Estimator - Commercial Signage

The Signage Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial signage projects. This role reviews project specifications, architectural drawings, bid documents, and customer requirements to determine material, labor, equipment, subcontractor, and installation costs. The Estimator works closely with Engineering, Purchasing, and Production to ensure estimates are complete, accurate, and aligned with company capabilities and profitability goals. Overall, a sign estimator plays a crucial role in the sign manufacturing and installation process.

• Review customer specifications, architectural plans, bid packages, and project documents to assess project scope, size, materials, and design requirements.
• Interior and exterior signage
• Monument signs
• Cabinet signs
• Directional and way finding systems
• ADA signage
• Digital displays (when applicable)
• Calculate costs for materials, labor, fabrication, finishing, electrical components, freight, equipment, and installation.
• Develop project budgets based on estimated costs and client requirements.
• Solicit and evaluate pricing from vendors, subcontractors, and installers.
• Determine labor requirements and production hours based on project scope.
• Analyze project risks and identify opportunities to improve pricing and profitability.
• Coordinate with Engineering and Project Management to verify constructability and manufacturing feasibility.
• Maintain current pricing databases for materials, labor rates, and vendor costs.
• Monitor market pricing trends and supplier changes to support accurate estimating.
• Participate in bid review meetings and project handoff meetings.
• Maintain organized estimating files and documentation.
• Assist with change order pricing and project revisions.
• Stay informed about industry trends, materials, and technologies to support continuous improvement in estimating accuracy and efficiency.

• Associate's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of estimating experience
  , preferably within commercial sign manufacturing, architectural signage, fabrication, or a related industry.
• Experience interpreting architectural drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
• Knowledge of commercial sign fabrication methods and installation practices preferred.

• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to read and interpret:
• Architectural drawings
• Site plans
• Elevations
• Shop drawings
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Commercial sign manufacturing processes
• Acrylic and polycarbonate materials
• Vinyl graphics and digital printing
• Electrical sign components
• Structural requirements
• Installation equipment and field labor requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer.
• Ability to occasionally visit manufacturing facilities or project sites.
• Office environment within a manufacturing facility.
• Occasional exposure to manufacturing and fabrication areas.
• Limited travel to customer sites or project locations as needed.

• Bid turnaround time
• Gross profit margin on awarded projects
• Bid win ratio
• On-time completion of estimates
• Accuracy of project handoff documentation
• Customer and internal stakeholder satisfaction