Marine Estimator

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Marine Estimator to join our growing ship repair team in Bayonne, New Jersey. This position plays a critical role in developing accurate, competitive cost estimates and repair proposals for ship repair, overhaul, conversion, and drydocking projects.

The ideal candidate will possess strong shipyard estimating experience, excellent analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of marine systems, ship structures, and U.S. Navy and commercial vessel repair requirements. This individual will work closely with production, engineering, procurement, and project management teams to deliver high-quality, competitive proposals while supporting successful project execution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Review contract documents, specifications, technical drawings, blueprints, and customer work scopes to develop comprehensive project estimates.
  • Prepare detailed labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor cost estimates for ship repair, maintenance, modernization, and drydocking projects.
  • Perform ship checks and onboard inspections to evaluate vessel conditions, verify project scope, and gather estimating data.
  • Develop labor-hour estimates using historical performance data and productivity benchmarks.
  • Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate vendor and subcontractor quotations to ensure competitive pricing.
  • Analyze production requirements and identify cost drivers, project risks, and opportunities for cost savings.
  • Prepare accurate repair proposals, bid packages, growth work estimates, and change order pricing.
  • Support production teams by monitoring project growth, estimating additional work, and assisting with cost control efforts.
  • Collaborate with Operations, Production, Planning, Engineering, and Procurement to ensure estimates are complete and accurate.
  • Maintain estimating databases, vendor pricing, labor standards, and historical cost information.
  • Participate in bid reviews, customer meetings, contract negotiations, and proposal presentations when required.

Required Qualifications

  • 3–5+ years of experience in shipyard estimating, marine project planning, ship repair, or marine engineering.
  • Strong knowledge of commercial and/or U.S. Navy vessel repair, drydocking, marine systems, and ship construction.
  • Working knowledge of applicable regulatory standards, including NAVSEA, ABS, USCG, and other maritime requirements.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, specifications, and work packages.
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and estimating software/tools.
  • Excellent mathematical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously while meeting aggressive deadlines.
  • Willingness to perform onboard vessel inspections, including climbing ladders, entering confined spaces, and working in varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or certification in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Previous experience estimating U.S. Navy ship maintenance and modernization projects.
  • Familiarity with government contract pricing standards and federal procurement practices.
  • OSHA Maritime 10 or OSHA Maritime 30 certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to access all areas of vessels, drydocks, and shipyard facilities.
  • Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, enter confined spaces, and lift up to 50 pounds as needed.
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Must be able to wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation based on experience
  • Comprehensive Medical and Dental Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • Professional Development & Training Opportunities
  • Career Growth within a growing ship repair organization
  • Stable, long-term employment with challenging and rewarding projects

Experience

2 - 5 Years