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Estimator - Industrial Services

Job

Taplin Group, LLC

Kalamazoo, MI (In Person)

$65,000 Salary, Full-Time

Posted 2 weeks ago (Updated 1 week ago) • Actively hiring

Expires 7/15/2026

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Job Description

General Description:
Prepare cost estimates for the various business lines of the Taplin Companies, including Industrial Services, Remediation, and Underground Infrastructure. This position is specific to our Industrial Services business line; however, it will serve as a backup to the other business lines of the company on an as-needed basis. The right person for this position must rely on the use of bid specifications, project scopes, facility drawings, engineering datasheets, site walks, client meetings, and their own experience in the industry to prepare and analyze project budgets, production rates, equipment utilization, labor requirements, timelines, and technical approaches. The primary function of this position is to generate complete, competitive estimates and proposals that identify and mitigate risk, as well as identify and capitalize on value-add opportunities to produce winning estimates with acceptable profit margins. Own the bid package from initial receipt through submission and champion ensuring competitive, compliant bid submittals are made on time and in accordance with company standard operating procedures. Preparation of detailed estimates or "takeoffs", including volume/tonnage calculations, asset/tank dimensions, waste quantities, and specialized equipment/labor hour requirements. Ensure a minimum of three (3) competitive quotes are sought and analyzed for all subcontracted work or vendor purchases (such as third-party waste disposal, specialized rentals, or scaffolding support), including directed-buy items. Submit bid bond information and insurance requirements to the Estimating Coordinator/Contract Manager within 48 hours of opportunity handoff. Submit contract documents to the Contract Manager immediately upon receipt to initiate formal internal/external contractual review. Analyze complex plant technical specifications, safety parameters, and shutdown/turnaround schedules to prepare comprehensive proposals for industrial facility cleaning, tank cleaning, and specialized waste handling. Perform detailed site walks documenting site conditions with pictures, measurements, and notes to determine project scope and approach. Meet with clients to understand desired output of project, details of the scope of work, and preferred approach methodologies. Quantify all aspects of the tender documents using estimating processes, systems, and documentation procedures. Formulate clear, concise Technical Narratives detailing the "how-to" approach of project execution (such as chemical circulation paths, vapor control management, or confined space entry plans), ensuring the methodology aligns completely with estimated costs and schedule. Develop preliminary Gantt chart project schedules utilizing production rates to prove project feasibility and minimize client downtime. Identify potential project risks (such as facility access limitations, specialized safety requirements, or critical path constraints) and develop corresponding cost-impact mitigation strategies. Apply value engineering principles to develop alternative, cost-effective approaches. Break out non-compliant value-add strategies cleanly as separate alternates to protect the base bid compliance. Prepare detailed project cost estimates and proposals for senior management review and sign-off. Track and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) throughout the bidding cycle, coordinating closely with plant engineers, procurement personnel, and project managers. Monitor costs, regulatory changes, and productivity fluctuations to make appropriate revisions to internal cost tracking and estimates. Contribute current cost, production rate, and vendor performance information back into the company estimating data pool. Maintain positive communication and interfaces between clients, plant facility representatives, and internal resources during the bidding phase. Lead internal kickoff meetings once a project award is issued. Complete an efficient, thorough transfer of the estimate, schedule, risk factors, and strategic opportunities from Estimating to Operations. Self-perform a thorough Win/Loss Analysis on submitted bids to analyze competitor approaches and continuously calibrate future estimating accuracy. Support and comply with all components of the company's health and safety programs. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. Willing to mentor when needed.
Requirements:
Strong understanding of industrial services techniques, including high-pressure hydro-blasting, liquid/dry vacuuming, chemical cleaning, tank/vessel cleaning, vapor control and waste management. •General knowledge of industrial facility operations (E.g.: refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing, steel or paper mills) and their associated safety/permitting systems. Good communication skills in written and verbal forms Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Project, Word) and estimating/takeoff software. Excellent organizational skills, and time management skills, with proven ability to prioritize and multi-task under tight bid deadlines or fast paced plant shutdown timelines. Able to perform job with little or no supervision or instructions. Strong problem-solving skills, including the resolution of client or technical concerns. Able to sit for long periods of time (e.g., computer operation, data processing) Mentally and physically fit to perform his/her duties, including extensive site walks and facility investigations that may involve climbing stairs, ladders, vertical platforms or navigating tight industrial spaces. Must pass Hazardous Waste Operations physical as defined by 29CFR1910.120 and be capable of passing facility-specific safety screenings. Must be able to work in extreme weather and temperature conditions during site visits. . Bachelor's degree in civil, Mechanical, Chemical or Environmental Engineering, Construction Management or 5 to 7 years relevant industrial maintenance or industrial services estimating/project experience. Degrees in other fields of study be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 40-Hour Hazwoper certification (preferred or able to obtain). Valid driver's license with clean driving record. Drug free Career Growth & Culture Strong focus on ongoing training and mentorship Supportive team environment Meaningful work with purpose Weekly pay schedule Opportunity to grow within a well-respected, community-focused organization
Pay:
From $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) 4% Match AD&D insurance Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location:
In person