A mechanical estimator determines the cost of mechanical projects in industrial or construction environments. They require knowledge of the industry, machine rates, labor, and delivery. They may work in a team and need moderate math skills, computer and communication skills, and on-the-job training. They must solve problems to complete jobs effectively and safely at the lowest possible cost.
A mechanical estimator is a professional who determines the total cost of a mechanical project in an industrial or construction environment. This professional should have a working knowledge of the industry they work in, as well as a solid understanding of machine rates, labor, delivery, and other aspects that can affect the cost of a job. The mechanical estimator may work for a construction company or other industrial company, and he or she will work out an estimate for a specific job and then send that estimate as a bid for the project to the customer.
In some cases, the mechanical estimator may be just one part of an estimating team for a job. He or she will be responsible for determining costs associated with mechanical applications only, while another type of estimator can handle other aspects of the job such as construction costs, labor, delivery, and more. This is usually only the case for larger projects or exceptionally complex mechanical or construction applications. A chief estimator will be responsible for overseeing the work of the mechanical estimator, as well as other estimators who may work on a specific project.
The qualifications needed to get a job as a mechanical estimator can vary. Some companies will require this professional to have a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, while in other cases, an entry-level worker may be trained to work their way up to the position of mechanical estimator. The job will require moderate math skills, exceptional computer and communication skills, and an in-depth knowledge of the industry in which the estimator operates. Even if the estimator receives a college degree relevant to the field, it is likely that he or she will receive on-the-job training to ensure in-depth knowledge of the process. The job seeker may even undergo an apprenticeship, during which he or she will work under the guidance and supervision of a senor appraiser.
One of the mechanical estimator’s most complex responsibilities is problem solving: he will need to figure out how to complete a job effectively and safely at the lowest possible cost, or within the client’s budget and the company’s profit goals. If the bid is too high, the estimator will need to figure out ways to lower the cost without sacrificing safety or efficiency.
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