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Structural Steel Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SME Steel

Structural Steel Estimator

West Jordan, UT · On-site

... in structural steel or Associates degree in construction management, Engineering, Business, or a related field (preferred). Experience in estimating/detailing/checking in structural/miscellaneous ...

WSI Talent

Steel Estimator

Holland, MI · On-site

Prepare detailed material takeoffs for structural steel, miscellaneous metals, joists, and decking. Analyze architectural, structural, and mechanical drawings to develop accurate project estimates.

Trinity Search Group

Steel Estimator

Dallas, TX

The role involves preparing estimates for commercial projects, including structural and ornamental steel scopes exceeding $1 million. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys analyzing drawings ...

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Structural Steel Estimator information

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$35K

$71.3K

$101K

How much do structural steel estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural steel estimator in the United States is $71,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a structural steel estimator?

To become a structural steel estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction or steel fabrication. Developing skills in reading blueprints, using estimating software, and understanding structural steel materials is essential; some professionals pursue certifications like the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) to enhance credibility.

What is a Structural Steel Estimator job?

A Structural Steel Estimator is responsible for analyzing project plans, specifications, and other documents to determine the cost of structural steel materials and labor for construction projects. They collaborate with engineers, project managers, and fabricators to create accurate cost projections, ensuring that bids are competitive and profitable. Their role involves quantity take-offs, pricing materials, assessing labor costs, and accounting for potential risks. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of industry standards, and proficiency in estimating software are key to success in this position.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Structural Steel Estimator?

As a Structural Steel Estimator, your daily tasks include reviewing architectural and structural drawings, performing detailed material take-offs, and preparing cost estimates and bid proposals for steel structures. You’ll collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, steel fabricators, and suppliers to gather accurate pricing and validate project requirements. Coordinating with the broader construction team is also essential to ensure estimates reflect current market conditions and any project-specific challenges. These responsibilities are key to ensuring competitive, precise bids that win projects while maintaining profitability and cost control.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Structural Steel Estimator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Steel Estimator, you need strong mathematical skills, an understanding of construction drawings and blueprints, and experience with steel fabrication and erection methods, often backed by a degree in construction management or engineering. Familiarity with specialized estimation software (such as Tekla, Bluebeam, or AutoCAD) and proficiency in Microsoft Excel are commonly required, along with certifications like AACE or ASPE being advantageous. Excellent attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working collaboratively and ensuring accuracy under tight deadlines. These competencies ensure estimators can deliver precise project bids, manage costs efficiently, and contribute to successful project planning and execution.

What's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of a structural steel estimator typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and geographic location. Estimators with advanced skills in estimating software and project management may earn higher wages.

How much do structural steel workers make?

Structural steel workers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and whether they hold certifications or work overtime in construction environments.

Are estimators in high demand?

Structural steel estimators are in high demand due to ongoing construction projects and infrastructure development. Their skills in reading blueprints, cost analysis, and familiarity with estimating software are highly valued in the industry, leading to strong job prospects.
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Structural Steel Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Steel Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,261 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Structural Steel Estimator

Diligent Staffing Inc

South El Monte, CA • On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Pay Range: $40 - $48 per hour

Job Type: Full-time, Direct Hire, In-person (South El Monte)

 

About the Role

Diligent Staffing Inc. is seeking an experienced Structural Steel Estimator to join a growing structural steel fabrication and erection company in South El Monte, CA. This full-time, on-site position plays a key role in preparing accurate cost estimates and competitive bids for structural steel construction projects while working closely with the owner to support the company's continued growth.


The ideal candidate has extensive experience in structural steel estimating, blueprint interpretation, quantity takeoffs, and construction estimating, with the ability to manage multiple bids, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively in a fast-paced environment.


Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare accurate cost estimates, material takeoffs, bid proposals, and supporting documentation for structural steel fabrication and erection projects
  • Review architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and bid documents to determine project scope and requirements
  • Analyze material, labor, fabrication, installation, and subcontractor costs to develop competitive pricing
  • Solicit, evaluate, and incorporate pricing from vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors
  • Identify project risks, scope gaps, value engineering opportunities, and cost-saving solutions
  • Work closely with the owner to review estimates, finalize pricing, and prepare bid submissions
  • Track bid opportunities, deadlines, and maintain organized estimating records and project documentation
  • Attend job walks and site visits as needed to evaluate project conditions and scope
  • Communicate effectively with clients, vendors, project managers, engineers, and internal teams throughout the estimating process
  • Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures and help increase bidding capacity to support company growth


Qualifications

  • 3+ years experience as a Structural Steel Estimator or in a closely related structural steel role required
  • Direct experience estimating structural steel fabrication and erection projects required
  • Ability to read/interpret structural steel blueprints, shop drawings, construction specifications required
  • Experience performing detailed quantity takeoffs, preparing accurate cost estimates, and bid proposals required
  • Strong understanding of structural steel fabrication, erection methods, construction materials, and estimating practices required
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and estimating/takeoff software (i.e. Bluebeam) required
  • Strong analytical, mathematical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to manage multiple bids, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams required
  • Experience estimating commercial, industrial, warehouse, manufacturing, or multi-story structural steel projects
  • Familiarity with construction bidding platforms, subcontractor/vendor procurement, and AISC standards


Important Note for Applicants

This position is dedicated to structural steel building construction. Candidates whose experience is primarily limited to ornamental iron, fencing, gates, railings, residential steel, or miscellaneous metals without direct structural steel estimating experience may not meet the requirements for this role.

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