Estimator

Manufacturing Estimator

Schedule: First Shift (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

osition Overview

A growing manufacturer is seeking a Manufacturing Estimator to prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for both production orders and custom manufacturing projects. This individual will partner with engineering, sales, purchasing, production, customers, and suppliers to develop detailed proposals while ensuring projects are quoted accurately and profitably.

The ideal candidate has previous estimating experience within a manufacturing environment and a strong understanding of production processes, material costs, labor, and machining or fabrication operations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for standard production orders and custom manufacturing projects.
• Review customer drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine manufacturing requirements.
• Calculate production time, labor, raw materials, tooling, outside processing, and overall manufacturing costs.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing engineers, sales, customers, and suppliers throughout the quoting process.
• Source new vendors and obtain supplier quotations to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Evaluate multiple manufacturing methods to recommend the most cost-effective approach.
• Update estimates as material pricing, labor costs, engineering revisions, or manufacturing processes change.
• Maintain estimating documentation and quote records within the ERP system.
• Support the sales team by providing timely and accurate quotations.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability through process improvements and strategic sourcing.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous estimating experience in a manufacturing environment is required.
• Experience in metal fabrication, machining, tooling, or industrial manufacturing is strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, labor standards, and production costs.
• Experience obtaining supplier quotes and sourcing vendors.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; ERP experience is preferred.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects while meeting deadlines.

Preferred Background

• Manufacturing estimating
• Metal fabrication
• CNC machining
• Tooling or tool shop operations
• Purchasing or sourcing
• Manufacturing engineering support
• Industrial production