Custom Product Estimator

Hammerton is a leading American designer/manufacturer of custom decorative lighting for the hospitality, commercial and residential markets. We are known as a major design innovator in our industry, and we’re rapidly growing. Our in-house blown and kiln-fired glass capabilities, combined with our expertise in metal fabrication and machining, make us uniquely capable of addressing the needs of the design industry’s most discerning clients.  Hammerton lighting can be found in leading five-star hotels and resorts, award-winning restaurants and many of the most beautiful homes in North America.

Hammerton Lighting is seeking a creative and detail-driven Custom Product Estimator to develop labor and material cost estimates for one-of-a-kind lighting projects. Working from customer RFQs that include concept images, dimensions, material specifications, and finishes, the Estimator will creatively source materials, identify manufacturing methods, and calculate costs to generate accurate pricing proposals. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, material knowledge, and an ability to translate custom designs into viable production strategies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review and interpret customer RFQs, sketches, images, and design intent for custom lighting projects.

• Develop creative sourcing strategies for materials, finishes, and components aligned with project goals.

• Estimate internal labor hours for fabrication, finishing, assembly, and quality assurance.

• Calculate complete project costs, including material, subcontract, labor, and overhead.

• Prepare detailed costing and pricing proposals in line with margin and profitability targets.

• Communicate with suppliers and vendors to obtain material quotes, pricing, and lead time information.

• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Project Management to validate designs and manufacturing feasibility.

• Participate in value engineering efforts to optimize cost without compromising design intent or product quality.

• Maintain accurate records of historical quotes, material sources, and project assumptions for future reference.

• Continuously improve estimating methods and tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

• Support the sales and design teams with technical input and timely pricing during the proposal phase.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Design, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

• 2 years of experience in estimating or costing in a custom manufacturing, fabrication, or artisan production environment.

• Experience working in a made-to-order or project-based manufacturing business strongly preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong understanding of fabrication methods, material properties (metal, glass, finishes), and artisan manufacturing processes.

• Demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness in material sourcing and production strategy.

• Ability to work from conceptual drawings, design intent documents, and visual references rather than finalized engineering drawings.

• Excellent mathematical, analytical, and organizational skills.

• Proficient with Microsoft Excel and other costing tools; ERP experience (especially Odoo) is a plus.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative mindset.

• Highly detail-oriented with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple quotes simultaneously in a dynamic environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Background in custom lighting, architectural metalwork, artisan fabrication, or bespoke manufacturing.

• Familiarity with sourcing decorative materials, specialty finishes, and unique artisan services.

• Prior experience working directly with design and engineering teams to bridge concept and production.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Prolong periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• You must be able to lift 50 pounds at times.