A mechanical estimator works in an industrial or construction setting to determine the total cost of a mechanical project. This individual must have a thorough understanding of the industry in which he or she works, as well as rates for machinery, manpower, delivery, and other factors that can affect a job’s cost. The mechanical estimator may work for a construction company or another industrial firm, and he or she will prepare an estimate for a specific job before submitting it to the customer as a project bid.
In some cases, the mechanical estimator is only one member of a project’s estimation team. He or she will only be responsible for calculating costs related to mechanical applications, whereas another type of estimator will be responsible for other aspects of the job, such as construction costs, labor costs, delivery, and so on. Larger projects or exceptionally complex construction or mechanical applications are more likely to require this. A head estimator is in charge of supervising the work of the mechanical estimator as well as any other estimators assigned to a project.
The qualifications required to work as a mechanical estimator vary. Some companies will require this professional to have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, while others will allow an entry-level employee to work their way up to the position of mechanical estimator through on-the-job training. Moderate math skills, exceptional computer and communication skills, and a thorough understanding of the industry in which the estimator works are all required for the job. Even if the estimator has a relevant college degree, he or she will almost certainly receive on-the-job training to ensure a thorough understanding of the process. The job applicant may also be required to complete an apprenticeship, during which time he or she will work under the supervision and guidance of a senior estimator.
Problem solving is one of the mechanical estimator’s more difficult responsibilities: he or she must figure out how to complete a job efficiently and safely at the lowest possible cost, or within the customer’s budget and the company’s profit goals. If the bid is too high, the estimator must figure out how to reduce the cost without jeopardizing safety or efficiency.