Estimator - Material & Outside Process

Votaw Precision Technologies LLC•Santa Fe Springs, CA

69d•Onsite

About The Position

Votaw Precision Technologies is a trusted leader in the manufacturing of complex precision components, assemblies, and systems for the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. With a strong reputation for technical excellence, quality craftsmanship, and on-time delivery, Votaw supports some of the world’s most demanding programs through its advanced manufacturing capabilities. The company specializes in precision machining, fabrication, welding, and complex assembly operations for mission-critical applications. Votaw Precision Technologies is committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and delivering best-in-class solutions to its customers. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Estimator to join our team, specializing in Material Takeoff and Outside Processing. This role will be crucial in accurately forecasting raw material costs, coordinating material procurement, and managing the quoting process for all outsourced services required for our complex aerospace and defense projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in interpreting technical drawings, a thorough understanding of aerospace materials, and proven experience in vendor management and strategic sourcing.

Requirements

Minimum of 7 years of experience in purchasing, estimating, or materials management within the aerospace and defense manufacturing industry, with a strong preference for experience in a job shop environment.
Direct experience with material takeoff, strategic sourcing, and vendor management for technical services and specialty materials.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex 2D and 3D engineering drawings and specifications, including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
Comprehensive knowledge of various aerospace materials (e.g., aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, stainless steels, Inconel, and other exotic alloys) and their specific raw material forms and procurement standards.
Familiarity with various outside processing methods (e.g., heat treating, NDT, plating, painting) and their associated quality requirements and lead times.
Strong analytical and mathematical skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Process-oriented mindset with the ability to develop and follow standardized estimating and quoting procedures.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and management.
Proficiency with MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook). Advanced Excel skills are highly desirable for cost modeling. Experience with ERP/MRP systems for material tracking and purchasing is a definite plus.
This position requires the use of information or access to hardware subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons as defined by ITAR.
Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills.
Ability to work with limited supervision including using sound judgment to execute independent decisions and departmental initiatives.
Adept at reading, writing, and interpreting technical documentation and procedure manuals.
Highly self-motivated and directed.
Keen attention to detail.
Skilled at working within a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
Ability to learn new technologies and adapt to change.
Minimum 40-hour onsite work week with on-call availability.
Sitting for extended periods of time.
Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, power tools, and to handle other computer components.

Nice To Haves

Advanced Excel skills are highly desirable for cost modeling.
Experience with ERP/MRP systems for material tracking and purchasing is a definite plus.

Responsibilities

Analyze 2D and 3D engineering drawings, specifications, and statements of work (SOW) to accurately determine raw material requirements (material type, size, quantity, and necessary forms like plate, bar, or forgings).
Perform detailed material takeoffs for one-off and low-rate production projects, ensuring minimal waste and optimal cost-effectiveness.
Identify and develop accurate cost estimates for outside processing operations, including but not limited to, non-destructive testing (NDT), heat treating, special coatings, plating, painting, forming, and grinding.
Solicit, compare, and analyze quotes from qualified suppliers and external processors, negotiating optimal pricing and lead times for both materials and OSP services.
Maintain and update a robust database of material costs and outside processing vendor pricing to ensure accurate and timely quoting.
Collaborate closely with engineering, production, quality, and purchasing teams to clarify project scope, identify material alternatives, and ensure customer requirements are being met.
Prepare and present clear and concise estimating reports and summaries detailing material and OSP costs to management and other stakeholders.
Support continuous improvement initiatives in material sourcing and outside processing quoting procedures.
Participate in pre-production meetings to provide input on material availability, OSP lead times, and associated costs.
Support post-project reviews to compare estimated vs. actual costs and identify areas for improvement.
Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and occasionally with customers to clarify requirements and ensure alignment.