Senior Estimator

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Estimator is responsible for developing accurate cost estimates for aerospace and spacecraft components, assemblies, and machining projects. This role involves analyzing engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to calculate labor, material, tooling, and production costs. The estimator collaborates with engineering, manufacturing, finance and procurement teams to ensure proposals are technically sound and commercially competitive. A strong understanding of aerospace and spacecraft materials, manufacturing processes (such as CNC machining, fabrication, precision assembly), and industry standards is essential.

The Senior Estimator supports both new business opportunities and change proposals for existing contracts.

This position will play a crucial role in the production process and contribute to the team’s overall performance in Quality, Cost, Delivery, Safety, and Attitude (QCDSA).
We are a diverse team of collaborators, doers, and problem-solvers who are relentlessly committed to delivering excellence in aerospace manufacturing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Review and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and technical data packages to develop detailed cost estimates.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, quality, and procurement teams to assess manufacturability, required processes, and sourcing strategies.
• Calculate material usage, labor hours, machine time, tooling requirements, and other cost elements for aerospace machining and assembly.
• Develop cost breakdowns and pricing models in support of customer RFQs (Requests for Quote), RFPs (Requests for Proposal), and internal program planning.
• Prepare comprehensive estimate packages, including assumptions, risks, and justifications.
• Monitor cost drivers, industry trends, and historical data to improve estimating accuracy and competitiveness.
• Support change proposals, cost revisions, and contract modifications by updating estimates based on revised engineering or scope.
• Maintain estimating tools, templates, and historical cost databases.
• Participate in cost reviews, pricing negotiations, and bid strategy discussions with management and customer representatives.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, internal procedures, and customer-specific estimating requirements.
• Quote and/or Proposal considers current economic conditions that may affect the organization’s ability to sell its products or services in the marketplace.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.

EXPERIENCE

• 8 years of experience in estimating, manufacturing engineering, or cost analysis, preferably in the aerospace, spacecraft or defense sector.
• Solid understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes such as CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, composite layup, assembly, and special processes (e.g., anodizing, NDT, heat treating).
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, Catia and GD&T.
• Proficiency with cost estimating tools, Excel, and ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, DELTEK, Costpoint, etc.).
• Strong analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills across technical and commercial teams.
• Excellent communications skills working with high level customers.
• Knowledge of AS9100, ITAR, and other relevant industry regulations and standards.

• Experience with cost modeling for spacecraft or satellite components.
• Familiarity with government contracting, FAR/DFARS regulations, and proposal preparation under DoD or NASA programs.
• Proficiency with CAD software and familiarity with CAM or manufacturing simulation tools.
• Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing background is a plus.

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Proficient in all MS Office programs, with advanced skills in Excel. CAD, PLM, CAM, Catia, digital twin technologies, and ERP systems.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

• Legally able to work in the US.
• Adhere to OSHA, NADCAP, ISO9000 / AS9100, ITAR, FAA regulations and company specific safety standards.

Internal Certifications: Forklift or others deemed appropriate.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods (up to 8-12 hours per shift). Able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25-50lbs regularly, and occasionally heavier weights with assistance.

Must be able to tolerate exposure to manufacturing environments, including moderate noise levels, vibrations, and varying temperatures.

Ability to wear personal protective equipment ae required, Such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

 On the production floor, PPE is required depending on department and product (e.g., gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection).

SAFETY SENSITIVE

This position is designated as Safety Sensitive under Oklahoma law, including the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act. As a result, individuals in this position are subject to drug testing, and the use of medical marijuana—even with a valid license—is not permitted. This designation helps ensure a safe and compliant work environment for all employees.

The company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included.  It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employees’ ability to perform the job successfully.  It is not intended to be construed as an all-inclusive list of duties.  Additional requirements may be assigned as deemed appropriate.  This document does not represent a contract of employment, as the company reserves the right to change the job description and/or tasks as they deem appropriate.

Pryer Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. All candidates for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.