Lead Estimator
FORTNA partners with the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. At FORTNA, we believe in fostering a workplace that isn't just a job but a movement – a collective effort to redefine success and transform challenges into opportunities. "Join the Movement" encapsulates our commitment to a workplace culture that thrives on collaboration, celebrates diversity, and empowers every individual to contribute to something greater than themselves. Our Team. Our Passion. Our Approach. 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. It is the policy of FORTNA and its affiliated companies to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, citizenship status (if authorized to work in the U.S.), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, FORTNA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.