Remote Estimator (Metal Fabrication)

Title: Estimator (Division 5 Metals)

• Location: San Diego, CA, Remote
• Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week, 5 days/week
• Time Zone: Pacific Time (US West Coast)
• Level: Junior to Mid-level

About the Company

We’re working with a specialty metal fabrication company based in San Diego, CA with a lean, hands-on team focused on high-quality custom metalwork.

Their projects include interior stair railings, custom staircases, metal railings, balcony railings, entry and driveway gates, custom fencing, miscellaneous metals, and structural steel.

The company is looking for a dedicated Estimator who can grow with the team and become a reliable part of their estimating and operations workflow.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Division 5 Metals Estimator with hands-on experience estimating architectural metals, miscellaneous metals, and structural steel for U.S. construction projects.

This role is ideal for an early-career estimator with 2+ years of relevant Division 5 estimating experience who is detail-oriented, technically capable, and comfortable reviewing plans, performing takeoffs, building estimates, and communicating with vendors and internal teams.

Responsibilities

Prepare accurate estimates for Division 5 metal fabrication projects

Perform quantity takeoffs and review project plans, drawings, and specifications

Estimate architectural metals including handrails, guardrails, stairs, fences, and gates

Estimate miscellaneous metals and structural steel

Review drawings using Bluebeam, AutoCAD, and other design software

Research material requirements, quantities, labor, and fabrication costs

Coordinate with vendors and conduct follow-up calls when needed

Work with internal teams through Construction Foreman, Outlook, and Excel

Maintain organized estimating documentation and project information

Integrate into the client's existing estimating processes and workflows

Support project planning, pricing, and cost estimation for custom metalwork

Required Skills & Experience — NON-NEGOTIABLE

2+ years of hands-on construction estimating experience specifically in Division 5 metals

Experience with architectural metals, miscellaneous metals, and/or structural steel

Proven experience estimating items such as handrails, guardrails, fences, gates, stairs, and related metalwork

Proficiency in Bluebeam and AutoCAD

Familiarity with U.S. construction market standards and codes

Strong understanding of metal fabrication processes, materials, and associated costs

Fluent written and spoken English for client, vendor, and internal communication

Ability to work full-time, dedicated to one client

Ability to work Pacific Time (U.S. West Coast) hours

Reliable and tested internet connection

Professional and dedicated home-office setup

Preferred Tools

Bluebeam

AutoCAD

PlanSwift

Revit

Excel

Construction Foreman

Outlook

Strong Candidate Signals

Candidates will stand out if they can demonstrate:

A portfolio or examples of completed Division 5 metal estimates

Extensive hands-on estimating of architectural metals

Structural steel estimating experience

Miscellaneous metals estimating experience

Strong knowledge of metal fabrication methods and material pricing

Ability to independently interpret construction drawings and specifications

Experience working with U.S.-based contractors, fabricators, or construction companies

Who Will Thrive Here

The client values quality, accuracy, accountability, and long-term partnership . They are particularly interested in early-career talent who have the right technical foundation and the potential to grow into a stronger estimating/operations role.

The ideal candidate is:

Detail-oriented and highly organized

Comfortable working independently

Proactive with vendor communication and follow-ups

Transparent and responsive in communication

Willing to learn and improve existing processes

Interested in a long-term, dedicated position

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