Estimator

Job Description 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. The position manages a high volume of requests for quotation (RFQs), collaborates closely with vendors and contractors, and presents well-supported cost analyses to leadership. Opportunities for growth and full‑time benefits are available within a dynamic manufacturing environment. Job Title Estimator Responsibilities Analyze requirement documents, blueprints, and project plans. Determine factors of production influencing cost, including materials, labor, and external services. Prepare detailed material and cost estimates for products and services in a manufacturing environment. Create comprehensive labor estimates for projects, including aviation-related work. Develop and maintain strong working relationships with company vendors and contractors. Manage and organize bids from vendors and contractors, ensuring completeness and timeliness. Use bid data and RFQ information to prepare detailed cost analyses supporting pricing decisions and project feasibility. Handle a high volume of RFQs, managing approximately 30 or more requests 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. Provide excellent customer service to internal and external customers by responding promptly and professionally to estimate-related inquiries. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive cost and pricing information. Perform other related duties as assigned to ensure efficient and effective functioning of the estimating function and overall work unit. Essential Skills 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 Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Experience working with ERP systems in a manufacturing or production setting. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong time‑management skills, capable of prioritizing tasks and meeting 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 confidentiality when working with sensitive cost and pricing data. Commitment to providing excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders. Additional Skills & Qualifications Familiarity with manufacturing planning processes and estimating best practices. Understanding of labor cost drivers and their impact on 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. Work Environment This position is based onsite in a manufacturing facility in downtown Wichita, Kansas, near Kellogg and McClain. It operates in a hands‑on production environment with close collaboration with engineering, planning, and operations teams. The role involves extensive use of ERP systems, CAD/CAM tools, and standard office software to manage RFQs and develop estimates. The environment supports professional growth and offers full‑time employment with benefits. Job Type & Location Permanent position based out of Wichita, KS. Pay And Benefits Pay range: $70,000 – $85,000 per year. 401(k) retirement plan. Health, vision, and dental insurance. Paid time off, sick leave, and holiday pay. Workplace Type Fully onsite position in Wichita, KS. Application Deadline Position anticipated to close on Jun 26, 2026. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The company is an equal‑opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr