sales, Design, and Production teams regarding fabrication feasibility, construction methods, and material selection.
• Interpret technical drawings and convert measurements between metric and U.S. standard units.
• Monitor project costs against estimates and contractual requirements to identify potential overruns or discrepancies.
• Review completed projects to evaluate cost variances and recommend improvements to estimating practices and pricing strategies.
• Manage multiple estimating requests simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.
• Communicate potential scope gaps, pricing discrepancies, and scheduling risks to relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain organized estimating records, cost breakdowns, revisions, and supporting documentation.
• Stay informed about exhibit fabrication techniques, materials, construction methods, and industry trends.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in exhibit fabrication or a related industry, with an understanding of fabrication, detailing, installation and dismantling (I&D), shipping, and logistics.
• Previous estimating experience is required.
• Candidates with backgrounds in design, architecture, carpentry, or fabrication may be considered based on relevant experience.
• Ability to read and interpret floor plans, renderings, technical drawings, and project specifications.
• Strong understanding of materials, labor costing, fabrication processes, and project pricing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including the ability to organize and analyze cost data.
• Ability to convert measurements between metric and U.S. standard units.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and analytical abilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with Sales, Design, Purchasing, and Production teams.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and deliver accurate estimates within tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with system metal, aluminum extrusions, and custom exhibit construction.
• Experience using ExhibitForce or similar estimating and project management software.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Compensation And Benefits The company offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• Employer-provided life and AD&D insurance
• Employer-provided short-term disability coverage
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Vacation, PTO, and sick time
• Paid holidays

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and welcomes qualified applicants from all backgrounds.