16 Mechanical Estimator Skills for Your Career and Resume

A mechanical estimator is a professional who uses their skills to calculate the cost of a project before it begins. This estimate is based on the materials, labor, and other factors that will be required to complete the project. A mechanical estimator must have strong math skills and be able to understand complex technical drawings. They must also be able to communicate effectively with other members of the project team.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is the ability to identify and resolve issues that may arise during a project. As a mechanical estimator, you may need to solve problems related to estimating costs for materials or equipment, scheduling projects and resolving conflicts between clients and contractors. Being able to identify and solve these types of issues can help ensure successful projects and positive client experiences.

Analytical Skills

Mechanical estimators use their analytical skills to determine the cost of materials and labor for a project. They must be able to calculate the costs accurately so they can provide accurate estimates to customers. Mechanical estimators also use their analytical skills when determining which equipment or machinery is needed for a job.

Organizational Skills

Organization is a skill that can help you be successful in your role as a mechanical estimator. You may need to keep track of multiple projects at once, so it’s important to have organizational skills that allow you to prioritize tasks and remember details about each project. For example, if you’re working on an estimate for a new construction project, you might need to know the name of the company who hired you, the address of the building site, the type of materials needed and other information.

AutoCAD

Mechanical estimators use AutoCAD, a computer-aided design program, to create technical drawings of the machinery they estimate. This is an important skill for mechanical estimators because it allows them to accurately represent their designs and communicate with engineers and clients. Mechanical estimators also use AutoCAD when creating detailed construction plans for projects.

Leadership

A mechanical estimator needs to be able to lead a team of people who are working on the same project. This means you need to have strong leadership skills, including being able to delegate tasks and motivate others. You also need to be able to work with clients and explain your process clearly so they understand what is happening throughout the estimating process.

Trimble

Trimble is a software program that allows you to create and edit technical drawings. Having this skill can help you prepare accurate estimates for your clients, as it ensures the plans you submit are clear and easy to understand. You may also use trimble when creating blueprints for new projects, so having this skill can be beneficial in advancing your career.

On-Screen Takeoff

Mechanical estimators use takeoff skills to determine the materials needed for a project. They may need to calculate how much of each material is necessary based on the size and complexity of the job. For example, if a customer requests a large outdoor structure with intricate details, the mechanical estimator might estimate that more materials are required than if the customer requested a simple wall.

Bid2Win

Bid2Win is the ability to create accurate bids for projects. Mechanical estimators use their bid2win skills when creating estimates for clients and employers. This involves researching the project, determining materials needed and calculating labor costs. Having strong bid2win skills can help mechanical estimators secure contracts with businesses and organizations.

MS Office Suite

Mechanical estimators use MS Office Suite, a collection of software programs that includes word processing, spreadsheet and presentation tools. Mechanical estimators need to be familiar with the various functions of these programs in order to create accurate estimates for clients. For example, mechanical estimators often use Microsoft Word to write proposals and track their time on projects using an Excel spreadsheet.

Accubid

Mechanical estimators use their knowledge of engineering and construction to create accurate estimates for clients. They need to understand how materials, labor costs and other factors affect the price of a project. Having strong technical skills can help you make more precise calculations that satisfy customers and reduce risks for employers.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information in a way that others can understand. As a mechanical estimator, you may work with people from different backgrounds and disciplines who need to know what your estimates mean and how they were calculated. Your communication skills allow you to explain technical details in ways that non-technical employees can understand. They also help you collaborate with other team members on projects by explaining your ideas clearly and listening carefully to their input.

MC2

Mechanical estimators use their knowledge of materials and equipment to calculate the cost of a project. They need to know how much each material costs, what types of materials are needed for different projects and which equipment is necessary to complete certain tasks. This requires extensive research skills as well as an understanding of basic engineering principles so they can determine if the proposed design will work.

Sage Estimating

Estimating is the process of determining how long it will take to complete a project and what resources you need. Having strong estimations can help you determine if a job is worth accepting, as well as ensure that your client receives their product on time. To estimate effectively, you should be able to make accurate predictions based on past experiences with similar projects. You also need to know how to calculate the cost of materials and labor for each project.

CostX

Cost estimating is the process of determining how much it will cost to complete a project. As a mechanical estimator, you need to be able to calculate costs for various materials and equipment needed for each job. This includes researching prices, calculating labor costs and applying markup percentages to determine what customers may pay for the finished product.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is a skill that can help you perform your job well. As a mechanical estimator, you may need to review and approve many different aspects of projects, including budgets, timelines, materials lists and more. Having attention to detail can help you ensure all the information in these documents is accurate and complete. It can also help you notice any potential issues with a project before they arise so you can address them before they become larger problems.

Bluebeam

Bluebeam is a software program that allows mechanical estimators to create and edit technical drawings. Mechanical estimators use these drawings to estimate the cost of projects, so it’s important for them to be skilled in using this software. Bluebeam can help mechanical estimators draft detailed plans for their clients and ensure they’re meeting industry standards.

How Can I Learn These Mechanical Estimator Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the necessary skills to become a mechanical estimator. Many of these skills, such as problem solving, analytical skills, and organizational skills, can be learned through experience and on-the-job training. Additionally, there are many software programs that mechanical estimators use that you can learn through online tutorials or in-person training courses. Finally, it is important to have strong communication skills and attention to detail, which can be developed through practice and experience.