Estimator – Architectural Signage
Vertical Visual SolutionsJob Summary We are seeking a detail-driven and analytical Architectural Signage Estimator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for translating architectural blueprints, sign schedules, and design intents into highly accurate, competitive cost estimates for custom interior and exterior signage systems. You will collaborate closely with sales, project management, fabrication and installation teams to ensure our bids reflect the exact scope, design and engineering requirements, and production plans needed to deliver premium signage. Key Responsibilities Analyze Technical Documents: Review complex architectural drawings, site plans, bid packets, design layouts, and sign schedules to accurately determine the full scope of work. Perform Material Takeoffs: Calculate precise quantities of materials required—including substrates (aluminum, acrylic, steel), LED lighting systems, vinyl, paint, and mounting hardware. Calculate Fabrication & Labor Costs: Estimate the labor hours required for custom routing, welding, painting, digital printing, assembly, and final installation. Vendor & Subcontractor Procurement: Solicit and evaluate quotes from external vendors and subcontractors for specialized processes (e.g., masonry base installations, equipment rentals, electrical work, engineering stamps). Value Engineering: Identify opportunities to recommend alternative materials or manufacturing methods that reduce costs for the client without compromising the design intent or structural integrity. Prepare Bid Packages: Assemble clear, structured, and comprehensive estimate packages, outlining precise assumptions, exclusions, and cost breakdowns for the sales team and clients. Cross Departmental Collaboration: Work together with the production and design teams to ensure the proposed estimates align with shop capabilities and installation logistics. Required Skills & Qualifications Experience: 3+ years of estimating experience in architectural signage, custom manufacturing, custom metal or millwork fabrication. Blueprint Proficiency: Exceptional ability to read and interpret complex architectural drawings, landscape plans, and engineering specifications. Software Knowledge: Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and digital takeoff tools like Bluebeam . Familiarity with Sage 50, ClickUp, CorelDraw/Adobe Illustrator (for reviewing design and art files) is a major plus. Industry Acuity: Strong working knowledge of custom sign fabrication techniques (e.g., channel letters, monument signs, wayfinding and ADA) and standard structural requirements. Mathematical Precision: Exceptional numerical and basic geometric skills required to compute accurate material yield, weights, and scale factors. Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills to clearly document the boundaries of a quote and coordinate with external vendors. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Construction Management, Architectural Engineering , or a related technical field. Deep understanding of local sign codes, ADA compliance guidelines, and structural wind-load requirements. Join us to be part of an energetic team dedicated to delivering high-quality signage solutions that make a lasting impact! We value proactive leadership and innovative thinking. If you’re passionate about impactful projects in a collaborative environment, we want to hear from you! Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year Benefits: AD&D insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): Please explain your work ethic? Experience: Estimating : 3 years (Required) Ability to Commute: Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Required) Work Location: In person