Estimator

About Star:

At Star, we specialize in the custom design and manufacturing of physical experiences. Our clients’ needs range from exhibits, retail and corporate environments, and branded events. Wherever a brand lives, Star is there to make it shine.

Introduction:

We are seeking an Estimator to join our team in our Minneapolis Office. The Estimator develops cost estimates and advises on production timing for new and existing business proposals of varying complexity. The position will generate, communicate, and maintain estimates, and performance against standards. This position assists in establishing, implementing and promoting procedures and standards for estimating and proposals.

Key Responsibilities:

The Estimator is assigned to a variety of projects, and is capable of successfully contributing to projects that are particularly complex, broad in scope and/or require new materials or processes

Establish, produce and implement project budget

Establish and produce cost estimates for proposal

Produce, design and manufacture estimate

Integrate graphics, design, production and service estimates for final proposal

Establish final blended estimate and margin related to scope of project

Organize and facilitate meetings, including:

Estimated project margin and variance meetings with key Stake Holders prior to client presentation

Quality Assurance Reviews

Work with Design Engineers to ensure we can successfully build the project

Attains buy-in from Design Engineer & Production Lead Builders

Ensure effective transition process from estimating to Project Engineering

Sourcing materials and value engineering research

Lead structural integrity, value engineering and costing investigations of assigned projects prior to client presentation

Provide detailed material/specialty order list for pricing; work with Purchasing or directly with supplier to obtain pricing; determine yields

Ensure confidentiality agreements are in place with vendors

Reporting and Administration

Working with manager to establish and promote process and procedures for maintaining high standards

Provide updated reports to manager as assigned

Develop and recommend strategic pricing strategies that will position Star to win projects and fall within client budgets

Gather details required for project, partnering with Creative to understand the client, the project and essential elements

Provide technical guidance to designers, providing creative solutions to design challenges, suggesting alternate materials, construction methods, etc.

Participating in opportunity presentations, providing process, technical and costing information

Demonstrate Star’s core values in every interaction: integrity, open, honest and respectful relationships, customer intimacy, passion, entrepreneurship, and nurturing growth

Education and experience:

Extensive estimating experience in tradeshow, retail or similar industry (e.g., construction)

Strong understanding of costs, margins, and value engineering

Strong materials knowledge

Experience presenting to clients preferred

AutoCAD familiarity and proficiency with Excel

Must have proven ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally

Ability to travel up to 5%

Willingness and ability to work beyond 40 hours per week during peak periods to ensure client needs are met

Attributes:

Strong customer focus and solutions orientation

Desire and ability to operate according to Star’s core values in every interaction: integrity, open, honest and respectful relationships, customer intimacy, passion, entrepreneurship, and nurturing growth

Must possess strong attention to detail and time management skills

Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and clients

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

Ability to devise innovation solutions to design or cost challenges

Star offers a competitive salary and benefits in an engaging and collaborative work environment. If you are a star performer who thrives in a collaborative and dynamic environment, we would love to hear from you. Join our incredible team and be part of a growing organization that recognizes and rewards your talent and potential. Together, let's illuminate the path to success!

Qualified candidates committed to making a big impact in a thriving organization are encouraged to submit a resume

Star is an equal opportunity employer.