Estimator/Buyer – Materials & Outside Processing

Description

Company Background & Summary

Votaw Precision Technologies is a trusted leader in the manufacturing of complex precision components, assemblies, and systems for the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. With a strong reputation for technical excellence, quality craftsmanship, and on-time delivery, Votaw supports some of the world’s most demanding programs through its advanced manufacturing capabilities. The company specializes in precision machining, fabrication, welding, and complex assembly operations for mission-critical applications. Votaw Precision Technologies is committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and delivering best-in-class solutions to its customers.

This hybrid role owns the front end estimating and back end buying activities for raw materials and outside processing. The position performs detailed material takeoff from drawings and specifications, develops costed BOMs and OSP quotes for proposals, and—upon award—executes purchase orders, manages suppliers/special processors, and ensures delivery aligns with operations. Success requires strong print reading (incl. GD&T), deep knowledge of aerospace materials and special processes, and the ability to negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms while maintaining compliance and traceability.

Essential Functions

A. Pre-Award (Estimating) – Materials & OSP

• Analyze 2D/3D drawings, specifications, and SOWs to determine material type, form (plate, bar, forging, casting), sizes, quantities, and yield; perform accurate material takeoffs for prototype and low-rate production.
• Identify required outside processes (e.g., heat treat, NDT, coatings/plating, paint, passivation, grinding, forming) and develop cost estimates and schedule assumptions.
• Solicit, compare, and analyze supplier/processor quotes; normalize assumptions and select optimal sources for proposals (price, lead time, capability, quality).
• Build and maintain costed BOMs and quote back-up; present clear estimating summaries and risk/assumption logs.
• Maintain a pricing database for key materials and OSP services to improve quote speed and accuracy.

B. Post-Award (Purchasing/Execution)

• Issue purchase orders for materials, components, equipment, and services in accordance with established policies; manage critical/complex buys requiring specialized knowledge and certifications.
• Review and approve requisitions; expedite as needed to meet operations schedules; coordinate closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Shipping/Receiving.
• Analyze bids, negotiate pricing, delivery, and terms; select suppliers and evaluate vendor performance and reliability.
• Ensure part delivery supports production; proactively escalate when risk to schedule exists; communicate status and issues to stakeholders.
• Coordinate with Shipping/Receiving for optimal flow; support hardware kitting for manufacturing jobs when needed.
• Manage remnant (REM) inventory: check-in/out, secure storage, identification/traceability.

C. Supplier & Processor Management (Materials/OSP)

• Identify new supply sources for materials and special processing where cost, capability, or delivery improvements are possible.
• Drive continuous improvement in quoting and buying procedures for materials/OSP; perform post-project reviews to compare estimated vs. actuals and capture learnings.
• Partner with Quality to address nonconforming goods/services, identify root cause, and implement corrective actions with suppliers/processors.

D. Compliance, Systems & Documentation

• Use ERP/MRP for demand, PO issuance, status, and reporting; ensure traceability and documentation meet aerospace and customer requirements.
• Adhere to contracts and customer flow downs; maintain accurate supplier records, certifications, and OSP documentation.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills

Formal Education & Certification

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Knowledge & Experience

• 5–7+ years in purchasing, estimating, materials management, or a related supply chain role in an aerospace machining/job-shop environment.
• Proficiency reading complex prints and specifications (including GD&T) and identifying material callouts and special process requirements.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace materials (aluminum, titanium, stainless, nickel alloys/exotics) and raw material forms, with practical understanding of outside-processing methods and typical lead times/quality requirements.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems; working knowledge of BOM structure and demand signals.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills and vendor management; strong communication, organization, and follow-through; able to work with minimal supervision.
• Advanced Excel skills for cost modeling and quote analysis; proficiency with MS Office.
• Familiarity with AS9100/ISO and ITAR/DFARS flow downs; experience working with accredited special-process suppliers.

Additional Requirements

• This position requires the use of information or access to hardware subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons as defined by ITAR. 

Personal Attributes

• Highly self-motivated, adaptable, and proactive in problem-solving and learning new technologies.
• Strong prioritization and execution skills in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Process-driven and disciplined, with a commitment to continuous improvement and company growth.
• Collaborative and effective communicator across technical, operational, and leadership teams.

Work Conditions

• 40-hour onsite work week with on-call availability 
• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, power tools, and to handle other computer components.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Votaw Precision Technologies, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability/Vets.