Estimator

Job Description

PAGE \* MERGEFORMAT 1 JOB DESCRIPTIONJob Title: EstimatorReports To: VP - OperationsPrepared By: Tim MohsDate: May 12, 2026Position Summary:This position is responsible for analyzing manufacturing projects, calculating costs, and preparing accurate cost estimates for machining and fabrication jobs. They ensure profitability and efficiency by coordinating with engineers, machinists, and customers to meet project specifications.Job Duties / Work Performed: Cost Estimation: Review engineering drawings, material requirements, labor costs, and production time to generate detailed quotes for clients.Quoting and RFQs: Respond to Requests for Quotes (RFQs) by developing competitive, cost-effective quotes for CNC machining and tooling.Blueprint & Specification Analysis: Interpret blueprints, technical specifications, bills of material, and quality documentation to determine manufacturing steps and equipment needs.Production Planning: Estimate manufacturing hours, schedule production cycles, and prepare job packets for shop floor execution.Material and Vendor Management: Source and verify raw materials, negotiate prices, and maintain relationships with suppliers.Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, production, quality, and planning teams to refine estimates and schedules.Database & Recordkeeping: Maintain shop quote, and prototype request databases for internal and external uses.Job Qualifications: Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of machining processes, materials, CNC milling and lathe operations, and tooling requirements.Software Proficiency: Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Pro Shop) and CNC programming is a large plus.Analytical & Problem Solving: Ability to plan, organize, and execute multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.Communication: Clear written and verbal communication skills for presenting quotes and proposals.Math & Time Management: Strong math skills for cost calculations and efficient time management.Physical Demands and Work Environment:Setting: On-site in a manufacturing/machine shop environment, often with moderate noise levels.Physical Demands: May involve standing, sitting, lifting up to 20 lbs, and handling small parts.Work Hours: Full-time with possible overtime in production heavy periods.Salary Range$75,000 to $90,000 for experienced CNC shop estimators.In summary, a Machine Shop Estimator bridges engineering, production, and finance by translating technical specifications into accurate, competitive quotes that support profitable manufacturing.Employee AcknowledgmentDate:The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principle functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation. Title: Estimator Location: South Beloit, IL 61080 Salary: $75,000-$90,000 Hours: Monday - Friday | Standard Business Hours Hire Type: Direct Hire Benefits: A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, paid holidays, and 401(k).Summary: Sterling Engineering is partnering with a growing manufacturing organization in the South Beloit area to hire an Estimator. This role will be responsible for reviewing machining and fabrication projects, preparing accurate cost estimates, supporting RFQs, and collaborating closely with engineering and production teams to ensure competitive and profitable quotes. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of CNC machining processes, blueprint reading, and manufacturing operations within a machine shop environment.Key Responsibilities:Review engineering drawings, material requirements, labor costs, and production timelines to prepare detailed cost estimatesDevelop competitive quotes and respond to customer RFQs for machining and fabrication projectsInterpret blueprints, bills of materials, and technical specifications to determine manufacturing requirementsEstimate production hours and support production planning activitiesSource raw materials and coordinate with vendors regarding pricing and availabilityCollaborate with engineering, production, quality, and planning teams to refine estimates and schedulesMaintain quote databases and prototype request recordsSupport continuous improvement efforts related to estimating accuracy and manufacturing efficiencyQualifications:Previous experience in estimating within a CNC machining or fabrication environmentStrong understanding of machining processes, tooling, CNC milling, and lathe operationsAbility to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawingsExperience working with ERP/MRP systems; Pro Shop experience is a plusStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and time management abilitiesCNC programming knowledge is a plusPhysical Demands:Ability to work in a manufacturing/machine shop environment with moderate noise levelsMay require standing, sitting, lifting up to 20 lbs, and handling small partsFlexibility to work overtime during production-heavy periodsQualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.


Meet Your Recruiter

Sabrina Herrera

Sabrina Herrera is a seasoned Technical Recruiter with a knack for establishing genuine connections with candidates and continuously expanding her expertise in various roles and industries. With one year of dedicated service at Sterling and an impressive 15-year journey in the recruiting arena, Sabrina has become a respected figure in talent acquisition.

As a Technical Recruiter, Sabrina's ability to build strong relationships with candidates sets her apart. She values the opportunity to understand each individual's unique strengths, aspirations, and career goals, ensuring she can guide them toward the most suitable and fulfilling opportunities.

Having spent 15 years in the recruiting domain, Sabrina's experience spans diverse industries and roles. She embraces the challenges of exploring new fields, consistently striving to expand her knowledge and expertise. Her dedication to continuous learning allows her to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and best practices in the recruitment landscape.

Sabrina advises fellow professionals to cultivate a curious mindset and actively seek new challenges and projects that push the boundaries of their abilities. Embracing the unknown and venturing into uncharted territories can lead to personal and professional growth, ultimately elevating one's effectiveness in the field of recruitment.

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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

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