FORTNA partners with the world's leading brands to transform distribution operations through innovative automation and software solutions. We are seeking a Lead Estimator to support our North American Distribution & Fulfillment business by developing accurate, strategic cost estimates for complex warehouse automation projects.
As the senior estimating professional on the team, you will lead estimating activities for large-scale material handling systems, collaborate across engineering and commercial teams, and provide recommendations that influence pricing strategy and project success. You will also mentor other estimators, improve estimating tools and processes, and serve as a trusted advisor on complex opportunities.
What You'll Do- Lead the development of capital budget and contract estimates for complex material handling and warehouse automation projects.
- Analyze project scope, technical requirements, and commercial objectives to develop accurate cost models.
- Collaborate with engineering, software, project management, procurement, sales, and other SMEs to develop comprehensive estimates.
- Maintain and enhance estimating tools, cost libraries, and databases.
- Analyze historical project data and develop metrics to improve estimating accuracy.
- Recommend pricing strategies and participate in executive cost and price reviews.
- Challenge project costs, schedules, and technical approaches to deliver competitive, standardized solutions.
- Mentor junior estimators and support estimating best practices across the team.
- Contribute to estimating process improvements, training initiatives, and tool development.
- Serve as the Estimation Manager's delegate when needed.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Project Management, Software Engineering, or a related technical field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Candidates without a degree should possess approximately 10+ years of progressive estimating experience supporting material handling, warehouse automation, logistics, distribution, or supply chain projects.
- 8+ years of estimating experience supporting material handling, warehouse automation, logistics, supply chain, or industrial automation projects.
- Experience estimating complex integrated systems involving technologies such as conveyors, ASRS, robotics, AMRs, AGVs, or AutoStore.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and Excel skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate across technical and commercial teams.
- Experience influencing pricing strategy, managing ambiguity, and supporting high-value proposals.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Experience mentoring technical team members.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with warehouse automation systems integrators.
- Familiarity with cost modeling, estimating databases, and proposal development.
- Knowledge of warehouse operations, distribution centers, and automated material handling systems.
Work Environment- Remote within the United States.
- Candidates must be able to support Eastern Time business hours and collaborate with cross-functional teams across North America and internationally.
The base salary range for this role is $100,700 to $151,100. This base salary range represents the low and high end of the base salary range for this position.
Actual base salary offered will vary based on various factors including but not limited to location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and performance.
This job description describes the general nature and level of work expected of a person assigned to this position. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor.
