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: * Structural steelwork, walkways, ladders, access platforms * Modular skid frames and fabricated assemblies * Atmospheric tanks and bespoke welding/manufacturing work * Supporting the tendering process from initial enquiry through to submission * Reviewing ITT/RFQ documentation, raising TQs and clarifying missing information * Interpreting drawings/specs and producing accurate material take-offs * Working with suppliers/sub-contractors to obtain competitive, accurate quotations * 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: * Experience estimating fabrication and pipework systems projects * Ability to read technical drawings and engineering specifications * Confident producing material take-offs and labour calculations * Strong communication skills and ability to engage with clients, suppliers and internal teams * Numerically strong, highly organised and detail-driven * Comfortable working in a busy SME environment where you genuinely influence outcomes Desirable: * Experience with BS EN 1090 * Understanding of standard engineering practices * Background in structural, welded or modular fabrications What’s On Offer * Salary £40k–£45k depending on experience * 25 days holiday bank holidays * Company pension & sick pay scheme * Long-term career progression — the company is growing and invests in their people * 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