Estimating Lead

We are seeking an experienced Estimating Lead to oversee estimating operations within an aerospace manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for developing accurate, data-driven cost estimates and customer quotes for manufactured aerospace parts, evaluating new business opportunities, and managing customer contracts and long-term agreements.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience preparing quotes for manufactured parts within an aerospace manufacturing company, a strong understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes and cost structures, and a proven track record of leading and developing a team. This role works closely with the General Manager and other departments to maintain estimating accuracy, meet customer requirements, improve processes, and support overall profitability.

Location: Auburn, WA

Compensation: $105-130K, DOE

Schedule: Monday- Friday 6am-2:30pm

Classification: Exempt

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee daily estimating department operations, including workload distribution, employee development, and performance management.
• Prepare and review detailed cost estimates and customer quotes for manufactured aerospace parts in response to Requests for Quote (RFQs) and recurring customer orders.
• Evaluate new business opportunities, conduct make-versus-buy analyses, and provide recommendations to support competitive and profitable bidding decisions.
• Analyze customer drawings, blueprints, OEM specifications, GD&T requirements, manufacturing processes, tooling, materials, labor, and special processes to develop accurate cost estimates.
• Evaluate direct and indirect costs, pricing structures, and other factors affecting product costs and profit margins.
• Manage and review long-term agreements and customer contracts, including pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, material and finished-part requirements, quality clauses, flow-down requirements, and contract amendments.
• Communicate with internal departments and external customers to clarify requirements, address inquiries, and support successful contract execution.
• Oversee projects from initial quotation through final execution, ensuring deadlines, customer requirements, and quality standards are met.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, and other departments to ensure estimating processes and customer purchase orders align with applicable AS9100 quality system requirements.
• Establish, maintain, and improve estimating procedures to ensure consistency, accuracy, and alignment with company objectives.
• Ensure estimating personnel complete required training and follow established procedures and quality standards.
• Mentor, train, and coach team members while promoting accountability, continuous improvement, and consistent departmental performance.
• Support the General Manager with project management, contract proposals, agreement renewals, and other operational initiatives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Operations Management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Required aerospace manufacturing experience , including direct experience preparing estimates and creating customer quotes for manufactured parts within an aerospace manufacturing company.
• 3–7 years of experience in aerospace manufacturing or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 5 years of supervisory experience managing five or more direct reports , including employee development, workload management, conflict resolution, and performance oversight.
• Demonstrated knowledge of aerospace manufacturing and assembly processes, tooling, special processes, OEM specifications, and manufacturing techniques.
• Proficiency in blueprint interpretation, technical drawings, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience managing long-term agreements and customer contracts, including pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, material and finished-part requirements, and contract amendments.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing cost structures, job costing, cost markups, gross margin calculations, and profitability analysis.
• Experience reviewing RFQs, evaluating bid opportunities, and supporting customer pricing decisions.
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality system requirements and aerospace customer specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, benefits available, vision optional,
• Company paid Life/AD&D for employee only ($10,000 benefit)
• Voluntary Life/AD&D for employee, spouse and child(ren)
• Voluntary STD for employee only
• LTD is 100% company paid for salaried employees only

Additional Requirements

This position is subject to applicable U.S. export control laws and regulations. Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements applicable to the controlled work involved.

The position is primarily performed in an office environment, with occasional exposure to manufacturing conditions, including noise, dust, fumes, chemicals, and varying temperatures. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds may be required. Employees must follow established safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment in designated areas.

TruFit Staffing is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. TruFit Staffing is an ALE and offers a Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plan in compliance with ACA rules and regulations.