Cost Estimator/Planner, Senior

USfalcon • Fort Eustis, VA

1d

About The Position

Support cutting-edge aviation R&D projects as a Cost Estimator/Planner, Senior (aviation/aerospace focus) in Ft. Eustis, VA. This role involves cost estimating, and manufacturing solutioning and planning, in support of aviation systems and subsystems. Position is eligible for up to $5,000 bonus Essential Duties Provide estimating and planning services for test preparation and execution of aviation R&D testing activities. Analyze technical drawings and manufacturing instructions related to aviation systems and subsystems to prepare accurate cost and time estimates. Work closely with program managers, engineers, and designers to clarify details and produce precise estimates for various aviation projects. Review design proposals, offering recommendations for changes or improvements to optimize manufacturability and quality inspection. Identify efficient manufacturing methods or solutions that save time and reduce costs. Ensure tooling, hardware, and necessary information are available for prototype manufacturing and assembly. Prepare labor estimates by analyzing blueprints and sketches for machined and sheet metal formed parts. Use CAD, workflow management, and project planning software to estimate labor costs and schedules for multi-phase research, development, and engineering efforts.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in estimating fabricated and machined parts in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience with engineering / design skills, CAD / CAM experience (needed to interrogate solid models for component size, assembly configuration, and design application)
• Experience in CNC machining to prepare labor and cost estimates by analyzing blueprints and/or concept sketches for machined and sheet metal formed parts and assemblies.
• Experience within the aerospace industry, and understanding of machining tooling, heat treating, welding, sheet metal fabrication, surface treatment, and quality inspection.
• Strong understanding of blueprints, 3D solid models, and military specifications.
• Experience in recommending improvements to design proposals with a focus on manufacturability and quality inspection.
• In-depth knowledge of machining tooling, heat treating, welding, sheet metal fabrication, surface treatment, and quality inspection in the aerospace industry.
• Proficient in PTC Windchill, JobBOSS, Pro Engineering – Creo, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to obtain a secret clearance

Nice To Haves

• 10 years’ Experience with DoD projects, particularly in aviation or missile systems.
• High School diploma or equivalent (higher education or certifications in related fields are a plus).

Responsibilities

• Provide estimating and planning services for test preparation and execution of aviation R&D testing activities.
• Analyze technical drawings and manufacturing instructions related to aviation systems and subsystems to prepare accurate cost and time estimates.
• Work closely with program managers, engineers, and designers to clarify details and produce precise estimates for various aviation projects.
• Review design proposals, offering recommendations for changes or improvements to optimize manufacturability and quality inspection.
• Identify efficient manufacturing methods or solutions that save time and reduce costs.
• Ensure tooling, hardware, and necessary information are available for prototype manufacturing and assembly.
• Prepare labor estimates by analyzing blueprints and sketches for machined and sheet metal formed parts.
• Use CAD, workflow management, and project planning software to estimate labor costs and schedules for multi-phase research, development, and engineering efforts.

Benefits

• Make an Impact: Contribute to cutting-edge aviation R&D projects that directly influence national defense and aerospace technology.
• Mission-Focused Culture: Work with a dedicated team committed to advancing critical defense capabilities.
• Career Growth & Development: Access ongoing professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Innovative Environment: Join a forward-thinking company that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation in defense and aerospace industries.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED