Find Jobs
Find Jobs Near You – Available Work in Your Location
Skip to job details
This position offers an exciting opportunity for growth within our organization while contributing to innovative projects in the manufacturing sector. If you are passionate about precision work and enjoy collaborating with diverse teams, we encourage you to apply.
EC
Elite CA Staffing Agency
Machine Shop Estimator
Career Insights for Estimator
See where this job fits in the broader career landscape. Knowing your career path helps you see what's possible from here.
Scorecard
Based on California data
Review key factors to help you decide if this role fits your goals. How is this calculated?
What they do
An Estimator provides cost estimates for a project, based on an evaluation of the materials, labor, time and equipment needed to complete the project. May specialize in many aspects of construction or in manufacturing and design industries.
$85,160 / year median in California
+2% projected growth
Job Description
MACHINE SHOP ESTIMATOR
Job Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to join our team . The ideal candidate will be responsible for analyzing project requirements and preparing accurate, competitive cost estimates across materials, labor, and equipment utilization. You will work cross-functionally with engineering, purchasing, and production teams, ensuring that all estimates reflect current capabilities, industry standards, and customer expectations. The ideal candidate has strong machining knowledge and a forward-thinking mindset to help improve and evolve our quoting process over time.Key Responsibilities:
Analyze blueprints, technical drawings, and customer specifications to determine project scope and production needs. Develop accurate labor and material estimates for machining and fabrication projects based on established production methods and actual cycle times. Evaluate in-house capabilities and external vendors to determine the most efficient and cost-effective path for each job. Calculate required dimensions, tolerances, and material volumes to ensure precision in quotes. Prepare detailed, itemized cost estimates covering labor, material, tooling, and overhead. Work closely with vendors and the internal purchasing team to secure competitive material and service pricing. Evaluate supplier and subcontractor bids to support procurement decisions. Ensure all cost estimates comply with company policies, industry standards, and customer requirements. Collaborate with stakeholders to identify potential cost savings and production efficiencies. Monitor actual costs post-award and adjust estimating models to improve accuracy and quoting strategies. Drive continuous improvement in the quoting process, including the exploration and implementation of AI-based tools, automation techniques, and data-driven pricing models. Support manufacturing and engineering initiatives as needed.Requirements:
Deep understanding of machining processes, manufacturing workflows, and material behavior. Proven experience estimating in a job shop environment, ideally with exposure to fabrication and machining operations. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex technical drawings and customer specifications. Proficiency with cost estimation tools and ERP/MRP systems, including QuickBooks. Advanced Microsoft Excel and general Microsoft Office Suite skills. High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy. Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced, custom-production environment. Strong communication and negotiation skills, with a collaborative mindset. Proactive, self-starter attitude with a sense of urgency and continuous improvement focus.Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge and experience in conventional machining Knowledge and experiencie in fabrication (sheetmetal) Technical degree or certification in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. Experience using or implementing automation tools in quoting or cost estimation workflows. Familiarity with fabrication and machining systems.This position offers an exciting opportunity for growth within our organization while contributing to innovative projects in the manufacturing sector. If you are passionate about precision work and enjoy collaborating with diverse teams, we encourage you to apply.