Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Who Is Prince?

Founded in 1959 by Ed Miller near Chicago, Prince Industries has grown from a one-man shop into a global manufacturing partner. With seven facilities across the U.S. and China, we serve industries from hydraulics to aerospace, handling everything from just-in-time components to high-volume assemblies.

At Prince, we don’t just make parts—we solve complex supply chain challenges. We are a strategic partner, focused on helping clients improve products, reduce costs, and simplify operations. Certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and AS9100 standards, we combine quality, innovation, and growth-minded thinking to deliver real value.

Job Summary

The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for contract machining projects. This role requires a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and labor requirements. The estimator will collaborate with engineering, sales, and production teams to ensure competitive and profitable pricing strategies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Review RFQs, drawings, and specs to define project scope and requirements.
• Calculate costs for materials, labor, and outside processes with ERP(Epicor) and Excel calculators.
• Prepare and submit cost estimates and quotations to stakeholders or clients.
• Work with purchasing to get updated material prices and lead times.
• Collaborate with engineering to improve design efficiency and reduce costs.
• Maintain precise records of estimates, assumptions, and historical data for subsequent use.
• Join design reviews and pre-production meetings to confirm cost alignment.
• Monitor developments in material pricing and advancements in manufacturing technologies.
• Evaluates updated customer prints to identify required quote adjustments or impacts on manufacturing.
• Ensures design intent and component quality can be achieved.
• Reviews sourcing of material and suppliers to meet objectives and deadlines.
• Responsible for estimating mixture of low and high-volume manufactured components and assemblies.
• Additional responsibilities assigned by supervisor.
• Contacts customers to resolve technical issues as required. 

Required Skills/Attributes

• Experience with 3D software and nesting software applications.
• Experience with bill of materials and methods of manufacturing.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and technical drawings, including GD&T and specifications.
• Thorough understanding of material classifications and finishing processes.
• Knowledgeable about various plating and heat treatment methodologies.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Proven ability to multitask and manage concurrent projects efficiently.
• Proficient in computer applications, including MS Office Suite, Adobe products, and email correspondence.
• Experienced in utilizing MRP systems.
• Capable of working independently and proactively taking initiative.
• Exhibits a strong work ethic and maintains high motivation levels.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (or related field of study) or 2-year technical certification with equivalent related engineering or machining experience preferred but not required.
• Some previous work experience in engineering or related manufacturing environments.
• Solid background in CNC machining, equipment, and tooling.

Physical Job Requirements

• Regularly required to walk or sit the duration of workday, 8-9 hours.
• Frequently required to perform repetitive hand movements when doing computer work.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision in which 20/20 vision or corrected vision to 20/20 vision is required.
• Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts when in the plant.
• Occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles resulting from metalworking and oils.
• The noise level in the work environment is sometimes loud when working in the plant, in which hearing protection is required.

Due to ITAR regulations, only U.S. persons—defined as U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), and U.S. nationals—are eligible for this position.

*We are an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer. Applicants can learn more about Prince's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster ( )

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Benefits

• Paid vacation and holidays
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans
• Short and Long Term Disability Plans
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with strong employer match
• Company paid life insurance & AD&D
• Partial tuition reimbursement for job relation classes
• PPE reimbursement
• Your specific benefits package will depend on your position, location, and years of service with Prince.