Estimator, Engineering, Mechanical Engineer

Job Posting:
Estimator

Location:

Richland, WA or Idaho Falls,
Company:
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services
Salary:
Competitive, based on experience ($75,000 – $120,000)

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with a strong track record of delivering comprehensive solutions in engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services. We are known for successfully executing complex, fixed-price design/build/test projects across both federal and commercial sectors.

With a collaborative and experienced team, we are committed to providing practical, client-focused solutions tailored to a wide range of challenges. We prioritize technical precision, safety, and quality in everything we do. As part of our continued growth, we have expanded operations to Idaho Falls, —broadening our capabilities while maintaining the reputation for reliability and integrity that sets us apart.

Columbia Energy offers a technically focused, hands‑on environment where estimators work closely with engineering, fabrication, and project management to develop accurate, competitive bids that directly influence project success. Our structure allows you to stay involved beyond the estimate—contributing to production strategy, cost control, and compliance with quality requirements.

If you're looking for a role where your estimating work directly supports the company’s ability to win and deliver complex fabrication projects with demanding quality standards, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

We are seeking a driven and detail‑oriented Estimator with a strong background in industrial metal fabrication to join our growing team. This role is ideal for someone who combines analytical precision with real‑world shop awareness—someone who can interpret complex technical drawings, understand fabrication constraints, and develop accurate, buildable estimates that hold up through execution.

The ideal candidate will also bring experience supporting or estimating projects governed by NQA-1, ASME code, or other regulated quality standards, and understand how these requirements impact cost structure, vendor qualifications, and documentation.

As an Estimator at Columbia Energy, you’ll be responsible for developing cost estimates for complex fabrication and machining projects—often with critical quality and regulatory compliance components. You’ll work closely with engineers, project managers, shop leads, and vendors to ensure every estimate is comprehensive, competitive, and grounded in real production capability. From bid strategy to vendor coordination to risk assessment, you’ll play an essential role throughout the project lifecycle.

This is a full‑time, on‑site role based in either Richland, WA or Idaho Falls, .

• Analyze drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to develop detailed cost estimates for fabrication, machining, and assembly work
• Generate labor and material takeoffs using a strong understanding of metalworking, welding, and machining processes
• Collaborate with internal teams—engineering, QA, and fabrication—to validate scope, assess feasibility, and define schedules
• Identify scope gaps and risks early, offering solutions or contingencies in the estimating phase
• Maintain and grow a reliable vendor and subcontractor network; solicit bids, compare quotes, and negotiate pricing
• Work with Project Managers to develop proposal packages and support contract reviews and handoffs
• Assist in drafting technical proposal documents, schedules, and pricing narratives
• Provide clear breakdowns and justifications for costs to leadership and clients
• Prepare pricing for change orders, contract modifications, or value‑engineering options
• Document key assumptions and maintain organized records of estimates, revisions, and supporting data
• Participate in post‑project reviews and process improvements for estimating workflows

• 5+ years of experience in estimating, project planning, or project engineering roles—ideally within…