Description

Clarence NY 14031

Pay Rate: $60k-$85k per year (Based on Experience)

Job Summary for Estimator:

The Sheet Metal Manufacturing Estimator prepares accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for fabricated sheet metal components and assemblies. This role evaluates manufacturing drawings, material requirements, labor, outside services, and production methods to determine the most cost-effective and profitable approach.

The Estimator collaborates with engineering, production, quality, and customers to clarify technical requirements, assess manufacturability risks, and support revenue growth through accurate and strategic quoting.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities for Estimator:

Reviews and interprets manufacturing drawings, blueprints, and 3D models to determine scope and manufacturability.
Analyzes GD&T and tolerance stack-ups to identify risk, complexity, and cost impact.
Develops detailed cost estimates including material usage, labor hours, machine time, tooling, outside services, finishing, hardware, and assembly operations.
Evaluates alternative production methods to determine the most efficient and cost-effective manufacturing strategy.
Prepares and submits RFQs within required turnaround times while maintaining accuracy and margin objectives.
Communicates directly with customers to clarify specifications, resolve discrepancies, and manage expectations.
Collaborates cross-functionally with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure alignment on technical requirements.
Identifies design risks and recommends cost-saving or manufacturability improvements.
Tracks quote performance, including win/loss trends, and supports continuous improvement of estimating accuracy.
Maintains organized documentation of estimates, assumptions, and supporting calculations within ERP/MRP systems.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Estimator:

Strong ability to read and interpret complex manufacturing drawings and technical documentation.
Solid understanding of GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and manufacturability analysis.
Comprehensive knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes including laser cutting, turret punching, forming/bending, welding, hardware insertion, and finishing/coating operations.
Understanding of material properties and cost drivers in metal manufacturing environments.
Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems, Excel, and estimating software.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent RFQs in a deadline-driven environment.
Strong analytical skills with a high level of accuracy and accountability for estimate profitability.
Effective communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and interact directly with B2B customers.
Organized and detail-oriented with strong prioritization skills.

Experience and Education:

3+ years of estimating experience in sheet metal manufacturing or a related fabrication environment required.
Background in fabrication, engineering, or manufacturing preferred.
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred (or equivalent hands-on experience).

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