Estimator

Aston Carter•Wichita, KS

13d•$70,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Estimator plays a key role in analyzing requirements, blueprints, and project plans to develop accurate cost, material, and labor estimates for manufacturing projects, with a strong focus on aviation-related work. This position manages a high volume of requests for quotation (RFQs), collaborates closely with vendors and contractors, and presents well-supported cost analyses to leadership. The role offers opportunities for growth and includes full-time benefits within a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Requirements

3+ years of planning and estimating experience in a manufacturing environment, ideally including aviation-related projects.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.
Strong understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing).
Experience using CAD/CAM systems to support estimating activities.
Advanced computer competency with the ability to effectively use Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
Experience working with ERP systems in a manufacturing or production setting.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with individuals inside and outside the organization.
Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and effectively meet deadlines in a high-volume RFQ environment.
Good judgment, problem-solving, and analytical abilities to develop accurate and competitive cost and labor estimates.
Ability to comply with organizational instructions, procedures, standards, and policies while exercising professional discretion.
Demonstrated professionalism and the ability to maintain confidentiality when working with sensitive cost and pricing data.
Commitment to providing excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with manufacturing planning processes and estimating best practices.
Understanding of labor cost drivers and how they impact overall project costs.
Knowledge of organizational mission, purpose, and goals, and how the estimating function supports their achievement.
Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with vendors, contractors, and internal teams.
Comfort working with aviation-related RFQs and industry-specific requirements.
Interest in professional growth within a role that offers long-term development opportunities and full-time benefits.

Responsibilities

Analyze requirement documents, blueprints, and project plans to gain a thorough understanding of each project.
Determine the factors of production that influence the cost of a service or product, including materials, labor, and external services.
Prepare detailed material estimates and cost estimates for products and services in a manufacturing environment.
Create comprehensive labor estimates for projects, including aviation-related work, ensuring accuracy and competitiveness.
Develop and maintain strong working relationships with company vendors and contractors to support accurate pricing and timely quotations.
Manage and organize bids from vendors and contractors, ensuring all information is complete and up to date.
Use bid data and RFQ information to prepare detailed cost analyses that support pricing decisions and project feasibility.
Handle a high volume of RFQs, managing approximately 30 or more requests for quotation per week while maintaining quality and accuracy.
Present prepared estimates and cost analyses to management in a clear, concise, and professional manner.
Communicate effectively with internal teams and external partners to obtain and share information needed for accurate estimating.
Comply with internal instructions, procedures, standards, and policies, exercising professional discretion in all estimating activities.
Provide excellent customer service to internal and external customers by responding promptly and professionally to estimate-related inquiries.
Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in handling sensitive cost and pricing information.
Perform other related duties as assigned to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the estimating function and overall work unit.