Commercial Ship Repair Estimator
Purpose Colonnas Shipyard is seeking a Commercial Ship Repair Estimator to support Shipyard Operations at our Shipyard in Norfolk, VA.
Position Summary This position plays a critical role in supporting the shipyards business development efforts by preparing accurate and competitive estimates for commercial ship repair projects. The Estimator will be responsible for developing detailed proposals that reflect the full scope of required repairs and services, ensuring all labor, materials, and subcontractor work is appropriately captured and costed.
The Estimator will also interact directly with customers, vendors, and subcontractors to clarify requirements and ensure all estimate components are in alignment with customer expectations and industry standards. Position may require work hours beyond a standard work week to support business operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Analyze specifications, drawings, and related documents to prepare detailed cost estimates for ship repair projects. • Conduct ship checks and collaborate with production engineering and project management teams to ensure accurate scope development. • Develop labor hours and material estimates for structural, mechanical, electrical, and other related repairs. • Evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes to support cost estimates. • Identify potential risks and opportunities within the estimate. • Prepare and submit comprehensive bid packages in accordance with company procedures and customer requirements. • Attend pre-bid meetings, ship checks, and post-bid debriefs as needed. • Maintain current knowledge of industry standards, practices, and material/labor costs. • Track and analyze historical cost data to improve the accuracy of future estimates. • Collaborate with project managers post-award to provide clarification on estimates and support successful project execution. • Support contract negotiation by providing detailed cost breakdowns and justifications as needed. • Ensure all estimates comply with internal standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications Must have at least 5 years of experience in estimating ship repair/marine engineering projects or at least 10 years of experience in commercial ship repair. Must have a strong understanding of ship systems, structures, and repair methodologies. Must have prior experience performing ship checks and developing job specifications. Must have excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Must be proficient with estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications. Must be familiar with commercial marine regulations.
Travel Requirements Minimal Travel: 10 or less.
Security Requirements Position requires US Citizenship.
Physical Requirements Remaining in a stationary position often standing or sitting for prolonged periods. Able to sit and work on a computer for long periods of time. Moving about accomplishing tasks or moving from one worksite to another. Communicating with others to exchange information. Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds.
Company Culture Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonnas Shipyard Inc. and its divisions are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicants race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Additionally, Colonnas Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, including:
• Medical, dental, and vision options • Company-paid disability insurance • 401k with match • Legal services • Company-paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is located in the historic Berkley section of Norfolk, Virginia and is the oldest continuous family owned and operated private shipyard in the United States. Founded in 1875 by Charles J. Colonna, a 26 year old ship carpenter with limited resources, the early business was limited to pier-side repairs. Within 2 years, Charles had added his first marine railway powered by two horses that had a lift capacity of about 40 tons, and he was off and running. Although over 140 years old, Colonna’s Shipyard continues to maintain its commitment to modernization, making the capital investments necessary for improvements in efficiency and productivity. Today, Colonna’s is a diverse industrial company with extensive capabilities in commercial and government ship repair, machining and large steel fabrication. Colonna’s strength is our employees. We employ the best and the brightest in the shipyard industry and we are proud of all that they do. From welders and ship fitters to government contract specialists, we have the right people in place to make sure the job is completed to the highest standards.