Estimator

The Estimator plays a critical role in supporting new business development and product realization by combining technical design expertise with cost estimation capabilities. This role evaluates new opportunities, develops tooling and manufacturing concepts, and prepares accurate cost estimates and quotations for precision metal stamping and related processes.

This position partners cross-functionally with Sales, Engineering, Production, and external suppliers to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and aligned with customer requirements. The role is instrumental in driving profitable growth through accurate quoting, innovative tooling solutions, and strong vendor collaboration.

Duties Responsibilities

• Analyze customer drawings, specifications, and technical data to determine manufacturability and cost drivers
• Develop cost estimates including materials, tooling, outside services, and production processes
• Prepare and submit RFQs to suppliers and tooling vendors; track and follow up to ensure timely responses
• Collaborate with Sales and customers during early product development to optimize design for manufacturability
• Design and develop progressive die tooling and related manufacturing processes
• Modify and improve existing tooling to enhance performance, quality, and cost efficiency
• Evaluate supplier capabilities and manage vendor relationships to ensure quality and delivery expectations are met
• Input and maintain data in ERP/MRP and CRM systems (e.g., Visual Manufacturing, Salesforce)
• Prepare detailed quotes and submit for internal review and approval
• Track quote activity, analyze win/loss data, and identify continuous improvement opportunities
• Serve as a technical resource for internal teams including Sales, Production, and Tool Room
• Communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities

Experience Skills

• 3–7 years of experience in cost estimating, tooling design, or manufacturing engineering within a metal stamping or precision metal forming environment
• Strong understanding of progressive die design, metal stamping processes, and manufacturing methods
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, including GD&T
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks or equivalent) and Microsoft Office tools
• Experience with ERP/MRP and CRM systems (e.g., Visual Manufacturing, Salesforce)
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills, including cost modeling and data analysis
• Excellent problem-solving abilities with the capacity to evaluate multiple variables and develop practical solutions
• Effective communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
• Experience with aluminum extrusion, fourslide forming, automation, or assembly systems is a plus

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical field preferred
• Alternatively, a combination of technical education and relevant estimating/design experience may be considered

Physical Demands Work Environment

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and frequently required to walk, stand, stoop, and reach with hands and arms. Job duties may occasionally require lifting or moving objects up to ten (20) pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Work environment includes both office settings (low noise) and production floor exposure (moderate to high noise levels).