Manufacturing and Cost Estimator

Key Responsibilities

Organize and prepare quotes and proposals packages for customers in formats such as MS PowerPoint, MS Word, and Epicor ERP system and coordinating input from business development, engineering, and operations stakeholders.
Manufacturing Process Planning: Identify routing steps and operational sequences across core processes—including polymer/rubber molding, urethane/silicone casting, composite lamination/bonding, CNC machining/routing, laser cutting, and subsystem kitting/assembly.
Review customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, blueprints, and related documentation to determine scope of work and requirements.
Develop manufacturing plans by identifying required processes, equipment, tooling, programming requirements, setup operations, materials, labor hours, and outside processing needs.
Prepare accurate cost estimates and quotations based on established labor rates, overhead rates, material costs, and supplier pricing.
Evaluate manufacturing requirements for CNC machining, fabrication, composites, and other aerospace manufacturing processes.
Identify and obtain pricing from approved outside processing suppliers based on customer and drawing requirements.
Interpret technical specifications, quality clauses, material requirements, and customer requirements to identify potential risks and ensure compliance.
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to understand production capabilities and develop effective manufacturing approaches.
Prepare formal price and delivery quotations for internal and external customers.
Communicate with customers, suppliers, and internal teams regarding quotations, requirements, and project updates.
Follow up on open RFQs and proposals, updating quotations as needed.
Maintain accurate RFQ and proposal tracking records to support reporting and key performance indicators.
Support the development and maintenance of work instructions for new and existing programs.
Perform risk assessments and identify potential cost, schedule, and manufacturing challenges.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with customers and suppliers.
Support continuous improvement initiatives and estimating process improvements.
Follow 5S standards and adhere to all health, safety, and environmental guidelines.
Support cross-functional operations as needed.

Required Qualifications

6+ years of machine shop estimating and quoting experience for medium to high complexity aerospace or precision manufacturing parts. Solid experience utilizing cost models and/or formulas that incorporate pre-determined Overhead, G&A and profit rates. 
Experience estimating and quoting CNC machining operations, including CNC milling and turning processes.
Strong ability to read, interpret, and analyze engineering drawings, specifications, bills of material, and manufacturing documentation.
Knowledge of tooling requirements, machining processes, and production planning methods.
Experience estimating and quoting within a low-to-medium volume job shop manufacturing environment.
Experience using ERP systems related to manufacturing planning and quoting activities.
Strong understanding of machining various materials including metallics, plastics, composites, honeycomb core, and ablative materials.
Strong understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and technical drawing interpretation.
Ability to identify manufacturing requirements, develop solutions, and resolve technical challenges.
Ability to understand inspection methods, measurement tools, and quality requirements.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation.
Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal English with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
Ability to work independently with limited supervision while supporting team objectives.
Ability to maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with JobBoss or similar manufacturing ERP systems.
CNC programming experience.
Aerospace manufacturing estimating experience.
Experience working in an AS9100 certified manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of aerospace quality requirements and customer flow-down requirements.
Experience with composites, thermal protection systems, or advanced manufacturing materials.

Additional Requirements

Must have professional working proficiency reading, writing, and speaking English
Ability to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environments with occasional exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, industrial equipment, and temperature variations
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer workstation
Frequent use of hands and fingers for data entry, keyboarding, and mouse use
Ability to view computer screens for prolonged periods
Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via email
Ability to use a computer to complete assignments 

Job Details

Type: Full Time Exempt

Hours: Core Business Hours Monday through Friday. Schedule and overtime may vary based on business needs.

Base Salary Range: $75,000 - $90,000  

Base Location: Riverside, CA - 100% onsite

Travel: Occasional travel may be required based on business needs.