Estimator

Description

Job Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for sheet metal fabrication projects. This role analyzes customer drawings, specifications, and requirements to determine material, labor, tooling, and overhead costs, supporting timely and profitable quoting. The Estimator works closely with sales, engineering, and production teams to ensure feasibility and accuracy of quotes.

Key Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, drawings, blueprints, and specifications
   
• Develop detailed cost estimates for sheet metal fabrication, including:
   
  • Raw material (sheet metal types, thicknesses, coatings)
     
  • Labor (cutting, forming, welding, assembly, finishing)
     
  • Tooling, fixtures, and setup
     
  • Outside processing (plating, painting, laser cutting, etc.)
     
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and bills of materials
   
• Determine manufacturing processes and routing based on part requirements
   
• Utilize estimating software, ERP/MRP systems, and Excel to prepare quotes
   
• Collaborate with engineering and production to validate manufacturability and costs
   
• Communicate with suppliers to obtain material and outside service pricing
   
• Support sales with pricing strategy, lead times, and technical clarifications
   
• Maintain estimating databases, pricing models, and cost standards
   
• Track quote success rates and provide feedback for continuous improvement
   
• Participate in cost-reduction and process-improvement initiatives
   

Qualifications & Skills

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, engineering, or related field preferred
   
• 3+ years of estimating experience in a sheet metal or fabrication environment preferred
   
• Strong understanding of sheet metal processes such as laser cutting, turret punching, bending, welding, and finishing
   
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
   
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel
   
• Experience with estimating software a plus
   
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills
   
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
   
• Effective communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
   

Physical & Work Environment

• Office-based role with frequent interaction on the shop floor
   
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
   
• Occasional lifting of drawings or sample parts up to 25 lbs
   

Preferred Experience (Nice to Have)

• Knowledge of GD&T
   
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles
   
• Experience working with custom or low-to-mid volume production