Estimator

Description Elevation3D is seeking a detail-oriented, motivated Tradeshow Estimator to join our team. This position plays a critical role in developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive estimates for custom trade show exhibits, rental exhibits, and experiential environments.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of fabrication methods, materials, and production processes, along with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. This individual will collaborate closely with our Design, Sales, Account Management, and Operations teams to ensure projects are accurately estimated and positioned for successful execution.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Design, Sales, and Account Management teams to understand project requirements, specifications, budgets, and timelines.
• Prepare detailed and accurate estimates for custom fabrication, rental exhibits, graphics, flooring, lighting, and other exhibit components.
• Review design concepts, drawings, and project specifications to identify materials, construction methods, labor requirements, and potential cost considerations.
• Obtain and evaluate vendor and subcontractor pricing for outsourced materials, services, and specialty components.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, value engineering, and efficient fabrication methods without compromising quality.
• Review project contracts and estimates to verify accuracy, completeness, and alignment with the approved scope of work.
• Coordinate with Design and Sales to ensure rental inventory requirements and reservations are accurate and complete.
• Maintain and update material costs, vendor pricing, and estimating data within company systems.
• Participate in Project Launch meetings and collaborate with CAD, Project Management, and Production teams to ensure a smooth transition from estimating to execution.
• Participate in Cost Tracker, workload capacity, and other operational meetings as needed.
• Assist with maintaining accurate rental component information and pricing within the company's estimating platform.
• Utilize company estimating software, including Ellie, and emerging AI-assisted estimating tools to improve efficiency, consistency, and accuracy.
• Identify potential project risks, missing information, and scope discrepancies early in the estimating process.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures, standards, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Previous estimating experience in the trade show, exhibit fabrication, custom millwork, cabinetry, construction, or related industry preferred.
• Understanding of fabrication processes, construction materials, labor requirements, and production methods.
• Ability to interpret design concepts, technical drawings, and project specifications.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and organization.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting demanding deadlines.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and capable of working independently or as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work additional hours during peak production periods when necessary.
• Willingness to learn new technologies, software platforms, and AI-assisted estimating tools.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with estimating software, ERP systems, or project management platforms preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings and construction documentation.
• Familiarity with trade show exhibit systems, fabrication materials, graphics, lighting, and flooring preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable working with technology and adapting to evolving estimating processes.

What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who takes pride in accuracy, works well with others, and understands the importance of meeting deadlines. Successful estimators at Elevation3D are proactive problem-solvers who ask the right questions, identify potential issues before they become problems, and help our teams deliver exceptional results for our clients. Experience in the trade show industry is valuable, but we also welcome candidates with strong estimating and fabrication backgrounds in related industries who are eager to learn and grow with our team.

Please note that as part of our hiring process, all final candidates will be required to complete a comprehensive background check. This may include, but is not limited to, verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information to ensure suitability for the role.