Estimator

Position Summary

The Estimator / Engineering Technician is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for fabricated metal products while providing engineering support throughout the manufacturing process. This position reviews customer drawings and specifications, determines manufacturing methods, calculates material and labor costs, and collaborates with Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, and Production to ensure profitable and achievable quotes. The role also assists with creating manufacturing documentation, maintaining engineering records, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Estimating Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, and technical requirements.
• Develop accurate cost estimates for fabricated metal components and assemblies.
• Calculate material, labor, machine time, tooling, outside processing, and overhead costs.
• Determine manufacturing methods and routing requirements.
• Request and evaluate vendor quotes for purchased components and outsourced services.
• Work closely with Purchasing to obtain current material pricing.
• Analyze drawings for manufacturability and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Recommend alternative manufacturing methods to improve competitiveness.
• Prepare formal quotations within established turnaround times.
• Maintain estimating records and historical cost data.
• Participate in quote review meetings with Sales and Engineering.

Engineering Responsibilities

• Create and maintain Bills of Material (BOMs), routers, and work instructions.
• Support Engineering with production documentation and drawing revisions.
• Assist in developing manufacturing processes for new products.
• Review engineering drawings for completeness and manufacturability.
• Create and update CAD drawings as needed.
• Support implementation of engineering changes (ECOs/ECNs).
• Assist with first article inspections and new product launches.
• Work with Production to resolve manufacturing issues.
• Help develop standard work and process improvements.
• Maintain engineering files and document control.

Collaboration

• Work closely with Sales during the quoting process.
• Coordinate with Purchasing regarding material availability and pricing.
• Partner with Production to validate manufacturing methods.
• Assist Quality with customer specification reviews.
• Support Operations in identifying cost reduction opportunities.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent manufacturing experience may be considered.

Experience

• 3–5 years of estimating experience in metal fabrication or manufacturing preferred.
• Experience reading fabrication, welding, and machining drawings.
• Knowledge of sheet metal manufacturing processes.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems.
• CAD experience (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Understanding of fabrication, welding, laser cutting, forming, machining, and finishing processes.
• Excellent mathematical and analytical abilities.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple quotes and engineering projects.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in custom metal fabrication.
• Knowledge of welding symbols and fabrication standards.
• Familiarity with ERP software such as JobBOSS² or similar manufacturing systems.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.
• Understanding of ISO 9001 quality systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk throughout the workday.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Frequent computer work requiring keyboard and mouse use.
• Ability to occasionally access the production floor, requiring appropriate PPE.
• Ability to distinguish colors, dimensions, and details on engineering drawings.

Work Environment

• Office environment with regular exposure to a manufacturing facility.
• Occasional exposure to noise, dust, moving equipment, and varying temperatures while on the production floor.
• Appropriate PPE is required when entering manufacturing areas.

Success Measures

Success in this role is measured by:

• Accurate and timely completion of customer quotations.
• Quote profitability and accuracy versus actual production costs.
• On-time completion of engineering documentation.
• Successful launch of new products into production.
• Continuous improvement contributions that reduce manufacturing costs and improve efficiency.
• Positive collaboration with Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, Production, and Quality.