What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cost Estimator position at Mount Kemble Search Group?
Cost Estimator
Location: Chelmsford, MA
Type: Direct Hire | On‑site
Industry: Electronics / Contract Manufacturing
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail‑oriented Cost Estimator to support quoting and costing activities within a manufacturing and contract electronics environment. This role is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for new and repeat business, partnering closely with Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Program Management to ensure competitive and executable pricing.
This is a hands‑on role ideal for someone who enjoys digging into BOMs, routings, labor models, and manufacturing processes to support profitable growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare accurate cost estimates and quotations for customer RFQs, including material, labor, overhead, tooling, and NRE
- Review and interpret:
- Bills of Material (BOMs)
- Routings and labor standards
- Customer drawings, specifications, and statements of work
- Partner with Engineering and Manufacturing to:
- Validate labor times and process assumptions
- Understand build complexity for CCA, cable/harness, and electromechanical assemblies
- Work with Purchasing to obtain:
- Supplier pricing
- Lead times
- Make/buy recommendations
- Evaluate estimated cost vs. actual production cost and update data accordingly
- Support continuous improvement by identifying cost drivers, inefficiencies, and opportunities for savings
- Maintain costing accuracy within ERP/MRP systems
- Participate in cross‑functional reviews to ensure quotes are aligned with manufacturing capabilities and capacity
Required Qualifications
- 3 years of experience in cost estimating, quoting, or manufacturing finance
- Experience in a manufacturing or contract manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of:
- BOM structures
- Labor routing and shop‑floor processes
- Material costing
- Ability to interpret technical documentation (drawings, specifications, ECOs)
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ERP/MRP systems
- Excellent attention to detail and follow‑through
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with electronics, circuit card assembly (CCA), cable & harness, or electromechanical products
- Prior exposure to RFQs in a contract manufacturing setting
- Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement background
- Ability to collaborate effectively with Engineering and Operations teams
Why Join
- Direct‑hire opportunity with a stable manufacturing organization
- Collaborative, cross‑functional environment
- High visibility role impacting pricing, profitability, and growth
- On‑site team with strong engineering and manufacturing partnership
Salary : $80,000 - $90,000