Job Description
Position Summary
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for aluminum and glass systems, including curtain wall, window wall, storefront, glazing, unitized systems, and specialty façades. This role evaluates project specifications, blueprints, and bid documents to develop complete take-offs, pricing, and proposals that support the company's sales and project management teams.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Take-Offs
Review architectural drawings, specifications, addendums, and RFIs to understand project scope.
Perform detailed quantity take-offs for aluminum framing, glass, anchors, hardware, brackets, and related components.
Calculate material, labor, equipment, and subcontractor costs based on project requirements.
Assess fabrication complexity, field installation conditions, and design assumptions to reflect true project cost.
Pricing & Proposal Development
Prepare accurate budget, tender, and design-assist estimates.
Develop complete bid packages, including scope letters, inclusions/exclusions, alternates, and clarifications.
Analyze vendor and supplier quotes (glass, aluminum extrusion, hardware, coatings, etc.) for accuracy and compliance.
Ensure estimates meet company margin targets and competitive market expectations.
Project Coordination
Participate in pre-bid meetings, site visits, and design reviews as required.
Collaborate with engineering, drafting, project management, and procurement to validate assumptions.
Support project handoff by providing final estimate breakdowns, take-offs, and pricing rationale.
Risk Analysis
Identify design gaps, constructability challenges, and potential cost impacts.
Recommend value-engineering options to improve material efficiency or reduce cost without compromising performance.
Track market pricing trends (aluminum, glass, hardware) to maintain competitive and accurate estimates.
Software & Tools
Use estimating software such as Bluebeam, AutoCAD (for measurement references), and industry-specific take-off tools.
Maintain internal costing databases and unit price libraries.
Prepare reporting in Excel or ERP/estimating platforms.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Diploma or degree in Construction Technology, Architectural Technology, Engineering, or related field.
2–5 years estimating experience in the aluminum, glass, or building envelope industry (curtain wall, glazing, storefront, or façade preferred).
Experience reading architectural/structural drawings and specification divisions 05, 08, 09.
Skills
Strong understanding of glazing systems, extrusions, fabrication processes, and installation methods.
Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
Strong proficiency with MS Excel, Bluebeam, and measurement tools.
Ability to multitask and meet deadlines in a fast-paced bid environment.
Clear written and verbal communication.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
Competencies
Technical Accuracy – ensures estimates are precise and complete.
Problem Solving – identifies risks, design issues, and cost impacts early.
Team Collaboration – works effectively with sales, engineering, and PM teams.
Time Management – manages multiple tenders with competing deadlines.
Business Awareness – understands market pricing and competitive positioning.
Working Conditions
Office environment with occasional visits to job sites, fabrication facilities, or supplier locations.
Fast-paced tender cycles with tight bid deadlines.
