Project Coordinator/Junior Estimator - Structural Steel Fabrication

QB Fabrication & Welding, Inc. is a structural steel fabrication company based in Clackamas, Oregon, specializing in transmission towers, substation structures, and related utility infrastructure. Our team brings together skilled fabrication, welding, machining, and project coordination to deliver quality work for our customers. We value safety, accountability, teamwork, and practical problem-solving, and offer opportunities to develop technical skills and contribute directly to meaningful projects.

Position Summary

The Project Coordinator / Junior Estimator supports the planning, quoting, and execution of steel fabrication projects, including transmission towers and substation structures. Working under the Project Manager / Estimator, this position helps prepare estimates, research opportunities and material pricing, maintain project status information, and coordinate purchasing and project follow-up.

The role keeps information organized, identifies outstanding needs early, and moves assigned tasks through completion so quotes and active projects stay on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

1. Estimating and Quote Preparation

• Track incoming requests for quotes, bid deadlines, required documents, and outstanding questions; follow up on missing information before deadlines are at risk.
• Review drawings and specifications; assist with material takeoffs and labor, material, freight, galvanizing, and outside-processing cost estimates using established methods and guidance.
• Obtain and compare supplier and subcontractor quotes, including scope, availability, lead times, and delivery costs.
• Prepare draft quotations and supporting worksheets; document assumptions, exclusions, revisions, and unresolved questions for review before release.
• Maintain estimating records and historical pricing; assist with recurring-price reviews and comparisons of estimated versus actual project costs.

2. Project Coordination and Status Reporting

• Keep project status reports, schedules, milestones, and open-item lists current by gathering and verifying information with Production, CNC, Purchasing, Shipping, and QA/QC.
• Track drawing approvals, requests for information (RFIs), material needs, customer decisions, delivery requirements, and changes affecting cost or schedule; escalate unresolved issues promptly.
• Prepare project kickoff information, weekly foreman’s meeting agendas, notes, and action items; follow up with assigned owners and communicate overdue items.
• Assist with routine customer updates, project handoffs, and closeout documentation.
• Maintain current drawings, revisions, approvals, and correspondence in designated systems.

3. Market Research and Purchasing Support

• Research prospective customers, bid opportunities, and utility or construction projects that fit QB’s fabrication capabilities; summarize requirements, deadlines, and next steps for the Project Manager / Estimator.
• Monitor steel pricing, availability, supplier lead times, and outside-processing options; provide dated, source-supported comparisons to inform estimating and purchasing.
• Prepare purchase requests and purchase orders as assigned and within established approval controls; follow up on steel, hardware, and outside-service orders.
• Maintain clear material updates showing what is needed, ordered, expected, received, and outstanding.
• Coordinate with Shipping and QA/QC to confirm material location, allocation, and required documentation.
• Maintain vendor and outside sales representative contacts, quotes, commitments, and follow-up records; flag shortages, substitutions, delivery changes, and cost concerns.

4. Systems and Continuous Improvement

• Keep project and purchasing information accurate in company spreadsheets and TEKLA ERP.
• Help organize material test reports, welding and galvanizing certifications, and other required records with the QA/QC Director.
• Suggest practical improvements to quoting, reporting, document control, and handoffs.
• Participate in assigned system testing and training.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting projects, estimates, purchasing, or technical operations in construction, steel fabrication, manufacturing, or a related setting. Relevant education, technical training, or hands-on shop experience may substitute for direct coordination experience.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, numerical accuracy, and follow-through across multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Working proficiency in Excel, email, and document management; ability to learn estimating and ERP systems (TEKLA preferred).
• Ability to interpret basic technical drawings and specifications, or a demonstrated foundation and willingness to develop these skills.
• Clear, professional communication with customers, vendors, and shop personnel.
• Willingness to ask questions, raise concerns early, and take ownership of assigned work.

Preferred experience: Structural steel or fabrication, material takeoffs, vendor quote comparisons, purchase orders, and project document control.

Working Relationships and Authority

The Project Manager / Estimator sets priorities, provides technical guidance, and reviews estimates and major deliverables. Final pricing, scope changes, contractual commitments, and purchasing decisions follow company approval requirements.

The coordinator follows up across departments without directing shop personnel and refers competing priorities to the Project Manager / Estimator. This position has no direct reports.

Work Environment

Primarily office-based work with regular visits to fabrication and material storage areas to verify status and coordinate with the team. Requires computer and document work, communication with internal and external contacts, and safe access to designated shop areas with required protective equipment. Essential duties may be performed with reasonable accommodation.

Pay: $58,240.00 - $72,800.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person