Project Estimator - Rigging

Job Summary

This Project Estimator role supports VLS sales and project teams by developing accurate, timely, and competitive estimates and proposals for theatrical rigging systems. The position focuses on reviewing RFPs, drawings, and specifications to define rigging scope, materials, labor, equipment, and project risks for performance venues, entertainment facilities, and cultural spaces. This role collaborates closely with internal teams, rigging manufacturers, theatrical consultants, engineers, fabricators, and subcontractors to support pricing strategy, pre‑bid activities, and project handoff, while contributing to continuous improvement of rigging estimation tools and processes in alignment with VLS’s commitment to customer‑driven, creative problem solving.

• Review RFPs, drawings, and specifications related to theatrical rigging systems and interpret them for equipment, structural coordination, and labor requirements.
• Develop and maintain an RFI log for each project and ensure RFIs are submitted and resolved within required project timelines.
• Identify gaps, conflicts, or ambiguities in rigging documents and collaborate with internal teams, engineers, and external partners to resolve issues or establish appropriate contingencies.
• Develop Bills of Materials and Scopes of Work for theatrical rigging systems, including detailed takeoffs of hoists, battens, tracks, controls, structural components, accessories, and installation labor.
• Account for installation sequencing, load testing, commissioning, and system turnover requirements in all estimates.
• Work with rigging manufacturers, fabricators, subcontractors, and local labor resources to source competitive and compliant pricing.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, engineering, and operations teams to align on scope, assumptions, and estimates.
• Participate with sales in pre‑bid activities including pre‑bid meetings, scope reviews, coordination calls, and RFI discussions.
• Prepare and deliver detailed cost breakdowns for equipment, fabrication, freight, installation labor, equipment rental, and services.
• Participate in sales meetings to support pricing strategies and provide risk assessments related to safety, constructability, schedule, and scope clarity.
• Deliver complete and accurate proposal documents within established timelines and deadlines.
• Provide clear and thorough handoff documentation to Project Management and Operations teams upon project award.

• Degree in technical theatre, a related field, or commensurate experience in theatrical rigging.
• ETCP Rigging certification is preferred (or will need to be attained while in VLS employ).
• Must have good communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Must have good organizational skills, mathematical aptitude, and the ability to be prompt and accurate in providing estimates for all rigging project opportunities.
• Working knowledge of both motorized and manual theatrical rigging systems, pipe grids, curtain tracks, curtain systems equipment, and theatrical rigging vendors is required.
• Experience in compiling estimates and quotes, including product pricing and labor costing, is required.
• Must be familiar with ANSI, ESTA, and OSHA regulations related to rigging systems inspection, maintenance, and installation.
• Must have excellent customer service skills (both written and verbal).
• Must be able to pass local, state, school, and federal background checks, as required by the project.
• Must be able to pass a 5‑panel drug screen.
• Proven background in cost estimation and bid coordination for theatrical rigging, stage machinery, structural systems, or specialty construction projects.
• Working knowledge of theatrical rigging systems including manual counterweight, motorized hoists, controls, and structural coordination.
• Experience supporting projects from design development through installation, testing, and commissioning.
• ETCP certification preferred.
• Strong understanding of safety‑critical systems and risk assessment within entertainment or performance environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with internal teams and external partners.
• Strong…