Cost Estimator

Job Title : Cost Estimator

Type : Direct Hire - W2, Benefited

Location : Santa Ana, CA - Onsite

Compensation : $82,500 - $110,000 / yr.

Company & Role Summary :

With over fifty years of proud service to the aerospace, defense, and medical device industries, our client is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Cost Estimator to join their team. This role involves analyzing technical drawings, engineering specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, and labor estimates for precision machining and manufacturing projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in precision machining processes from ISO 9001, ISO 13485, or AS 9100 manufacturing environments and proficiency in production cost analysis. Strong communication skills are key, as this role will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate and competitive estimates.

Key Responsibilities :

• Analyze technical drawings, blueprints, and project documents to understand scope, requirements, and develop accurate time, material, and labor cost estimates.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, sales, and procurement teams to gather necessary information, resolve technical challenges, and ensure competitive quotes.
• Determine required manufacturing processes, machine setups, tooling, materials, and outside processing for producing components and assemblies.
• Prepare detailed and competitive cost breakdowns for labor (machining and assembly), material, and production lead-time to support bidding and pricing decisions.
• Manage the Request for Quotation (RFQ) process, ensuring timely and accurate submissions, and follow up on the status of submitted quotes (won / lost / other).
• Research and incorporate supplier, subcontractor, and vendor quotes into overall cost estimates, maintaining relationships with vendors and contractors.
• Perform cost analyses of completed jobs and maintain organized records of cost estimates and historical data to improve future accuracy and efficiency.
• Source and obtain pricing for materials, plating, hardware, and other job requirements, presenting prepared estimates to company leadership.
• Stay updated on industry trends, machining technologies, materials, and advancements to enhance estimation accuracy.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend process improvements in manufacturing.

Minimum Requirements :

Preferred Qualifications :

Salary : $82,500 - $110,000