Lead Estimator

Company Description

Mac Machine Company, Inc. is a trusted provider of precision machined parts and assemblies, serving key sectors such as Aerospace (Military & Commercial), Defense, Industrial, Electronics, and Medical/Diagnostic tools. With expertise in 4 & 5-axis CNC Milling, CNC Turning, CNC Grinding, Wire EDM, and NADCAP certified Welding, Mac Machine delivers high-quality, made-to-print solutions. Leveraging advanced CMM measuring machines, the company ensures precise adherence to customer specifications. Notably, their contributions include parts used in extravehicular activity (EVA) space suits and on Mars Rovers. They also provide additional services such as Plating, Heat Treating, Laser Marking, Assembly, Painting, and Testing, welcoming visits to their Windsor Mill, MD facility for operational insights.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Lead Estimator located in Windsor Mill, MD. The Lead Estimator will be responsible for analyzing project requirements, estimating costs, preparing detailed proposals, and coordinating with teams to ensure accurate and competitive bids. Additional duties include collaborating with clients and internal departments to refine project specifications, managing estimation procedures, and maintaining cost analysis records to support strategic decision-making. The role requires a strong understanding of machining processes and customer-driven quality standards.

KEY REPSONSIBILITIES

• Prepare detailed, accurate, & timely job quotes based on customer drawings, specifications, & requirements.

• Create comprehensive Job Routers that clearly define the manufacturing process, required operations, tooling, & sequencing for each quoted job.

• Collaborate closely w/ Outside Sales to understand customer needs, priorities, and target pricing.

• Partner w/ the Programming & Operations teams to validate cycle times, machine capabilities, setup requirements, & production feasibility.

• Work directly w/ Purchasing Lead to obtain accurate outside process (OSP) quotes (heat treat, plating, grinding, etc.) and current material pricing.

• Coordinate w/ Inside Sales to confirm customer requirements, clarify specifications, & align on promised delivery timelines.

• Maintain the quote log. Participate in weekly Quote Log meeting to track quote status, review win/loss ratios, quote volume, and turnaround performance.

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction, value engineering, or alternative processing methods during the quoting phase.

• Continuously improve the quoting process by refining templates, standard costs, & historical data accuracy.

• Support the transition of won quotes into active jobs by ensuring all necessary documentation (routers, BOMs, OSP requirements) is complete and handed off to production planning.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Primarily an office/desk-based role, but frequent visits to the shop floor are required to verify machine capabilities, discuss setups w/ programmers & operators, and inspect sample parts or tooling.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 2–3 hours daily) while on the manufacturing floor or attending the occasional Trade Show.

• Occasional lifting and carrying of up to 25 lbs. (blueprints, sample parts, fixtures, or material samples).

• Ability to navigate stairs, uneven surfaces, and typical machine shop environments (exposure to noise, coolant mist, and moving machinery).

• Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe shoes when in production areas.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

 5 yrs experience in CNC machining estimating/quoting (precision machining environment strongly preferred).

 Foundational understanding of machining processes, GD&T, material selection, and outside processing requirements.

 Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and customer specifications.

 Analytical skills with high attention to detail.

 Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel; experience with Global Shop, JobBoss, or similar shop software is a plus.

 Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally and drive decisions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

 Self-motivated with a track record of meeting deadlines and managing multiple quotes simultaneously.

 Valid driver's license & ability to travel domestically (typically 10–20% including day trips and occasional overnight stays.

Why This Role Matters

As the Lead Estimator, you are the gatekeeper of profitable work at Mac Machine. Your accuracy, speed, and technical insight directly influence win rates, margin performance, and customer satisfaction. This is a highly visible, critical position that combines technical expertise with cross-departmental leadership.