Project Estimator – Manufacturing Engineer

Project Estimator – Manufacturing Engineer

Job Overview

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer with expertise in precision machining to lead our estimating function. This is a strategic, technical role for a professional who combines deep shop-floor knowledge with the ability to develop accurate manufacturing estimates and practical production plans. The ideal candidate will drive manufacturing accuracy, efficiency, and profitability through expert process planning, cost estimation, and collaboration with engineering and production teams.

This position requires a technically strong professional who understands precision machining and CNC operations, confidently reads blueprints and GD&T, has hands-on welding and fabrication knowledge, accurately calculates machining times, and leverages AutoCAD or SolidWorks to support effective manufacturing estimates and production planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Review blueprints, engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements.
• Determine manufacturing methods and develop process plans for CNC milling, turning, grinding, and inspection.
• Calculate setup and machining cycle times, particularly for milling and turning.
• Estimate labor, materials, tooling, machining, and production costs.
• Evaluate outside processing such as heat treating, plating, and specialty coatings.
• Identify manufacturing risks involving tolerances, GD&T, materials, and tooling.
• Prepare accurate estimates for custom and precision-machined components.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure estimates are practical and manufacturable.
• Improve estimating accuracy, manufacturability, and quoting efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent technical discipline).
• Hands-on manufacturing and machine shop experience in a precision machining or custom manufacturing environment.
• Custom manufacturing estimating experience—proven ability to develop accurate cost and labor estimates.
• Strong blueprint and GD&T interpretation skills.
• Knowledge of welding and fabrication, including fabrication prints.
• Strong experience with CNC machining and machine setup.
• Experience calculating machining setup and cycle times for milling and turning.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or SolidWorks.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Mastercam or other CAM programming experience.
• CNC programming or manufacturing process development experience.
• Experience setting up and operating milling and turning equipment.
• Experience estimating custom, short-run, or precision-machined components.
• Knowledge of job costing, routing, and machine shop quoting.
• Familiarity with manufacturing ERP/MRP systems.
• Experience with large or complex machined parts.

Compensation

$80,000–$120,000 per year, based on experience, technical skills, and education.