Precision Sheet Metal Cost Estimator

Picture your morning: a new RFQ lands in your inbox for a complex precision metal assembly. You open the drawings, scan the specifications, and start mapping the most efficient path from raw stock to finished part—always keeping aerospace and industry standards front and center. Your estimates set the tone for competitive pricing, healthy margins, and customer confidence.

What a typical day looks like

• Translate customer prints and technical requirements into complete cost models covering materials, labor, machine time, tooling, and any outsourced processes.
• Validate manufacturability with engineering and production to ensure the proposed approach is practical, efficient, and aligned with internal capabilities.
• Leverage historical performance and current capacity to forecast realistic costs and delivery schedules.
• Develop and deliver formal quotations on time, accurately capturing scope and pricing.

Partner across the supply chain

• Collaborate with procurement to obtain current material pricing and lead times.
• Compare and challenge supplier quotes to confirm competitiveness and reliability.
• Monitor market trends affecting metals, finishing, and logistics to keep estimates current.

Continuously improve the estimating engine

• Enhance templates, tools, and workflows to raise accuracy and speed.
• Record key assumptions, pricing logic, and scope notes for every estimate.
• Join post-quote reviews to capture lessons learned and feed them back into best practices.

Collaborate to win—and deliver

• Work closely with sales, customer service, quality, engineering, and operations to align quotes with customer expectations and company capabilities.
• Provide technical and pricing support during proposals.
• Prepare a thorough handoff package to the executive management team and production when jobs move from quote to build.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in estimating or manufacturing cost analysis, ideally in precision sheet metal or related sectors (aerospace, defense, automotive).
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Working knowledge of fabrication processes: cutting, forming, welding, finishing, and assembly.
• Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office; strong Excel skills required.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specs.
• Exceptional attention to detail, analytical mindset, and clear communication.

Your work ensures each quote is competitive, profitable, and aligned with customer needs while supporting compliance with aerospace and industry standards.