Estimator - Design, Construction & Manufacturing Projects

Advanced Aquarium Technologies (AAT) is a world leader in a niche industry – the design, construction and operation of inspiring public aquariums.

More than exciting, themed attractions for tourists and local residents, we see aquariums as versatile, multi-purpose destinations with potential to become ambassadors for marine conservation, scientific research, endangered species breeding programs and wildlife rescue/rehabilitation.

AAT is a vertically integrated business offering a suite of services for the entire life cycle of public aquariums. From concept development, visitor experience design, and detailed construction specifications to the manufacturing of state-of-the-art products like the world's largest ACRYLITE® viewing structures, AAT is a one-stop-shop for public aquarium design, construction and operational services.

Dive into a career with AAT, a global leader in the design and construction of iconic international public aquariums. As our project Estimator, your precision and passion for numbers will combine with your construction industry know how to play a vital role in creating themed attractions and aquatic wonders. Be part of something extraordinary!

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented, thorough, and organized Estimator to join our growing team in the Houston, Texas office. In this position, you will play a key role in analyzing costs and preparing estimates for design, construction, manufacturing and service projects. With your experience, you will contribute to the accurate pricing of proposals, identifying cost trends, and maintaining a database of cost data. The ideal candidate has a strong background in construction and manufacturing processes, a keen analytical mind, and excellent numerical skills.

What you’ll do:

• Review and understand technical and administrative documents such as Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and blueprints to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
• Collaborate with sales, engineers, architects, clients, manufacturing teams and contractors on estimates in the pre- and post-sales process.
• Assess cost-effectiveness and profitability of potential projects.
• Recommend/use cost-estimating and planning software to efficiently produce accurate estimates.
• Conduct occasional site visits (approximately 2-3 visits/year) and project assessments as necessary to ensure estimate accuracy.
• Present prepared estimates to clients and stakeholders (AAT managers and executives), explaining and defending the basis for the figures.
• Negotiate pricing with material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Track and record data regarding past estimates and actual costs, updating costing databases regularly.
• Identify and quantify potential cost uncertainties to ensure costing risk is understood and accounted for.
• Read project Specifications and ensure the bid is per project specifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in construction estimating, ideally within both construction and manufacturing sectors.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, materials, and legal regulations.
• Proficiency with estimating software and excellent computer literacy with common Microsoft software including but not limited to MS Office: Excel, Word, etc.).
• Expertise with formulas/functions and advanced usage of Excel spreadsheets
• Excellent numerical skills and understanding of accounting and finance.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills; ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Detail-oriented with organizational and project management skills.
• Familiarity with industry trends, cost-saving opportunities, and the latest estimation technologies.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and within budgetary constraints.
• Ability to easily travel on business
• Exceptional problem-solving skills and reasoning ability.
• Out of the box thinker with a can-do attitude.
• Strong work ethic, hard worker

Benefits

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• 401K
• Professional, on-the-job training
• Paid Time Off (10 days/year for the first 1-4 years of employment, 15 days/year for 5+ years of employment)
• 9 Paid Company Holidays a year

Why Join Advanced Aquarium Technologies?

• Global Impact: Be part of a team that designs and builds record-breaking aquariums that inspire and educate people worldwide.
• Career Growth: Advance your career in an environment that encourages innovation and offers continuous learning opportunities.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of aquarium design and construction.
• Northwest Houston: Enjoy the vibrant culture and diverse opportunities that Houston offers, all while being based in the thriving northwest region of the city.