CNC Estimator

Actalent is looking to hire an Estimator to support an industrial client in the Portland Metro area, focusing on precision machining operations.

About the role

The Estimator will support low-volume, high-complexity machined parts by developing accurate cost and lead-time estimates. This role involves close collaboration with customers, internal manufacturing teams, and vendors, using the client’s ERP system to determine cost, risk, and schedule.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate cost and lead-time estimates for low- to high-volume complex machined parts.
• Build detailed estimates within the company ERP system, including labor, materials, tooling, and outside processing.
• Review and analyze customer prints, CAD models, specifications, and applicable standards.
• Define complete manufacturing approaches based on customer requirements and internal capabilities.
• Identify production risks and cost drivers during the estimating phase.
• Adapt estimates and plans as scope, schedule, or requirements change.
• Maintain a strong customer focus in a custom machining job shop environment.
• Support issue resolution during manufacturing by evaluating root cause and recommending changes.
• Communicate with internal personnel, vendors, and subcontractors as needed.
• Request, review, and manage vendor and subcontractor quotes.
• Prepare and present estimates and cost analyses to management and stakeholders.
• Track and compile actual job costs to support continuous improvement and estimate accuracy.

Requirements

• Estimation and production planning – ideally 5+ years of demonstrated professional experience estimating in an industrial environment.
• Machining expertise, including time estimation for project completion in a machine shop.
• Understanding of machining processes (set-up, run time, etc.).
• Experience as a Machinist.
• ERP and production scheduling knowledge.

Qualifications

• Experience in CNC machining, including prior experience as an operator and/or programmer.
• Experience in a job shop environment producing low-volume, complex parts.
• Prior exposure to estimating or quoting in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong print reading skills with a solid understanding of GD&T.
• Strong math, analytical, and attention-to-detail skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines.
• Project management experience is a strong asset and will help support job planning, coordination, and execution.

Schedule

• Day shift: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• On-site at a shop in the Clackamas, OR area.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/hour. Individual compensation will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

• Sick time, 8 holidays, and 1 week of PTO during the contract (increasing to 2 weeks upon direct hire).
• Eligible benefits may include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan (pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available).
  • Life Insurance (voluntary Life & AD&D for employee and dependents).
  • Short- and long-term disability.
  • Health Spending Account (HSA).
  • Transportation benefits.
  • Employee Assistance Program.