Lead Estimator

USA is looking for a Lead Estimator for our unique business in the design-development, engineering, production, fabrication, and installation of interactive and experiential exhibits for Visitor Centers, Museums and Attractions around the world. USA is proud to be celebrating 50 years of operation.

The work is remarkably diverse and ever changing. Preferred candidates will have a multi-disciplined knowledge of exhibit fabrication including carpentry and plastics fabrication, cabinet making, graphics, model making and scenic work, electronics, machining, finishing, site work and installations. Several of our projects require integration with building MEP systems so having general construction background is a plus

Objectives:

The lead estimator works closely with the Sales Team, Production Manager, and Project Management team to develop detailed estimates, and support contract specifications. Our production department will assist in the development of estimated project costs for complex exhibit components. Candidates for this position will require a commonsense approach to estimating and be able to move the estimating process along. The best estimates include all the necessary details to support our client's project goals.

Responsibilities:

• Read scope when necessary.

• As necessary, develop an approach for fabrication.

• Use and adapt estimating spreadsheets to respond to specific client bid requirements.

• Develop detailed labor and material take-offs to detail, fabricate, and install exhibits.

• Create and maintain a database of sources and pricing of materials, vendors, exhibit specialists, and subcontractors to support estimating and fabrication.

• Evaluation and negotiations with vendors and subcontractors during the bid process.

• Use available research tools including USA historical data, industry standards, vendor input and other applicable resources to ensure estimate accuracy.

• Make detailed notations of all bid assumptions and qualifications to be included in bid documents.

• Review design detailing, fabrication, and installation estimates with in-house staff and outside suppliers as is necessary to qualify the bid.

• Must understand site, exhibit, and architectural conditions.

• Review the estimate with the sales team and the Business Operations Director to determine the final bid and support contract development.

• Candidate should have comfort attending and participating in client, architecture, design, and vendor meetings.

• Upon project awards, schedule, and lead meetings to review project scope, details, and assumptions in a handoff to the production team.

• Support fabrication with future estimating needs and clarifications to facilitate the successful completion of the project.

• Participates in post-project performance and client satisfaction reviews with the production team.

Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of fabrication and materials applications.

• Ability to read and interpret architectural and exhibit design drawings.

• Understanding of workflow from design to fabrication to installation.

• Minimum of three years' experience in estimating exhibit fabrication and installation preferred.

• Estimating custom fabrication and related projects considered.

• Strong mathematical and mechanical aptitude.

• Attention to detail and dedication to excellence.

• Ability to work on multiple projects and meet deadlines.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Adobe Acrobat.

• Must work well and respectfully, in a team environment, with coworkers, vendors and clients.

• Strong written and verbal communications skills.

• Knowledge of and experience in writing contracts is highly desirable, but not a requirement.

• Minimum of 5 years' experience.

Company Benefits:

• Dental insurance

• Disability insurance

• Health insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid Sick Time

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Vision insurance

• 401K with 4% matching funds after waiting period

Employment type: Full Time - Salary Exempt

Salary Range: $75K to $85K Annually dependent on experience

Schedule: 7:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Thursday

Location: Folcroft, PA

Position: On-site

For more information or to apply, email your resume and/or cover letter to: kmyers@buildwithusa.com