Aerospace Manufacturing Cost Estimator

Company Description Radius Aerospace, Inc. is a specialized manufacturer with a strong history in aviation and aerospace forming, welding, bonding, and fabrications. The company serves commercial, military, business jet, and energy markets, producing components for aircraft structures, engines, rotorcraft, and defense-related products. Radius Aerospace operates six manufacturing facilities in the United States and the UK, employing nearly 1,000 team members across one million square feet of manufacturing space.

Role Description This full-time, on-site Aerospace Manufacturing Cost Estimator role is based at Radius Aerospace’s facility in Hot Springs, AR. The individual in this role will analyze engineering drawings, specifications, and process plans to develop accurate cost estimates for aerospace components and assemblies. Daily responsibilities include preparing detailed labor, material, and overhead cost breakdowns, collaborating with engineering, production, and procurement to validate assumptions, and supporting quotations and bids for new and existing programs. The role also involves monitoring actual costs versus estimates, identifying variances, and recommending cost-control measures to improve margin and efficiency. The estimator will contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, maintain cost databases and estimation tools, and provide clear, data-driven reports to leadership and customer-facing teams.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in cost management, including Cost Management and Cost Control skills to develop, track, and optimize manufacturing costs.
• Demonstrated analytical skills, with the ability to interpret technical data, perform cost analyses, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Experience in project estimation, with proficiency in Project Estimation and Budgeting for complex aerospace or manufacturing projects.
• Ability to prepare accurate, timely estimates and budgets using relevant tools (e.g., spreadsheets, ERP/MRP systems, cost estimation software).
• Familiarity with aerospace or precision manufacturing processes, materials, and routing methods strongly preferred.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with engineering, operations, finance, and customer teams.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Prior experience in cost estimating, pricing, or financial analysis within aerospace, defense, or industrial manufacturing is a plus.