Mechanical Estimator

Steelial Construction & Metal Fabrication is seeking an experienced Industrial Construction Estimator with strong knowledge of mechanical systems, process equipment, piping, and structural components used in the food processing industry .

This role requires accuracy, industry expertise, and the ability to analyze complex drawings and project specifications to produce competitive bids, estimates, and proposals. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience estimating food‑grade mechanical and industrial construction projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for mechanical, structural, and industrial construction projects.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, equipment specs, and fabrication requirements.
• Estimate costs for labor, materials, equipment, fabrication, subcontractors, and installation.
• Develop complete bid packages , proposals, and supporting documentation.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, draftsmen, and leadership throughout the bid process.
• Conduct site visits to gather necessary measurement and installation data.
• Evaluate RFQs, scope changes, alternates, and value‑engineering opportunities.
• Track project budgets and assist with post‑bid analysis.
• Maintain strong vendor and subcontractor relationships.

Required Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in industrial or mechanical construction estimating
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Mechanical systems
  • Food‑processing equipment
  • Stainless‑steel and sanitary fabrication requirements
  • Process layouts, piping, and material handling systems
• Ability to read engineering drawings, process flow diagrams, and mechanical plans
• Experience estimating steel fabrication, equipment installation, platforms, catwalks, piping, conveyors , or similar systems
• Strong math, analytical, and organizational skills
• Proficiency with estimating software or spreadsheet‑based estimating tools
• Ability to work under deadlines and manage multiple bids at once

Preferred Skills (Not Required):

• Experience in construction management , project planning, or scheduling.
• Knowledge of food‑industry standards (sanitary design, washdown, USDA/3‑A considerations).
• Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor or AutoCAD for basic drawing review.
• Field experience installing mechanical or industrial systems.
• Experience with ASME, AWS, or other relevant codes.

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Opportunities for growth in a rapidly expanding industrial sector.
• Supportive team environment with strong collaboration between engineering and field crews.
• Exposure to diverse projects within mechanical, fabrication, and food‑processing industries.
• Company paid benefits for the employee.
• 401K with a Company match.

In 1997, Steelial was established because our founder, Larry A. Hedrick Jr., saw an opportunity. After noticing a need in the food production industry, he decided he wanted to make an impact on food production manufacturing by offering high-quality services, engineering, and manufacturing. After seeing success in this field, he decided to expand to mechanical installation, process engineering, and project engineering and management.