Lead Estimator - Sheet Metal Fabrication Specific

Lead Estimator

• Sheet Metal Fabrication Specific 2793 Metamora Road, Oxford, MI 48371 $52,000
• $73,000 a year
• Full-time $52,000
• $73,000 a year
• Full-time Lead Estimator Position Summary RWCI is seeking an experienced and driven Lead Estimator to support our growing machining and fabrication operations.

This role is responsible for leading the estimating function, preparing accurate and competitive cost proposals, supporting bid strategy, and ensuring alignment between engineering, production, purchasing, and leadership. The Lead Estimator plays a critical role in securing profitable work while maintaining compliance within a regulated defense manufacturing environment. This position requires strong technical knowledge in machining, fabrication, welding, materials, vendor management, and ERP-based cost analysis. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Quoting Prepare accurate and timely cost estimates for machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, coatings, and general labor. Analyze customer RFQs, drawings, specifications, and contract requirements.

Develop detailed cost breakdowns including:

Material Outside processing (coating, paint, laser cutting, waterjet, machining vendors) Labor Tooling Freight Overhead and margin Submit formal quotations and support competitive bid strategies. Utilize customer portals (including Oracle systems) for bid submission and documentation. Maintain accurate estimating records within Job

BOSS ERP.

Vendor & Supplier Coordination Request and evaluate supplier quotes for raw material and outside services. Develop and maintain strong working relationships with machining, coating, laser, waterjet, and specialty vendors. Negotiate pricing and delivery terms when appropriate. Collaborate with Purchasing to ensure alignment between quoted costs and production execution. Technical Review Interpret and analyze blueprints, GD&T, and technical drawings. Evaluate manufacturability in collaboration with engineering and production. Identify cost-saving opportunities through process improvements or alternate methods. Ensure material specifications and compliance requirements are accurately captured. Material & Specification Expertise Strong working knowledge of material substrates including: Mild Steel (Sheet/Plate/Bar/Tube)

ASTM A500 ASTM A513 ASTM A108 ASTM A1011 ASTM A36 ASTM A572 ASTM A656 ASTM A514

Armor Steel

MIL-DTL-46100 MIL-DTL-12560

(Class 1 & 2) Aluminum (All Tempers)

ASTM 5052 ASTM 6061 ASTM 5083 ASTM 5086

Aluminum Armor 5083-H131 (MIL-DTL-46027) Leadership & Process Oversight Lead and standardize the estimating process at RWCI. Support training and development of estimating support staff (if applicable). Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Leadership. Participate in production meetings and planning discussions as needed. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to costing accuracy and workflow efficiency. Systems & Documentation Utilize Job

BOSS ERP

for quoting, job costing, and data analysis. Maintain organized documentation of all bids and supporting data. Ensure estimating practices align with

ISO 9001

quality management standards. Support audit readiness and traceability requirements as applicable. Qualifications Minimum 5+ years of estimating experience in a contract manufacturing environment. Strong background in machining, fabrication, and welding operations. Proven leadership experience.

Proficient in:

Job

BOSS ERP

(or similar manufacturing ERP systems) Microsoft Excel (advanced formulas, cost modeling preferred) Microsoft Outlook & Word Customer portals (including Oracle-based systems) Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and specifications. Strong organizational and communication skills. Experience requesting vendor quotes and managing supplier relationships. Core Competencies Motivated with a "whatever it takes" attitude. Strong attention to detail and cost accuracy. Accountability-driven mindset suited for defense manufacturing. Excellent collaboration and cross-functional communication. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement. Ability to balance competitiveness with profitability. Reporting Structure The Lead Estimator is a salary position and reports to RWCI's Vice President and works closely with Engineering, Purchasing, Production Leadership, and Sales to ensure strategic and profitable growth aligned with RWCI's operational capabilities. We offer premium pay with benefits, including Medical (BCBS), Dental, Paid Vacation Time, Life & Disability Insurance, FSA and 401K plan.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$52,000.00

• $73,000.

00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off

Experience:

Cost management: 1 year (Preferred)

Leadership:

1 year (Preferred) Manufacturing facility: 2 years (Preferred) Estimating /

Quoting:

3 years (Preferred) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required)

Work Location:

In person