Job DescriptionJob Description
Together We Build – Partnership, Innovation, Excellence, and Safety
At Kelso Industries, 3,500+ employees across 30 companies work together to deliver exceptional HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, and electrical solutions nationwide. Join us to grow your career, make an impact, and be part of a team where innovation, excellence, and safety come first.
Recruiter Notice: We respectfully ask external recruiters and staffing agencies not to submit candidates. We only accept direct applications.
Job Title: Mechanical Estimator – Pipe Fabrication, Multi-trade Modular, Structural Steel
Location: Duncan, SC or open to Hybrid remote
Job Type: Full-time
Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Mechanical Estimator responsible for preparing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for industrial pipe fabrication projects, including process piping, multi-trade modular assemblies, and associated structural steel. This role supports industrial clients across markets such as pharmaceutical, chemical, data centers, food & beverage, and advanced manufacturing.
The ideal candidate is highly skilled in model-based take-offs, understands fabrication-driven estimating, and can collaborate effectively with engineering, operations, and project teams to develop executable scopes and pricing.
Key Responsibilities:
Estimating & Preconstruction
- Prepare detailed estimates for:
- Carbon steel, stainless steel, and specialty process piping
- Multi-trade modular assemblies (pipe, structural steel, supports, equipment integration)
- Structural steel associated with pipe racks, skids, and modules
- Perform quantity take-offs using:
- Model-based take-offs from Navisworks
- Orthographic drawings
- Isometric drawings
- Develop labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor pricing aligned with fabrication and modular execution strategies
- Evaluate constructability, fabrication sequencing, and modularization opportunities during the estimating phase
Model & Drawing Review
- Navigate federated models to identify scope, extract quantities and validate model data against drawings and specifications
- Coordinate with engineering to resolve discrepancies between models, isometrics, and orthographic views
Cost Development & Risk Assessment
- Apply current market material cost data and production rates specific to shop fabrication and modular assembly
- Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes for pricing and availability
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, codes, and safety regulations
- Identify project risks, assumptions, exclusions, and clarifications
- Develop pricing narratives and scope summaries to support proposal submissions
- Participate in internal estimate reviews and handoffs to project management
Collaboration & Client Support
- Support business development and client pursuits with conceptual, budgetary, and detailed estimates
- Participate in scope alignment meetings with mechanical contractors, EPCs, and owners
- Assist in post-award estimate validation and turnover to operations
- Assist with procurement of material post-award
Qualifications & Skills:
Technical Skills
- Strong experience with:
- Model-based quantity take-offs using Navisworks
- Orthographic and isometric piping take-offs
- Solid understanding of:
- Industrial pipe fabrication processes
- Modular construction principles
- Structural steel fabrication and erection interfaces
- Familiarity with piping specifications, material grades, welding requirements, and QA/QC impacts on cost
- Proficiency in estimating software, Excel, and digital take-off tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MS Excel, Navisworks).
Experience
- 5+ years of estimating experience in:
- Pipe fabrication, mechanical contracting, or industrial construction
- Modular or prefabricated systems ()
- Experience estimating work for industrial clients such as pharma, chemical, data center, or manufacturing facilities
Professional Attributes
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills
- Ability to interpret incomplete or evolving design documents
- Strong communication skills for cross-functional and client-facing collaboration
- Practical, execution-focused mindset aligned with fabrication-driven delivery
Success Metrics
- Accuracy of estimates versus actual fabrication and modular execution costs
- Timeliness and completeness of estimate deliverables
- Quality of scope definition, assumptions, and risk identification
- Positive feedback from operations, engineering, and project teams during handoff
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Professional development and career growth opportunities.
- Paid time off and company holidays.
Why Join Kelso Industries?
Join us and be part of a team dedicated to creating efficient, sustainable, and high-performance environments that make a lasting impact across the industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors.
Here you will experience:
Growth Opportunities: Develop new skills, take on exciting challenges, and advance your career in meaningful ways.
Company Culture: You'll thrive in an environment that supports your growth, values your contributions, and makes work fulfilling and enjoyable.
Impact: Your work directly contributes to meaningful outcomes, allowing you to see the difference you make and feel a sense of purpose every day.
Competitive Compensation & Benefits: You'll be rewarded fairly for your contributions while enjoying perks that enhance your financial security, health, and overall well-being.
Kelso Industries celebrates and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in any aspect of employment based on race, , religion, , ancestry, , , and/or expression, , veteran status, , or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local employment discrimination laws where Kelso does business