Estimator, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineer

Description

POSITION TITLE: Estimator

TEAM: Planning and Cost Engineering (PACE)

REPORTS TO: Vice President – Planning and Cost Engineering

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Salary, Exempt

LOCATION: Headquarters (On-Site)

At the heart of Gable lies a passion that transcends the conventional. We’re more than just creators of visual communications; we’re experts at creating experiences. We believe that every brand, building, and place has a unique story to tell, and our mission is to elevate the way they are seen, experienced, and remembered.

We are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where team members can thrive and contribute to our shared success.

The Estimator plays a critical role within the Planning and Cost Engineering (PACE) team by developing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for exterior and interior static and digital signage projects.

This role analyzes drawings, specifications, and project requirements to determine material, labor, equipment, and installation costs. The Estimator collaborates closely with Sales, Concept Design, Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and outsourced manufacturing partners to support profitable bids, maintain margin integrity, and improve estimating accuracy across the organization.

The position requires strong analytical ability, technical understanding of signage fabrication and installation, and the ability to communicate cost drivers, risks, and assumptions clearly to internal stakeholders.

• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and scope documents to understand project requirements and constraints.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for materials, fabrication labor, equipment, and installation resources.
• Develop preliminary Bills of Material (BOM) and Bills of Labor (BOL) using ERP or estimating systems.
• Apply standard production methods and labor rates to develop complete project cost estimates.
• Evaluate materials, finishes, illumination technologies, and installation conditions to identify cost-effective solutions.
• Provide pricing updates for design revisions, change orders, and evolving project scopes during pre-sale and early execution phases.
• Participate in bid/no-bid discussions and project reviews by communicating cost drivers, risks, and assumptions.

• Collaborate with Supply Chain and outsourced manufacturing partners to obtain current material pricing and production capabilities.
• Coordinate with field personnel for site survey information, feasibility checks, and technical inputs that impact cost estimates.
• Work closely with Sales, Concept Design, Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure estimate alignment with fabrication and installation capabilities.
• Compile and document estimate packages, including assumptions, exclusions, cost breakdowns, and risk considerations.
• Support project teams during project kickoff and execution by clarifying estimating assumptions and responding to cost-related questions.

• Conduct post-award comparisons between estimated and actual project costs to identify variance drivers.
• Capture lessons learned to improve future estimating accuracy and cost models.
• Maintain and enhance estimating tools, cost libraries, and production rate databases in coordination with Operations and Finance.
• Identify cost drivers and recommend improvements in materials, fabrication methods, or processes that reduce cost or cycle time.
• Generate reports related to estimating activity, throughput, accuracy, and margin performance for departmental reporting and scorecards.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3+ years of estimating or cost engineering experience, preferably in signage, architectural elements, metal fabrication, construction, or related manufacturing industries.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ERP/estimating systems used for cost modeling and bid preparation.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret…