Job Title

Lead Fabrication Estimator – Mechanical Engineering & FabricationSouthampton | £40,000–£45,000 + benefitsI’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 RoleYou’ll take ownership of multidiscipline fabrication estimates for a wide range of projects, including:Structural steelwork, walkways, ladders, access platformsModular skid frames and fabricated assembliesAtmospheric tanks and bespoke welding/manufacturing workSupporting the tendering process from initial enquiry through to submissionReviewing ITT/RFQ documentation, raising TQs and clarifying missing informationInterpreting drawings/specs and producing accurate material take-offsWorking with suppliers/sub-contractors to obtain competitive, accurate quotationsCompleting all required labour and cost breakdowns to support the bid scheduleYou’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 NeedThis 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 projectsAbility to read technical drawings and engineering specificationsConfident producing material take-offs and labour calculationsStrong communication skills and ability to engage with clients, suppliers and internal teamsNumerically strong, highly organised and detail-drivenComfortable working in a busy SME environment where you genuinely influence outcomesDesirable:Experience with BS EN 1090Understanding of standard engineering practicesBackground in structural, welded or modular fabricationsWhat’s On OfferSalary £40k–£45k depending on experience25 days holiday + bank holidaysCompany pension & sick pay schemeLong-term career progression — the company is growing and invests in their peopleA 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.