Estimator – Metal Fabrication & Machining Projects Norfolk, VA

Experienced Fabrication Estimator for High-Spec Defense & Industrial Projects | Norfolk, VA

Analyze RFQs, technical drawings, and specifications to prepare accurate, competitive estimates for complex fabrication, machining, and welding projects. Work with carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and specialty metals—ensuring every quote meets NAVSEA, MIL-SPEC, and industrial requirements. This is a high-responsibility role in a fast-paced, high-volume RFQ environment where accuracy, speed, and industry expertise make the difference.

If you understand how a fab and machine shop operates, can interpret complex blueprints and weld symbols, and know what it takes to deliver accurate quotes that can be built on time, to spec, and within budget—this role is where your experience matters.
📄 Job Type:Full-Time

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Pay:$26 - 38 per hour (based on experience)
📍 Location: Norfolk Plant

Monday–Thursday Day Shift | 4x10

Monday–Thursday Afternoon Shift | 4x10

Monday–Thursday Evening Shift | 4x10

Tuesday–Friday Day Shift | 4x10

Tuesday–Friday Afternoon Shift | 4x10

Tuesday–Friday Evening Shift | 4x10

TST Fab & Machine is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business based in Norfolk, Virginia, specializing in high-spec metal fabrication and machining for the defense, maritime, and industrial sectors. We are known for our precision, responsiveness, and ability to meet strict compliance requirements—including NAVSEA, MIL-SPEC, and other mission-critical standards.

Our estimating team plays a pivotal role in securing and delivering projects that support shipbuilding, infrastructure, and industrial systems. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for an experienced estimator who can accurately translate technical requirements into winning proposals that keep production flowing and customers confident in our capabilities.

The Fabrication Estimator will review RFQs, technical drawings, and material specifications to develop detailed, competitive quotes for a variety of metal fabrication and machining projects. You’ll work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure quotes are accurate, achievable, and fully compliant with contract requirements.

This position requires strong technical understanding of fabrication and machining processes, the ability to interpret NAVSEA and shipyard standards, and the discipline to manage multiple bids in a fast-paced environment. If you have a proven track record of producing precise, timely estimates that win work and maintain profitability—this is where your skills matter.

• Review RFQs, blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications to fully understand project scope and requirements.
• Break down jobs into detailed material, labor, process, and subcontract requirements for accurate cost development.
• Apply knowledge of fabrication and machining processes—including cutting, forming, welding, finishing, and assembly—to produce realistic, buildable estimates.
• Ensure estimates align with NAVSEA, MIL-SPEC, shipyard, and customer-specific standards.
• Collaborate with shop supervisors, machinists, fabricators, and quality control to validate manufacturing steps, process times, and tooling needs.
• Source and confirm vendor quotes for raw materials, outside services, and specialty processes.
• Develop pricing that reflects material costs, labor hours, machine time, subcontract services, and overhead.
• Identify potential production risks, constraints, or special considerations and communicate them to project management.
• Maintain estimating documentation and ensure traceability of assumptions, data sources, and revisions.
• Support business development by providing timely, competitive, and accurate quotes in response to customer requests.
• Assist in developing bid strategies for competitive and sole-source opportunities.

• 5+ years of estimating experience in a metal fabrication and/or machining environment.
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, weld symbols, GD&T, and technical specifications.
• Working knowledge of NAVSEA, MIL-SPEC, and shipyard fabrication/machining standards.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems for…