Project Estimator - Show & Event Services

About INSPIRE:

Founded in 1986 as a family-owned business, INSPIRE has grown into a global leader in event organization, producing over 2,500 events annually across the United States, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.

At INSPIRE, we understand that the success of live events in the hospitality industry is driven by more than just technology—it’s about the people behind it. We take pride in offering our employees opportunities for growth through career development and succession planning, while fostering a culture focused on customer satisfaction, innovation, and teamwork.

Specializing in live events, we provide cutting-edge audio-visual solutions that elevate conferences, meetings, and events within the hospitality space. Our skilled technicians and creative professionals work closely with clients to ensure seamless execution and memorable experiences. By offering personalized, professional service, we build lasting relationships and deliver exceptional results every time.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Estimator to join our Sales and Event Services team. This role is critical in developing accurate, profitable, and competitive cost estimates for live event productions that meet both creative and technical expectations. This role is a "REMOTE" opportunity with the Central Time Zone being the preferred location of residence.

What Will You Be Doing?

The Estimator will analyze project requirements, creative concepts, and technical specifications to build comprehensive budgets and cost analyses. This position works closely with Sales, Account Management, Project Management, and Production teams to ensure every proposal reflects INSPIRE’s standards for quality and value.

• Review RFPs, creative briefs, floor plans, technical riders, and production specs to understand full project scope.
• Using CAD software to create meeting room diagrams.
• Develop detailed cost estimates for all event production elements, including: staging, lighting, audio, video, rigging, scenic, labor, transportation, and cross rentals.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (sales, project management, and business development) to align on scope, assumptions, and cost impacts.
• Request, analyze, and evaluate quotes from vendors, suppliers, and freelance crew to ensure cost accuracy and profitability.
• Assist with preliminary budgets for proposals, pitches, and RFP responses.
• Support seamless project handoffs from estimating to production, ensuring clear communication of budget parameters and assumptions.
• Maintain current pricing data, vendor relationships, and resource databases.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and value-engineering solutions that meet client and creative needs.
• Prepare and update job cost estimates for pre-job analysis and forecasting.

What Do You Need?

• Minimum 2 years of experience in estimating, budgeting, or project coordination within live events, AV production, or experiential marketing.
• Strong understanding of event production workflows, labor categories, and technical equipment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and the Office 365 suite (advanced Excel skills preferred).
• Working knowledge of R2 Rental Equipment Management Software or equivalent systems such as Flex, LASSO, or Intellivent Lightning.
• Experience creating meeting room diagrams using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

Technical & Creative Skills

• Ability to interpret floor plans, renderings, and technical drawings.
• Familiarity with AV production materials, labor standards, and logistical considerations.

Professional Attributes

• Self-starter with strong initiative and follow-through.
• Collaborative team player with a professional and positive attitude.
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and able to thrive under pressure.
• Demonstrates sound judgment, resourcefulness, and adaptability.
• Strong sense of accountability, reliability, and commitment to excellence.

What Do You Get?

• Base salary plus performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and elective options.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a global leader in event production.

If you’re passionate about delivering exceptional service and working in a dynamic, collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply!