Production Estimator

Primary Function

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and pricing for complex, precision-manufactured components and advanced manufacturing assemblies. This role ensures compliance with ITAR and CMMC requirements while reviewing project opportunities and assembling comprehensive estimates that include labor, materials, purchased items, and outside services based on customer RFQs. The Estimator also communicates directly with customers regarding solicitations and requests for quotes.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, realistic, and achievable estimates for hours, materials, outsourced operations, and costs to deliver competitive quotes
• Determine pricing and lead times for all quotations
• Analyze labor, material, tooling, overhead, outside processing, and scheduling impacts to develop cost-effective and accurate quotes
• Source and obtain quotes from vendors for materials, coatings, hardware, and additional processes required for projects
• Maintain and update estimating databases, standards, and historical cost data
• Identify cost risks, assumptions, and opportunities for cost reduction or process improvement
• Utilize 3D modeling software and 2D prints to analyze projects and assembly quotations
• Collaborate with internal departments and managers to ensure quotations meet budget feasibility, cost efficiency, and producibility standards
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and job performance analysis meetings.
• Ensure all estimation activities comply with ITAR, CUI, CMMC, and company information security policies
• Safeguard controlled technical data and properly handle export-controlled information
• Support strategic sales growth initiatives with new and existing aerospace customers.
• Assist with customer negotiations and post-award cost reviews as needed
• Work independently, manage deadlines under pressure, and contribute effectively in a team environment
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• High school diploma/GED, certificate in Machine Tool Technology, or a minimum of five years of relevant work experience required
• Experience in process engineering, quality assurance, aerospace, and precision machining required
• Strong understanding of machining, fabrication, assembly, and special processes used in aerospace or advanced manufacturing
• Ability to read 2D blueprints and proficiency in GD&T
• Proven experience estimating aerospace tooling, complex assemblies, or multi-process parts; flight hardware experience preferred
• Proficiency in 3D modeling software (e.g., Enovia, Catia, JT2Go, Siemens NX); Enovia/Catia experience preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and ability to learn additional systems as needed
• Proficiency in HubSpot or similar CRM software (i.e., Salesforce, Zoho CRM, etc.) preferred
• Familiarity with government or defense contracting requirements
• Experience working in ITAR-regulated and CMMC-compliant environments, including handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
• Strong communication and time management skills
• Ability to travel as required
• Ability to pass drug and background checks in compliance with applicable laws

Compliance Requirements

• This position may have access to various types of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and/or information and tangible items subject to U.S. export controls, as well as be subject to certain customer/contractual requirements. Therefore, the individual selected for the position may be required to meet certain citizenship, immigration, and/or location-related requirements, as well as screenings, background checks and additional training. The Company, in its sole discretion, will determine whether to seek a contractual waiver or regulatory export authorization if required.
• Must comply with CMMC requirements, including adherence to information security policies and CUI handling procedures
• Existing security clearance (Secret or higher) or eligibility for clearance is a plus

Physical Demands

The physical demands listed are representative of those required to perform the essential job functions. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Employees frequently stand, walk, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and work from ladders or scaffolds; sitting is occasional. The role requires regularly lifting to 10 pounds, frequently up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds. Close vision is required.

Work Environment

The work environment described reflects typical conditions encountered in this role. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Employees are regularly exposed to electrical shock hazards and frequently to moving mechanical parts.

Attention: Third-Party Recruiters

Lincoln Electric does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters. Resumes submitted without a signed vendor agreement become the property of Lincoln Electric. No fees will be paid unless recruiting efforts are coordinated through the Recruiting Department.

Disclaimer

Employment is contingent upon meeting applicable qualifications, as determined by the Company, as well as adhering to all relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described, and may be modified at any time at the Employer’s sole discretion.