Cost Estimator - Steel Tube (Manufacturing) Sales

The Cost Estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and preparing accurate cost estimates for steel tube products, fabrication, and related services. This role involves evaluating tubular dimensions, specifications, technical drawings, material requirements, labor, production processes, and market pricing to support competitive quoting, profitability analysis, and strategic decision‑making.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Analysis

• Prepare detailed and accurate quotations for PTG’s tubular products, including raw materials, processing, fabrication, packaging, and transportation.
• Review prints, specifications, and customer requirements to determine material dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing needs.
• Apply production times, labor rates, equipment usage, and overhead allocations.
• Evaluate supplier quotes for raw steel, coatings, finishes, and outsourced services.
• Maintain cost models for various steel tube sizes, grades, and manufacturing scenarios.
• Conduct post‑project or post‑quote variance reviews by comparing estimated vs. actual costs and update cost models accordingly.
• Perform cost‑related risk assessments and develop alternative pricing scenarios based on material volatility, production constraints, or changing customer requirements.

Quoting & Pricing

• Prepare customer quotes and proposals within required timelines.
• Ensure pricing aligns with company margin guidelines, market conditions, and cost fluctuations.
• Collaborate with sales, purchasing, and operations to confirm pricing strategies and feasibility.

Data & Documentation

• Maintain a database of historical cost information, supplier pricing, and industry benchmarks.
• Track steel market price trends and adjust estimates accordingly.
• Document all estimate assumptions, data sources, and calculation methodologies.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with engineering and production teams to identify cost‑saving opportunities.
• Identify and recommend process improvements, alternative materials, or production methods that reduce cost while maintaining quality and feasibility.
• Coordinate with purchasing to validate material availability and updated pricing.
• Support management with budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis.
• Interact with Sales and customers to ensure all customer needs are met.

Qualifications

Required

• Experience in cost estimating, preferably within steel manufacturing, metal fabrication, or industrial products.
• Strong understanding of steel tube specifications such as gauge, alloy grades, tolerances, and forming processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings (CAD experience a plus).
• Proficiency in Excel or estimating software.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Accounting education.
• Bachelor’s Degree.

Preferred

• Background in manufacturing, industrial engineering, or supply chain.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems.
• Knowledge of welding methods, cutting, bending, and finishing processes related to steel tubular products.

Key Skills

• Cost analysis and modeling
• Technical drawing interpretation
• Vendor and cost negotiation
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Time management and the ability to prioritize and handle multiple quotes simultaneously

Work Environment

• Office‑based with regular collaboration with sales, purchasing, and operations departments.
• Occasional shop‑floor visits to observe processes and validate estimating assumptions.