Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer / Cost Estimator – Stamping, Fabrication & CNC Machining

About the company
We are a leading manufacturing company specializing in metal stamping, custom fabrication, and CNC machining. We serve diverse industries with high-quality precision components and value-driven production solutions. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a detail-oriented Manufacturing Engineer / Cost Estimator to join our team and support accurate quoting, competitive pricing, and efficient project planning.

Position Summary
The Manufacturing Engineer / Cost Estimator is responsible for analyzing customer requirements, engineering drawings, and specifications to develop accurate cost estimates and pricing proposals for stamped, fabricated, and machined components. This role collaborates closely with Engineering, Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain to ensure quotes are competitive, achievable, and aligned with company capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Quoting
• Review engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine manufacturing requirements.
• Develop cost estimates for stamping, fabrication, and CNC machining operations, including labor, machine time, tooling, materials, and outside services.
• Prepare formal quotes and pricing proposals within required deadlines.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and propose alternative manufacturing methods where beneficial.

Technical & Process Analysis
• Determine appropriate manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling for each project.
• Estimate cycle times, setups, yields, and scrap factors based on standard manufacturing practices.
• Work with Engineering to evaluate manufacturability and clarify design requirements.
• Assist in creating or updating process routings and BOMs as needed.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Communicate with Sales to support customer inquiries and clarify project requirements.
• Coordinate with Purchasing to obtain accurate material and subcontractor pricing.
• Partner with Production and Tooling to validate feasibility and production methods.
• Participate in design reviews, kickoff meetings, and supplier discussions.

Data Management & Continuous Improvement
• Maintain accurate costing databases, labor rates, and machine hour standards.
• Track win/loss results of quotes and adjust estimating assumptions as needed.
• Support continuous improvement efforts involving cost reduction, standardization, and workflow optimization.

Qualifications

Required
• 3+ years of experience in cost estimating, manufacturing engineering, or related roles.
• Strong knowledge of metal stamping, sheet metal fabrication, and/or CNC machining processes.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, tolerances, GD&T, and engineering specifications.
• Proficient with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and time-management abilities.

Preferred
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Technology, or related field.
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing concepts and cost-reduction methodologies.
• Automotive Tier 1 & 2 background preferred.
• Project Management Experience
• Background in tooling cost estimation for stamping or machining.

Work Environment
• Office setting with regular interaction across production floors.
• Occasional supplier visits or customer discussions as needed. <10% travel.

Why Join Us?
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Opportunity to influence pricing strategies and production planning
• Stable, growing company with a strong reputation in precision manufacturing
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture