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Job Description
Estimator III Peak Technology Enterprises Inc San Jose, CA Job Details Full-time $40 - $50 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Career development plan Vision insurance 401(k) matching Opportunities for advancement Life insurance Qualifications Mechanical blueprint interpretation Teamwork Machining fixtures High school diploma or GED Mechanical drawings Math Attention to detail Cost estimate preparation Customer support CNC Full Job Description Senior Estimator (Estimator III) At Peak Technology Enterprises, we manufacture highly engineered precision components and assemblies that support some of the most demanding industries. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction drives everything we do. We are seeking an experienced and technically skilled Senior Estimator (Estimator III) to lead our estimating function and play a key role in supporting strategic growth, customer success, and operational excellence. This position is ideal for a seasoned manufacturing professional with extensive experience in CNC machining, plastics fabrication, and precision manufacturing. The Senior Estimator serves as the technical and commercial expert for cost estimating, partnering closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Purchasing, and Sales teams to develop accurate, competitive, and profitable quotations for customers. Position Summary The Senior Estimator (Estimator III) leads the cost estimating function for CNC-machined parts, plastic-fabricated components, assemblies, prototypes, tooling, and outsourced manufacturing processes. This highly skilled position is responsible for analyzing complex engineering drawings, developing detailed cost models, validating manufacturability with technical teams, and preparing accurate and competitive quotations. As a key contributor to pricing strategy and customer support, the Senior Estimator serves as the subject matter expert in estimating while supporting continuous improvement initiatives and mentoring junior estimating personnel. Job Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following: Advanced Quoting & Cost Modeling Prepare highly detailed and accurate cost estimates for complex, multi-step machining and fabrication projects. Analyze engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T requirements, critical dimensions, and tight-tolerance specifications.
Develop comprehensive cost breakdowns including:
CNC machining operations (2-axis, 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining where applicable) Plastic machining, bonding, forming, polishing, and fabrication processes Tooling, fixtures, custom workholding, and setup requirements Secondary processes such as plating, coating, marking, heat treating, and finishing Assembly, inspection, and quality verification requirements Material utilization, scrap factors, and yield calculations Build and maintain cost models for prototypes, high-mix/low-volume manufacturing, and recurring production programs. Evaluate manufacturing methods and recommend the most efficient and cost-effective production approaches. Cross-Functional Technical Collaboration Collaborate with CNC programming, machining, fabrication, assembly, and quality teams to validate manufacturing processes, cycle times, and labor requirements. Partner with Engineering to assess manufacturability and recommend design improvements that reduce cost and improve efficiency. Work closely with Purchasing to obtain competitive pricing for materials, subcontracted services, and outsourced processes. Support operational teams in reviewing technical requirements and identifying manufacturing risks during the quotation process. Customer & Commercial Coordination Serve as the primary technical resource for customer RFQs and complex estimating inquiries. Participate in customer meetings to discuss pricing drivers, manufacturing considerations, lead times, and value-added solutions. Assist Sales and Business Development teams in developing competitive pricing strategies while maintaining profitability goals. Provide timely responses to customer questions related to quotations and manufacturing capabilities. ERP/MRP & Data Management Maintain and continuously improve quoting templates, labor standards, machine rates, routing structures, and estimating databases. Accurately enter and maintain estimates, routings, and costing information within ERP/MRP systems. Analyze historical quotation data to improve estimating accuracy, identify trends, and maintain market competitiveness. Ensure all quote documentation is organized, traceable, and compliant with internal procedures. Strategic & Continuous Improvement Identify and implement improvements to estimating processes, cost models, standard labor operations, tooling libraries, and pricing methodologies. Recommend cost reduction opportunities without compromising product quality, performance, or manufacturability. Support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, workflow optimization, and quoting reliability. Participate in strategic pricing discussions and profitability analysis for key customer programs. Leadership & Mentorship Provide training, guidance, and technical support to Estimator I and Estimator II team members. Review and validate estimates prepared by junior estimators for technical accuracy, consistency, and commercial viability. Help standardize estimating procedures, templates, best practices, and departmental documentation. Serve as a technical resource and mentor across multiple functional teams. Teamwork & Culture Demonstrate and uphold Peak Technology Enterprises' Core Values and Behavioral Fundamentals in all activities. Maintain a strong commitment to quality, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. Exhibit a sense of urgency, accountability, and ownership while consistently meeting deadlines. Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to support additional business needs when required. Maintain dependable attendance, punctuality, and professionalism. QualificationsEducation High School Diploma or GED required. Associate degree, technical degree, manufacturing technology degree, or equivalent technical training preferred. Experience Minimum of 5-10 years of estimating experience within CNC machining, plastics fabrication, precision manufacturing, or related industries. Proven experience estimating complex machined and fabricated components, assemblies, and prototypes. Experience working within high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of CNC machining processes, tooling selection, feeds and speeds, workholding methods, and manufacturing best practices. Advanced knowledge of plastics machining and fabrication processes. Thorough understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T). Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and ERP/MRP systems. Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to prioritize and manage multiple high-priority RFQs in a fast-paced environment. Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Preferred Qualifications Experience with 5-axis machining environments. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software and manufacturing simulation tools. Experience supporting aerospace, semiconductor, medical device, defense, or other high-precision industries. Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience. Prior leadership or mentoring experience within an estimating or manufacturing environment. Why Join Peak Technology Enterprises? Work with advanced manufacturing technologies and challenging technical projects. Collaborate with talented engineering and operations professionals. Make a direct impact on business growth, customer success, and profitability. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement. Be part of a culture focused on innovation, teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. Peak Technology Enterprises is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive and contribute to our continued success.
Pay:
$40.00 - $50.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Vision insurance
