Estimator - Specialty Deck - NM Columbia
Company : Steel Dynamics
Location : Columbia, SC, 29204
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Division
New MillenniumOverview
As a Sales Estimator, you’ll play a key role in supporting project pricing by reviewing contract drawings, specifications, and addenda, and preparing accurate material takeoffs for joist and deck systems. You’ll work closely with the internal sales team to ensure all quote data is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
This is a fast-paced, detail-oriented position ideal for someone with a construction background and a passion for precision and teamwork.
Responsibilities
- Review and interpret architectural and structural drawings, specifications, and addenda for estimating purposes.
- Prepare detailed deck takeoffs to meet customer and bid deadlines.
- Input and manage estimate data using spreadsheets and company systems.
- Track addenda and updates; maintain bid calendar using Salesforce.
- Collaborate with District Sales Managers (DSMs) to coordinate bid-specific information.
- Communicate effectively with customers, engineers, architects, and internal departments.
- Support sales engineers during the pre-bid process to ensure accurate, cost-effective designs.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Required:
- Solid understanding of construction drawings, specifications, and general building practices.
- Strong math and geometry skills for material calculations and measurements.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multitask in a deadline-driven environment.
Preferred:
- Associate degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related design field.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in construction estimating, drafting, or a related field.
- Familiarity with Salesforce, Bluebeam, or other construction industry software is a plus.
Steel Dynamics, Inc., and all affiliated entities are equal opportunity employers.
Frequently asked questions
Candidates with a solid grasp of construction drawings, strong math skills, and at least two years in estimating or drafting typically outperform others. Knowledge of software like Salesforce or Bluebeam is a plus, boosting your profile for specialty deck estimating roles in Columbia’s competitive construction market.
Specialty deck estimators focus heavily on reviewing architectural and structural details specific to joist and deck systems. Their tasks often involve precise material takeoffs and coordination with district sales managers, which demands a blend of technical accuracy and effective communication distinct from broader construction estimating jobs.
Within specialized divisions like New Millennium, experienced estimators can progress into senior estimator roles, project management, or sales engineering. Demonstrating mastery in deck system pricing and collaborative skills often opens doors to leadership or cross-functional positions within Steel Dynamics or similar firms.
While not always mandatory, certifications like the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) or familiarity with construction management software improve credibility. In Columbia, employers also value local building code knowledge and any credentials demonstrating expertise in steel or specialty deck construction.
Steel Dynamics emphasizes precision and teamwork, encouraging estimators to collaborate closely with sales teams and internal departments. The company’s equal opportunity stance fosters a diverse environment where attention to detail and proactive communication are highly valued in specialty deck estimating.
Estimators must juggle fast-paced deadlines while ensuring accuracy in complex deck material takeoffs. Coordinating bid data via Salesforce and adapting to frequent addenda require agility and meticulous tracking, making the role demanding but rewarding within Steel Dynamics’ structured workflow.
Columbia’s growing construction industry has increased the need for skilled estimators, especially those familiar with specialty decking. However, competition remains moderate due to the niche nature of this expertise, favoring applicants with strong software skills and construction background.
Columbia’s traffic patterns are generally manageable, but proximity to industrial hubs can reduce commute stress. Estimators working with Steel Dynamics often benefit from locations near construction zones, which streamlines collaboration and onsite visits critical to accurate estimating.
Salary for specialty deck estimators in Columbia typically ranges between $60,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience and software proficiency. This reflects local market trends for construction estimators with specialized skills in steel and decking systems.