Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

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Summary:
The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and compliant cost estimates for aerospace and defense projects involving federal, state, or military agencies. This role requires deep knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, materials, engineering requirements, and government contracting standards. The Estimator supports proposal teams by preparing detailed cost models in accordance with FAR/DFARS and customer-specific requirements (e.g., DoD, NASA).

Key Responsibilities:

• Review aerospace‑specific RFPs, RFQs, SOWs, technical drawings, and government solicitation documents.
• Develop detailed estimates for aerospace components, assemblies, and systems, including machining, composites, avionics, tooling, testing, and special processes.
• Build cost models for labor, materials, subcontractors, equipment, manufacturing workflows, inspection, and quality assurance.
• Ensure full compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and agency‑specific standards (DoD, USAF, USN, NASA).
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine production complexity and cost drivers.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, program management, and manufacturing to gather data and validate assumptions.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes for aerospace‑grade materials and processes.
• Participate in design‑to‑cost, cost‑reduction, and feasibility analysis for new aerospace programs.
• Prepare pricing summaries, Basis‑of‑Estimate (BOE) documentation, and proposal inputs required for government audits and reviews.
• Support pre‑award and post‑award negotiations, responding to government requests for clarification or cost justification.
• Maintain historical aerospace cost databases and update pricing tools based on industry trends, materials costs, and process innovations.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Estimator within the aerospace or defense industry.
• Strong understanding of FAR/DFARS, cost‑plus and fixed‑price contract structures, and government procurement processes.
• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing workflows (machining, composites, sheet metal, assembly, testing).
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, models, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency in estimating software and ERP systems commonly used in aerospace manufacturing.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with engineering, operations, supply chain, and contracts teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting DoD, NASA, or major aerospace primes (e.g., Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon).
• Knowledge of EVMS, cost accounting standards (CAS), and government audit requirements (DCAA).
• Background in aerospace engineering, manufacturing, or program planning.
• Certifications such as AACE, ASPE, or program cost estimating credentials.

Work Environment:

• Aerospace manufacturing or engineering environment with occasional travel to supplier sites or customer pre‑bid meetings.
• Requires ability to work under strict deadlines and handle sensitive, ITAR‑controlled information.