Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist

Position SummaryA & E Machine Works Inc. is seeking a highly capable Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist to own the accuracy, speed, and strategic impact of our quoting process for precision machining work.This role develops detailed, executable manufacturing plans prior to quoting, ensuring alignment between estimates and real-world shop performance. It operates in a fast-paced environment and directly impacts profitability, capacity utilization, and business growth.The ideal candidate combines hands-on machining and programming experience with strong process thinking, and understands how material sourcing, outside services, and vendor performance directly impact quote accuracy.Key ResponsibilitiesRFQ Evaluation & OwnershipOwn the technical intake of RFQs by interpreting drawings, specifications, and customer requirementsEvaluate manufacturability, risk, and cost drivers based on real shop capability and workforce skill levelsPrioritize RFQs in a burst-driven environment based on urgency, complexity, and strategic valueApply company-defined criteria to recommend, prioritize, or decline RFQs based on capability, capacity, and marginDetailed Estimating & Process DevelopmentDevelop detailed estimates including:Routing and operationsSetup strategy and assumptionsCycle time estimatesOutside services and special processesTranslate engineering drawings into executable manufacturing plansEnsure all assumptions reflect real-world execution, not theoretical conditionsFirst-Run vs. Repeat Production StrategyDistinguish between first-time inefficiencies and repeat production performanceAccount for setup iteration, prove-out time, and process developmentAdjust quoting strategy based on expected demand and long-term production potentialCapacity & Capability AlignmentIncorporate machine availability and operator skill levels into all estimatesEnsure quoted work is executable within current shop constraintsBalance short-term workload with long-term operational efficiencyPurchasing & Supplier CoordinationSource and validate pricing for raw materials and outside services (heat treat, plating, coatings, etc.) during the quoting processCollaborate with purchasing to ensure vendor pricing, lead times, and capabilities are accurately reflected in quotesEvaluate supplier performance and pricing trends to improve estimate reliability over timeIdentify opportunities for cost savings through vendor selection, material strategy, or process alternativesEnsure outside services and materials align with both cost targets and delivery expectationsDesign Review & Manufacturability ImprovementActively question design intent, tolerances, and manufacturing approach when inefficiencies are identifiedIdentify opportunities to reduce cost, improve manufacturability, and increase throughputCollaborate internally to improve processes prior to quotingQuote Accuracy & Continuous ImprovementOwn continuous improvement of quote accuracy by comparing estimated vs. actual resultsIdentify root causes of variance (especially setup time and first-run inefficiencies)Refine estimating assumptions using real production dataMaintain a strong feedback loop between estimating and productionCross-Functional CollaborationWork through the Director of Manufacturing to implement improvements and maintain alignmentSupport operators, programmers, and tooling personnel with clear assumptions and planning inputsCollaborate with purchasing to strengthen supplier alignment and costing accuracySales Support & Win Rate OptimizationImprove win rate through pricing strategy, lead times, and technical positioningRecommend ways to make proposals more competitive while protecting marginSupport strategic decisions on which opportunities to pursueHands-On ValidationPeriodically validate assumptions on the shop floorObserve setups, tooling approaches, and process flowIncorporate operator feedback and real-world execution into future estimatesRequired QualificationsHands-on CNC machining experience (mill and/or lathe)Proven ability to interpret engineering drawings, including GD&TExperience building detailed estimates including routing, setup, and cycle assumptionsStrong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and setup strategyAbility to work in a fast-paced, high-variability environmentStrong communication and collaboration skillsCandidates without hands-on machining experience will not be considered.Preferred QualificationsExperience with ERP systems (JobBOSS preferred)Experience working with vendors and outside service providersFamiliarity with a wide range of materials including aluminum, steels, stainless, and high-performance alloysPerformance ExpectationsQuote turnaround speedQuote accuracy (quote vs actual)Quote win rate (%)Work EnvironmentOn-site, fast-paced machining environmentBursty RFQ workload with shifting prioritiesHigh ownership and accountability