What are the responsibilities and job description for the Estimator position at MET Manufacturing Group?
Job Title: Estimator (Full-Time)
Location: Mishawaka, IN (On-site) Employment Type: Full-Time, Salary Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Department: Engineering / Sales Support
About MET Manufacturing Group
MET Manufacturing Group is a leading contract manufacturer specializing in precision sheet metal fabrication, photochemical etching, waterjet cutting, laser cutting, machining, and a wide range of value-added services. We serve customers across diverse industries by delivering high-quality parts, competitive pricing, and dependable lead times.
Position Summary
MET Manufacturing Group is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Estimator to join our team. This role is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for customer RFQs (materials, operation type and operation times), while working closely with the core team members (engineering, sales, and production teams). The ideal candidate has a strong manufacturing background and enjoys balancing technical detail with customer-focused solutions.
Key Responsibilities
· Review customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, and related documentation
· The Estimator has the responsibility to address potential issues and/or concerns with RFQ’s after their own review during the estimating process
- These concerns could be regarding tolerances, or feasibility issues with those parties responsible for resolution. These potential issues and concerns need to be addressed with the other with the core team members (engineering, sales, and production teams) before an estimate can be passed on to engineering and sales
· Develop accurate cost estimates for sheet metal fabrication, machining, etching, waterjet, and secondary operations
· Requesting quotes for specialty raw material and outside processes from Purchasing
· Collaborating with Purchasing Team to locate possible outside operation suppliers
· Participating in time studies as requested
· Analyze material requirements, labor, machine time, outside services, and overhead
· Work with engineering and production to determine manufacturability and cost drivers
· Collaborating with sales to support pricing strategies and customer proposals
· Maintain the estimating data, pricing models, and historical job costs
· Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement
· Ensure estimates align with company margin and lead-time objectives
Qualifications
· 2 years of estimating experience in a manufacturing environment (sheet metal preferred)
· 2 years of experience estimating in operation times and material costs of fabricated metal and/or plastic components
· Strong understanding of fabrication processes, materials, and print reading
· Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications
· Proficient with Excel and estimating or ERP software
· Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
· Ability to manage multiple RFQs and deadlines simultaneously
· Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field preferred