Mecahnical / 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.