Estimating Manager
About The Position
We are seeking an experienced Estimating Manager to lead estimating and quotation activities for aerospace manufacturing programs. The role is responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and profitable cost estimates while partnering with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, Finance, and Operations. The ideal candidate has a strong background in aerospace or precision manufacturing and can translate customer requirements into successful business opportunities. The Estimating Manager leads the estimating process from RFQ through final proposal submission, develops cost estimates and pricing recommendations, analyzes quoted versus actual costs, and improves estimating methods and cost models. The position also coordinates manufacturing and pricing strategies across functions, evaluates supplier and subcontractor quotations, leads and develops the estimating team, and assesses risks affecting long-term aerospace programs. This is a full-time, day-shift position located at the corporate office in Wichita, Kansas. The stated salary range is $80,000–$120,000 per year.
Requirements
- At least 7 years of experience in estimating, costing, pricing, manufacturing engineering, or a related field within aerospace, defense, precision manufacturing, machining, fabrication, or a similar industry.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and associated cost drivers.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, bills of material, and manufacturing requirements.
- Knowledge of labor standards, machine rates, material costs, overhead, subcontracting, and outside processing.
- Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and make sound business decisions in a fast-paced environment.
Nice To Haves
- Aerospace manufacturing experience.
- Experience with CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, welding, assembly, or aircraft components.
- Experience in an AS9100 manufacturing environment.
- ERP/MRP system experience.
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Business, Finance, Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered.
Responsibilities
- Lead the estimating process from RFQ through final proposal submission.
- Review customer drawings, specifications, bills of material, and technical requirements to develop accurate cost estimates.
- Determine labor, material, tooling, outside processing, subcontracting, and other manufacturing costs.
- Develop pricing recommendations that support profitability, competitiveness, and long-term business goals.
- Analyze quoted versus actual costs and implement improvements to estimating methods and cost models.
- Coordinate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Finance to develop effective manufacturing and pricing strategies.
- Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations.
- Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team while managing workload priorities and deadlines.
- Support long-term aerospace programs by evaluating risks associated with labor, material costs, capacity, lead times, and market conditions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance estimating accuracy, efficiency, and overall business performance.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
