Estimating Specialist

About the role

The Estimator reviews customer requests and develops accurate, timely quotations for metal fabrication projects. This role analyzes technical documentation, evaluates production capabilities, and prepares detailed cost estimates that cover materials, labor, tooling, and outside processing. The Estimator works closely with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure all production processes and quality requirements are fully captured, supporting profitable projects and continuous improvement within the department. This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fond du Lac, WI, fully onsite.

Responsibilities

• Process quote requests from current and potential customers and return completed quotations within required timeframes.
• Review customer prints, 3D models, specifications, work instructions, and other project information to fully understand project scope and requirements.
• Determine whether proposed projects align with the organization's production capabilities, available tooling, and fabrication processes.
• Develop detailed cost estimates that include materials, labor, operation time, tooling, and outside processing for metal fabrication projects.
• Ensure all quotations accurately reflect necessary production processes and customer quality requirements.
• Evaluate projects for overall business fit and identify complex production needs or potential challenges.
• Communicate with internal departments to gather technical input, production data, and scheduling information needed for accurate estimating.
• Coordinate with outside suppliers to obtain accurate pricing and project information for outsourced services and materials.
• Follow supplier-related procedures and documentation requirements in accordance with applicable ISO standards.
• Provide troubleshooting ideas and process-improvement recommendations to support ongoing growth and efficiency within the estimating function.

Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, product drawings, and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of metal fabrication processes, capabilities, and equipment.
• Proficiency in estimation for metal fabrication projects, including materials, labor, and processing costs.
• Strong mathematical skills for performing accurate calculations and cost analyses.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for building and maintaining cost models, quotations, and pricing tools.
• Effective communication skills for working with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Attention to detail to ensure quotations are complete, accurate, and aligned with customer requirements.
• Experience working with metal fabrication, metal forming, and related manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with ISO-related procedures and supplier management processes.
• Ability to analyze complex production requirements and identify potential risks or special considerations.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple quote requests and deadlines simultaneously.
• Continuous improvement mindset with an interest in refining estimating methods and processes.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $30.00 per hour. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)