Estimator (Part Time - Project Based)

RTCA • Sumner, WA

3h • $30 - $35 • Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator prepares accurate, competitive cost estimates and quotations for aerospace machined components and assemblies. Working from customer drawings, specifications, and RFQ packages, the Estimator develops manufacturing routings, cycle and setup times, material and outside processing costs, and tooling needs. The role partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Contracts, and Customer Accounts to deliver quotes that win business and can be built profitably.

This is a part-time, project-based position at RTCA’s Sumner, Washington location. The role supports aerospace and defense RFQs for new parts, repeat orders, and engineering changes. The Estimator also builds and maintains quote-related BOMs and routings in the ERP/MRP system, supports contract reviews and customer questions, and uses actual job-cost results to improve estimating standards and databases.

The position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, so a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

Requirements

• Several years of estimating, manufacturing engineering, or CNC machining experience in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of CNC milling and turning processes, setups, cycle times, and machine capabilities.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
• Working knowledge of aerospace materials and common special processes.
• Experience developing routings, labor estimates, or cost models.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with close attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ERP/MRP systems.
• Must meet Export Control compliance requirements as a “US Person” under 22 C.F.R. § 120.15.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience quoting for aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
• Experience estimating multi-axis, Swiss, grinding, honing, or assembly operations.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software for reviewing models and estimating cycle times.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 and customer flow-down requirements.
• Lean manufacturing or cost/value engineering experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cost estimates and quotations for aerospace and defense RFQs, including new parts, repeat orders, and engineering changes.
• Review customer drawings, models, specifications, and RFQ packages to define scope, material, special processes, and quality requirements.
• Develop manufacturing routings and estimate machine cycle times, setup times, labor content, and inspection requirements.
• Obtain and evaluate quotes for raw material, hardware, and outside processing with Supply Chain.
• Estimate tooling, fixturing, programming, and first article inspection (AS9102) costs and lead times.
• Coordinate with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, and Quality to confirm manufacturing approach, machine capability, and capacity assumptions.
• Build and maintain multi-level BOMs and routings in the ERP/MRP system for quoted and awarded work.
• Support contract reviews, quote clarifications, and customer questions with Contracts and Customer Accounts Managers.
• Identify manufacturing risks, cost drivers, and opportunities to improve competitiveness and margin.
• Compare actual job costs to estimates and use results to refine estimating standards and databases.
• Maintain organized quote files, estimating records, and quote status tracking.
• Take on tasks outside normal duties when needed and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan.
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions.
• Basic and supplemental life insurance.
• Long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine paid company holidays.
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts.
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed