Estimating Engineer

Overview

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Estimating Engineer to join our dynamic team in Glastonbury, CT. As an Estimating Engineer, you will play a crucial role in our project development process, providing accurate cost estimates and ensuring that our projects are financially viable. If you have a passion for numbers and a keen eye for detail, this is the perfect opportunity for you to make a significant impact in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Responsibilities

This position combines engineering expertise, manufacturing process knowledge and strong analytical skills to develop cost estimates, shape bid strategies and support profitable decision-making. In order to do so, responsibilities will include:

• Develop detailed cost estimates for new and existing products, including:

  • Material and hardware
  • Machining, fabrication, and assembly labor
  • Special processes (heat treat, coatings, NDT, welding, testing)
  • Tooling, fixturing, and inspection
  • Outside services and supplier quotes

• Review and interpret complex mechanical drawings, specifications, 3D models, BOMs, and technical requirements.

• Work closely with Engineering to validate manufacturability and identify design-to-cost opportunities.

• Partner with Production and Operations leaders to understand shop routing, cycle times, capacity constraints, and process flow.

• Collaborate with Supply Chain to obtain supplier quotes and assess cost drivers and lead times.

• Support Program Managers and Business Development teams with technical insight during proposal preparation.

• Build labor hour estimates based on manufacturing methods, part complexity, tolerances, and historical standards.

• Evaluate alternative designs or manufacturing methods to reduce cost and improve manufacturability.

• Maintain and refine cost models and estimating templates to support consistency and accuracy.

• Prepare estimating packages, cost summaries, and basis-of-estimate documentation.

• Participate in bid/no-bid discussions by evaluating risk, complexity, and resource requirements.

• Support customer RFQ responses and pricing strategies to align with margin targets and competitive positioning.

• Assist in negotiations with technical justification for cost elements.

• Analyze actual vs. estimated costs and partner with operations to close gaps.

• Recommend improvements in estimating accuracy, shop processes, or tooling strategies.

• Contribute to lean manufacturing initiatives, value-stream optimization, and standard work development.

• Other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

• Experience with hands-on manufacturing environment, specifically in a machine shop that includes setup and operation of a diverse range of machine tools

• Working knowledge of machining processes, fabrication, assembly, and inspection methods.

• Proficient in cost estimation, time studies, and/or manufacturing labor standards.

• Strong computer proficiency (Office 365) in addition to ERP systems background (Epicor / Kinetic a plus)

• Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical puzzles

• Understands how engineering decisions impact cost, schedule, and customer value

• Excellent 2D & 3D drawing interpretation skills along with a complete understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

• Experience with AS9100, lean manufacturing and continuous improvement technical a plus

• Communication and collaboration skills that rely on partnerships and expertise across functions (i.e. Engineering, Production, Supply Chain, Account Management, Sales)

• This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All accepted applications must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident, Political Asylee, or Refugee).

You should be proficient in:

• Bachelor's Degree
• CAD Software
• AS9100
• CAD/CAM Software
• Blueprint Reading
• Basic Computer Skills

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• ERP Software