Lead Fabrication Estimator

Lead Fabrication Estimator Mechanical Engineering & Fabrication

Southampton £40,000 £ 50,000 + benefits

I m recruiting for a long-established mechanical engineering business in Southampton that delivers complex fabrication projects across petrochemical, oil & gas, utility sectors. They re busy, growing, and need a Lead Fabrication Estimator who genuinely knows their way around drawings, RFQs, structural steelwork and fabricated assemblies.

If you enjoy the technical challenge of estimating bespoke fabrication projects and want to join a company where your work directly influences bid success and project profitability this is one to take seriously.

The Role

You ll take ownership of multidiscipline fabrication estimates for a wide range of projects, including:

• Structural steelwork, walkways, ladders, access platforms

• Modular skid frames and fabricated assemblies

• Atmospheric tanks and bespoke welding/manufacturing work

• Supporting the tendering process from initial enquiry through to submission

• Reviewing ITT/RFQ documentation, raising TQs and clarifying missing information

• Interpreting drawings/specs and producing accurate material take-offs

• Working with suppliers/sub-contractors to obtain competitive, accurate quotations

• Completing all required labour and cost breakdowns to support the bid schedule

You ll work closely with the Sales & Estimating Manager and Operations Director, playing a key role in tender analysis, risk reviews and helping to secure profitable, deliverable work.

What You ll Need

This role is ideal for someone from a mechanical engineering, fabrication, or petrochemical/oil & gas background with strong numerical and technical estimating skills.

Essential:

• Experience estimating fabrication and pipework systems projects

• Ability to read technical drawings and engineering specifications

• Confident producing material take-offs and labour calculations

• Strong communication skills and ability to engage with clients, suppliers and internal teams

• Numerically strong, highly organised and detail-driven

• Comfortable working in a busy SME environment where you genuinely influence outcomes

Desirable:

• Experience with BS EN 1090

• Understanding of standard engineering practices

• Background in structural, welded or modular fabrications

What s On Offer

• Salary £40k £45k depending on experience

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays

• Company pension & sick pay scheme

• Long-term career progression the company is growing and invests in their people

• A role where you re genuinely valued and not just another estimator in a big machine

Interested?

If you d like to discuss the role, the company culture, or whether your background fits drop me a message and I ll talk you through it. No pressure, no hard sell, just a proper conversation about whether this could be a strong next step for you.