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Big Iron Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Company Description Cowboys Big Iron is a construction-focused organization committed to delivering durable, high-quality projects for clients in Edgewood, NM and the surrounding areas. The company ...

Company Description Cowboys Big Iron is a construction-focused organization committed to delivering durable, high-quality projects for clients in Edgewood, NM and the surrounding areas. The company ...

CT, MR, X-Ray, Mammography, Nuclear Medicine, Linear Accelerators, PET-CT (Big Iron Required) The Opportunity: We are seeking an experienced Imaging Service Engineer to join our growing technical ...

Minimum 2+ years' experience servicing or installing medical imaging equipment Strong working knowledge of multi-modality imaging equipment Experience with big iron is desirable Exposure to CT, MR ...

Machine Design Engineer

Salina, KS · On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

This individual will enjoy working with and around "big iron" (we're not making little widgets) and will design components, and systems for machine chassis, powertrain, and control systems. They will ...

Machine Design Engineer

Salina, KS · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

This individual will enjoy working with and around "big iron" (we're not making little widgets) and will design components, and systems for machine chassis, powertrain, and control systems.They will ...

NY · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

This individual will enjoy working with and around "big iron" (we're not making little widgets) and will design components, and systems for machine chassis, powertrain, and control systems.They will ...

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Big Iron information

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$15

$26

$39

How much do big iron jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for big iron in the United States is $26.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a big iron?

'Big Iron' refers to large, powerful mainframe computers and the professionals who work with them. Big Iron jobs typically involve managing, maintaining, or developing software for mainframe systems used by large organizations for critical operations. Roles may include mainframe systems administrators, COBOL programmers, and data center engineers. These jobs require specialized knowledge of mainframe operating systems, programming languages, and high-availability computing environments. Big Iron professionals play a key role in ensuring reliability, security, and performance of enterprise IT infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced when maintaining and operating big iron (mainframe) systems in modern IT environments?

Maintaining and operating Big Iron, or mainframe systems, often involves integrating legacy infrastructure with newer technologies, which can be challenging due to compatibility and security concerns. Mainframe specialists may also face the task of ensuring high availability and performance while supporting complex, mission-critical applications. Additionally, the workforce for mainframe expertise is aging, so collaborating with cross-functional teams and mentoring less experienced staff is common. Staying current with ongoing updates and compliance requirements is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Systems Engineer, you need expertise in mainframe operating systems (such as IBM z/OS), strong problem-solving skills, and a background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like JCL, RACF, IBM DB2, and monitoring software is essential, along with relevant certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer. Attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining the reliability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise computing environments.

What is the difference between Big Iron vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectBig IronHeavy Equipment Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), certifications for heavy machineryOSHA training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, transportationConstruction sites, excavation, roadwork
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firms, transportationConstruction companies, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Big Iron typically refers to large trucks or heavy-duty machinery used in industries like mining and transportation, often requiring a CDL. Heavy Equipment Operators specifically operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders on construction sites. While both roles involve heavy machinery, Big Iron emphasizes large vehicles used for hauling and transport, whereas Heavy Equipment Operators focus on operating construction equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right opportunities in the heavy machinery industry.

More about Big Iron jobs

What cities are hiring for Big Iron jobs?

Cities with the most Big Iron job openings:

What states have the most Big Iron jobs?

States with the most job openings for Big Iron jobs include:

Infographic showing various Big Iron job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,689 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Construction Estimator

Cowboys big iron services

Edgewood, NM • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Keep the Projects Profitable and Precise: Join Cowboys Big Iron Services, LLC as a Construction Estimator!


Job Title: Construction Estimator

Company Name: Cowboys Big Iron Services, LLC

Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 Annually plus Performance Bonuses

Industry: Civil Construction, Industrial Sitework, and Government Utility Projects

Location: On-Site in Edgewood, NM


Job Overview:

Cowboys Big Iron Services, LLC is seeking a detail-oriented, dependable, and experienced Construction Estimator to join our team in Edgewood, NM. This role is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for civil construction, industrial sitework, and utility projects. The Construction Estimator will review plans and specifications, perform quantity take-offs, analyze labor and material costs, and help develop bids that support profitable project execution. We are looking for someone who can work closely with leadership, field teams, vendors, and subcontractors to provide reliable project pricing and support efficient preconstruction planning in a fast-paced construction environment.


Who We Are:

Cowboys Big Iron Services, LLC is a premier name in civil construction and industrial sitework, known for taking on demanding projects with grit, accountability, and speed. Public company and job-listing references connect the business to New Mexico construction work, including asphalt, equipment, and field-based operations. Our team values hard work, loyalty, and a no-excuses mindset, and we provide a unique career opportunity for professionals who want to be part of a lean, high-performing operation.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Review drawings, specifications, and bid documents to prepare detailed and accurate project estimates.
  • Perform quantity take-offs and develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost projections.
  • Solicit and evaluate pricing from suppliers and subcontractors to ensure competitive and complete bids.
  • Prepare bid proposals, budgets, and cost summaries for management review and client submission.
  • Track estimate assumptions, clarifications, exclusions, and scope details with clear documentation.
  • Collaborate with project managers, field teams, and leadership to align estimating with project execution goals.
  • Monitor market pricing, cost trends, and actual job costs to improve future estimates and support cost control.
  • Assist with value engineering options and alternative pricing scenarios when needed.
  • Maintain organized estimating files, bid records, and supporting documentation with accuracy and confidentiality.


Qualifications:

  • Experience in construction estimating, project costing, or preconstruction support.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and construction documents.
  • Proficiency in quantity take-offs, budgeting, and cost analysis.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
  • High attention to detail, numeric accuracy, and problem-solving ability.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel; experience with estimating software is preferred.


Preferred Experience:

  • Background in civil construction, utility work, paving, sitework, or government projects.
  • Experience working with subcontractors, vendor pricing, and bid solicitation processes.
  • Knowledge of construction methods, equipment usage, and material pricing in NM markets.
  • Technical training or a degree in construction management or a related field is a plus.


Benefits & Perks:

✅ Competitive Pay Based on Experience

✅ Paid Time Off (Holidays, Vacation, Sick Days)

✅ Paid Parental Leave (Maternity/Paternity)

✅ Career Growth Opportunities

✅ Tech Package for Digital Communication and Workflow Support


Work Schedule:

Full-time, Monday to Friday (additional hours as needed)


Work Location:

On-Site – Edgewood, NM


Cowboys Big Iron Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.