What are the responsibilities and job description for the COST ESTIMATOR position at VanSpeag Group?
Key Responsibilities
- Review customer RFQs (Request for Quotes), technical drawings, and specifications for fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, nuts, specialty components).
- Prepare and issue detailed customer quotes, ensuring accuracy in pricing, specifications, and turnaround time to support the customers.
- Prepare formal quotes and pricing sheets for sales teams and management
- Maintain and update quoting databases, pricing files, and material pricing.
- Conduct cost comparisons and margin analysis to support business decisions
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction and efficiency
- Assist with post-quote reviews and actual vs. estimated cost analysis
Qualifications
- 3 years of experience in cost estimating, preferrable within fasteners, metal forming, or precision manufacturing
- Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize competing projects
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong written communication skills with the ability to create clear, concise, and professional documentation, reports, and correspondence
· High level of attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, reporting, and documentation
- Strong attention to detail in all forms of communication, ensuring accuracy and professionalism
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and customer specifications
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with high-volume fastener production environments
- Familiarity with automotive, aerospace, or industrial fastener standards
- Knowledge of quoting software or cost estimation tools
- Previous cost estimating experience.
- Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software, databases, and internal systems
- Skilled in managing digital files, documentation, and data with strong attention to accuracy and organization
- Comfortable working with technical information, including interpreting specifications, part prints, and system data
- Strategic thinking and continuous improvement mindset
- Experience participating in meetings, presentations, and project discussions
Work Environment
· Primarily office-based with daily use of computers and standard office equipment
· Frequent interaction with cross-functional teams including engineering, production, sales, and management
· Occasional visits to the manufacturing floor to support projects, gather information, or coordinate with production personnel
· Professional setting requiring clear communication, collaboration, and adherence to company policies and procedures
VanSpeag Group LLC (VSG) is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a well-established metal finishing operation in the Rockford, Illinois market. This is a critical leadership role responsible for building and sustaining a high-performance quality culture across a fast-paced, precision-driven manufacturing environment.
Due to the confidential nature of this search, the client name will be disclosed only to qualified candidates who advance in the selection process.
Salary : $55,000 - $69,000