Kraman Iron Works

Company: Kraman Iron Works

Job Type: Full-Time

About Kraman Iron Works: The History & Future of New York Steel Work

Since 1913, Kraman Iron Works has been a foundational part of the New York skyline. For over a century, we have offered premier structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication and erection throughout New York City and the surrounding tristate areas. While our history is anchored in deep industry tradition and time-tested craftsmanship, our future is driven by modern technology, complex engineering, and the next generation of construction talent.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, analytical, and highly driven Senior Estimator to lead our pre-construction bidding process. In this role, you will be responsible for securing major structural steel and miscellaneous metals contracts by delivering highly accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates. You will oversee the estimating pipeline, manage vendor relationships, and mentor junior estimating staff to ensure the continued growth of Kraman Iron Works.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Project Takeoffs: Quantify structural steel and miscellaneous metal requirements from complex architectural and structural blueprints for large-scale NYC commercial, residential, and public works projects.
• Comprehensive Cost Computation: Prepare detailed, line-item budget estimates encompassing material costs (tonnage, finishes), labor, shop fabrication time, field erection, equipment (cranes, rigging), and logistics.
• Strategic Bidding & Risk Analysis: Analyze project risks, schedule constraints, and site logistics to establish competitive pricing strategies and healthy profit margins.
• Change Order & Value Engineering: Evaluate and price major project design changes, and offer value-engineering alternatives to clients to optimize project budgets without sacrificing quality.
• Vendor & Subcontractor Negotiations: Solicit, review, and negotiate competitive quotes from material suppliers, specialty fabricators, and subcontractors.
• Mentorship & Collaboration: Review the work of Junior Estimators, provide technical guidance, and collaborate closely with Project Managers and Executive Leadership during bid hand-offs.

Qualifications & Skills

• Steel-Specific Experience (Required): Direct, hands-on experience or internship exposure in the structural steel fabrication, steel detailing, or miscellaneous metals construction industry. You must understand basic steel terminology, grades, and fabrication processes.
• Experience: 7+ years of experience estimating structural steel and miscellaneous metals fabrication/erection, specifically within the New York City market.
• Market Knowledge: Deep understanding of NYC building codes, union labor dynamics, trade jurisdictions, and local logistics.
• Software Mastery: Advanced proficiency in industry estimating software (e.g., Tekla EPM/FabSuite, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff) and advanced Excel.
• Blueprint Expertise: Expert ability to read, interpret, and cross-reference complex structural drawings, architectural plans, and project specifications.
• Communication: Exceptional negotiation and presentation skills; comfortable presenting bids directly to General Contractors, developers, and owners.
• Tech Savvy: Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Procore, and Acrobat), strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and a solid working knowledge of the Google Workspace ecosystem (including Google Sheets and Docs) for collaborative data sharing and documentation.

What We Offer

• Health & Dental Coverage: Full medical and dental insurance plans to keep you and your family covered.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Eligible to enroll after 1 year of continuous employment to help build your long-term savings.
• Profit Sharing: Access to our company profit-sharing plan (subject to a vesting schedule) after 1 year of service, allowing you to share in our mutual success.