Estimator, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineer
Job in
Minneapolis, Anoka County, Minnesota, 55433, USA
Listed on 2026-06-27
Listing for:
Actalent
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-06-27
Job specializations:
-
Engineering
Manufacturing Engineer, Estimator, Mechanical Engineer, Quality Engineering
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Job Title:
Estimator
Job Description
The Estimator plays a critical role in supporting the sales and engineering teams by developing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for the fabrication of custom projects, with a focus on pressure vessels and heavy fabrication work. This position requires a strong understanding of fabrication processes, the ability to read and interpret blueprint drawings, and solid knowledge of geometry and trigonometry.
Working closely with cross-functional teams, the Estimator ensures that proposals are technically sound, financially viable, and aligned with the organization's capabilities and strategic goals while meeting material specifications, regulatory standards, and customer requirements.
Responsibilities
+ Develop accurate and detailed cost estimates for the fabrication of custom projects, particularly pressure vessels and heavy fabrication work.
+ Prepare and maintain bills of materials (BOMs) to support estimating activities and project proposals.
+ Review and interpret blueprint drawings, specifications, and technical documents to determine project scope, materials, and labor requirements.
+ Analyze material specifications, fabrication methods, and process requirements to ensure estimates are realistic and competitive.
+ Apply knowledge of geometry and trigonometry to calculate dimensions, material quantities, and fabrication details.
+ Incorporate relevant regulatory standards and codes (such as ASME, API, and related standards) into the estimating process to ensure compliance.
+ Collaborate with sales and engineering teams to develop proposals that are technically sound and aligned with company capabilities and strategic objectives.
+ Use estimating software tools, including Compress and Excel-based applications, to prepare, document, and refine cost estimates.
+ Support the development of competitive bids and proposals by providing clear, well-documented cost breakdowns and assumptions.
+ Work closely with other team members in a small estimating group to share knowledge, refine processes, and continuously improve estimating accuracy.
+ Adjust estimates as needed based on feedback, design changes, or updated customer requirements.
+ Contribute to internal discussions on project feasibility and pricing strategies based on estimating insights.
Essential Skills
+ Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
+ At least 3 years of estimating experience in heavy fabrication, pressure vessels, or industrial manufacturing.
+ Proficiency in developing and managing bills of materials (BOMs) for fabrication projects.
+ Ability to read, interpret, and analyze blueprint drawings and technical specifications.
+ Strong understanding of welding, rolling, machining, and finishing processes used in fabrication.
+ Proficiency with estimating software tools, including Compress and Excel-based applications.
+ Familiarity with ASME, API, and other relevant codes and standards applicable to pressure vessels and heavy fabrication.
+ Solid knowledge of geometry and trigonometry as applied to fabrication and estimating tasks.
+ Strong attention to detail and accuracy when preparing cost estimates and BOMs.
+ Ability to collaborate effectively with sales, engineering, and shop personnel.
+ Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate project requirements and cost drivers.
Additional
Skills & Qualifications
+ Experience estimating projects involving pressure vessels, heavy fabrication, or industrial manufacturing environments.
+ Experience or coursework in engineering disciplines related to fabrication, mechanical design, or industrial processes.
+ Experience using AutoCAD or similar tools to review or reference drawings in support of estimating.
+ Ability to learn quickly from experienced team members and adapt to evolving project requirements.
+ Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly document and explain estimates and assumptions.
+ Organizational skills to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced project environment.
Work Environment
This position focuses on preparing BOMs and estimating the cost of pressure vessels and other heavy fabrication projects within a modest fabrication shop. The Estimator works as part of a small, close-knit team of two, providing opportunities for direct mentorship, collaboration, and shared learning as workload increases. The environment blends office-based estimating work, using software tools such as Compress and Excel, with frequent interaction with engineering, sales, and shop personnel to understand fabrication methods and constraints.
The shop setting supports hands-on exposure to welding, rolling, machining, and finishing processes, enabling the Estimator to align estimates with real-world production practices.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Coon Rapids, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $36.00/hr.
Eligibility…
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