Lead Estimator / Fabrication Shop Manager

Lead Estimator / Fabrication Shop Manager
Location: Goose Creek, SC

Build More Than Estimates. Lead an Operation.

This is more than an estimating position. It is an opportunity to lead an established fabrication operation while helping position it for continued growth.

The successful candidate will oversee estimating, project planning, and shop operations.  This position offers the opportunity to improve processes, develop the team, and make a lasting impact on the future of the operation.

This position is well suited for an experienced fabrication leader who enjoys estimating projects, developing people, improving shop operations, and delivering quality work safely and on schedule.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate project estimates from RFQs through Purchase Order.
• Review drawings, specifications, and engineering packages for completeness and constructability.
• Manage workflows, work-in-progress (WIP), production schedules, and project budgets.
• Assign and coordinate work for welders and fabricators to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
• Coordinate fabrication activities across production, maintenance, logistics, and other departments.
• Manage steel, material, and parts inventory.
• Coordinate trucking and material deliveries.
• Promote a strong culture of safety and ensure compliance with company safety policies and OSHA standards.
• Ensure employees are properly trained on equipment and safe operating procedures.
• Oversee preventative maintenance programs for shop equipment.
• Monitor work quality, equipment, and shop operations to ensure safety, productivity, and quality standards are achieved.
• Participate in recruiting, hiring, training, mentoring, and developing shop personnel.
• Evaluate employee performance and recommend compensation and development opportunities.
• Lead by example as a working manager, assisting with fabrication and production activities when necessary.
• Perform other duties as required to support shop operations.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in steel fabrication, mechanical fabrication, shop operations, or industrial manufacturing.
• Previous estimating experience within a fabrication or mechanical contracting environment.
• Previous supervisory or management experience in a fabrication or manufacturing operation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, and engineering documents.
• Strong knowledge of welding, fabrication, machining, and metal processing operations.
• Experience with CNC plasma, laser, waterjet, or similar fabrication equipment is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and maintaining a strong safety culture.
• Experience leading safety initiatives, employee training, and OSHA compliance programs.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; experience with estimating software, CAD viewers, or CNC software is beneficial.
• Engineering degree is preferred but not required.

Preferred Industry Background
Experience in one or more of the following industries is highly preferred:

• Structural Steel Fabrication
• Industrial Fabrication
• Mechanical Contracting
• Heavy Industrial Manufacturing
• Process Equipment Fabrication
• Custom Metal Fabrication
• Miscellaneous Metals

What You'll Find Here

• Leadership opportunity with an established fabrication operation.
• Direct influence on estimating, shop operations, and production.
• Opportunity to improve processes and help guide the future growth of the business.
• Support will be provided during the transition to ensure a successful handoff.
• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.