Lead Fabrication Estimator - Mechanical Engineering & Fabrication

Southampton | £40,000-£45,000 + benefits

I'm recruiting for a long-established mechanical engineering business in Southampton that delivers complex fabrication projects across petrochemical, oil & gas, utility sectors. They're busy, growing, and need a Lead Fabrication Estimator who genuinely knows their way around drawings, RFQs, structural steelwork and fabricated assemblies.

If you enjoy the technical challenge of estimating bespoke fabrication projects — and want to join a company where your work directly influences bid success and project profitability — this is one to take seriously.

The Role

You'll take ownership of multidiscipline fabrication estimates for a wide range of projects, including:

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Structural steelwork, walkways, ladders, access platforms

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Modular skid frames and fabricated assemblies

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Atmospheric tanks and bespoke welding/manufacturing work

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Supporting the tendering process from initial enquiry through to submission

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Reviewing ITT/RFQ documentation, raising TQs and clarifying missing information

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Interpreting drawings/specs and producing accurate material take-offs

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Working with suppliers/sub-contractors to obtain competitive, accurate quotations

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Completing all required labour and cost breakdowns to support the bid schedule

You'll work closely with the Sales & Estimating Manager and Operations Director, playing a key role in tender analysis, risk reviews and helping to secure profitable, deliverable work.

What You'll Need

This role is ideal for someone from a mechanical engineering, fabrication, or petrochemical/oil & gas background with strong numerical and technical estimating skills.

Essential:

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Experience estimating fabrication and pipework systems projects

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Ability to read technical drawings and engineering specifications

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Confident producing material take-offs and labour calculations

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Strong communication skills and ability to engage with clients, suppliers and internal teams

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Numerically strong, highly organised and detail-driven

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Comfortable working in a busy SME environment where you genuinely influence outcomes

Desirable:

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Experience with BS EN 1090

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Understanding of standard engineering practices

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Background in structural, welded or modular fabrications

What's On Offer

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Salary £40k-£45k depending on experience

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25 days holiday + bank holidays

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Company pension & sick pay scheme

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Long-term career progression — the company is growing and invests in their people

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A role where you're genuinely valued and not just “another estimator in a big machine”

Interested?

If you'd like to discuss the role, the company culture, or whether your background fits — drop me a message and I'll talk you through it. No pressure, no hard sell, just a proper conversation about whether this could be a strong next step for you