A mechanical estimator determines equipment and cost needed for a job. High school and vocational training are required, with some industries requiring post-secondary certificates or degrees. Apprenticeships or assistant positions are necessary, and basic math and communication skills are important.
A mechanical estimator is a professional who determines the type of equipment needed for a particular business, company or job and then secures and manages that equipment. He or she will also estimate the cost of mechanical work and processes. To become a mechanical estimator, you will need to complete high school and some professional training in the form of vocational or post-secondary training. A common route to becoming a mechanic estimator is to take a lower-level position and advance through the system by participating in professional training and any other opportunities offered by your employer.
Basic math skills will be required to become a mechanical estimator, as well as basic communication skills and a solid understanding of common processes in the industry you intend to work in. Some industries may require applicants for this position to obtain post-secondary certificates or degrees before becoming a mechanical estimator, as some industries may be more complex than others. Many mechanical estimators work as construction workers or other handymen, and as time progresses, workers can learn the skills needed to become a mechanical estimator by working with more experienced estimators on the job.
Some colleges and universities will offer certificates or degrees that will prepare you to become a mechanical estimator. You could, for example, earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering, which will give you the qualifications you need to secure employment after graduation. Many companies, however, do not need a bachelor’s degree, and it may be sufficient to obtain an associate’s degree or industry-relevant certificate. You can also attend a technical school instead of a college or university to earn these credentials.
It is likely that you will need to become an apprentice or assistant to a mechanical estimator before becoming one. This internship or assistant position can last from one to five years. The work can be complex and you will need to develop a sense of common costs associated with mechanical jobs. The estimates you create will be submitted to potential clients and the offer will need to be competitive enough to beat other potential contractors. This means you’ll need to have a solid understanding of labor rates, machine rental or purchase rates, material costs, and anything else that needs to be factored into the overall estimate.
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