Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist

Position Summary A & E Machine Works Inc. is seeking a highly capable Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist to own the accuracy, speed, and strategic impact of our quoting process for precision machining work. This role develops detailed, executable manufacturing plans prior to quoting, ensuring alignment between estimates and real-world shop performance. It operates in a fast-paced environment and directly impacts profitability, capacity utilization, and business growth. The ideal candidate combines hands-on machining and programming experience with strong process thinking, and understands how material sourcing, outside services, and vendor performance directly impact quote accuracy. Key Responsibilities RFQ Evaluation & Ownership Own the technical intake of RFQs by interpreting drawings, specifications, and customer requirements Evaluate manufacturability, risk, and cost drivers based on real shop capability and workforce skill levels Prioritize RFQs in a burst-driven environment based on urgency, complexity, and strategic value Apply company-defined criteria to recommend, prioritize, or decline RFQs based on capability, capacity, and margin Detailed Estimating & Process Development Develop detailed estimates including: Routing and operations Setup strategy and assumptions Cycle time estimates Outside services and special processes Translate engineering drawings into executable manufacturing plans Ensure all assumptions reflect real-world execution, not theoretical conditions First-Run vs. Repeat Production Strategy Distinguish between first-time inefficiencies and repeat production performance Account for setup iteration, prove-out time, and process development Adjust quoting strategy based on expected demand and long-term production potential Capacity & Capability Alignment Incorporate machine availability and operator skill levels into all estimates Ensure quoted work is executable within current shop constraints Balance short-term workload with long-term operational efficiency Purchasing & Supplier Coordination Source and validate pricing for raw materials and outside services (heat treat, plating, coatings, etc.) during the quoting process Collaborate with purchasing to ensure vendor pricing, lead times, and capabilities are accurately reflected in quotes Evaluate supplier performance and pricing trends to improve estimate reliability over time Identify opportunities for cost savings through vendor selection, material strategy, or process alternatives Ensure outside services and materials align with both cost targets and delivery expectations Design Review & Manufacturability Improvement Actively question design intent, tolerances, and manufacturing approach when inefficiencies are identified Identify opportunities to reduce cost, improve manufacturability, and increase throughput Collaborate internally to improve processes prior to quoting Quote Accuracy & Continuous Improvement Own continuous improvement of quote accuracy by comparing estimated vs. actual results Identify root causes of variance (especially setup time and first-run inefficiencies) Refine estimating assumptions using real production data Maintain a strong feedback loop between estimating and production Cross-Functional Collaboration Work through the Director of Manufacturing to implement improvements and maintain alignment Support operators, programmers, and tooling personnel with clear assumptions and planning inputs Collaborate with purchasing to strengthen supplier alignment and costing accuracy Sales Support & Win Rate Optimization Improve win rate through pricing strategy, lead times, and technical positioning Recommend ways to make proposals more competitive while protecting margin Support strategic decisions on which opportunities to pursue Hands-On Validation Periodically validate assumptions on the shop floor Observe setups, tooling approaches, and process flow Incorporate operator feedback and real-world execution into future estimates Required Qualifications Hands-on CNC machining experience (mill and/or lathe) Proven ability to interpret engineering drawings, including GD&T Experience building detailed estimates including routing, setup, and cycle assumptions