Fabrication & Machining Estimator / Project Manager

Job Summary

IMI is seeking a full-time Fabrication & Machining Estimator/Project Manager local to the Athens, GA area. The role combines estimating, project management, customer communication, and production coordination.

Essential Functions

• Review customer RFQs, engineering drawings, specifications, and project requirements.
• Prepare accurate cost estimates for machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, finishing, and outsourced services.
• Calculate material, labor, machine time, setup time, tooling, and subcontractor costs.
• Develop and submit customer quotations within required timelines.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to determine the most efficient manufacturing methods.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and value-engineering solutions.
• Maintain estimating databases, labor standards, and costing information.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers regarding project status, schedules, and technical requirements.
• Assess project risks, technical challenges, and production constraints.
• Analyze actual project costs versus estimated costs to improve future estimating accuracy.
• Support sales efforts by providing technical and pricing information.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, labor utilization, and profitability.
• Manage engineering changes, customer revisions, and scope modifications.
• Conduct project review meetings and provide status updates to customers and management.
• Manage fabrication and machining projects from award through completion.
• Ensure projects meet customer requirements, quality standards, and delivery commitments.
• Coordinate material procurement and subcontractor activities as needed.
• Support production planning and scheduling efforts.
• Aid in developing manufacturing processes that improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitor estimate accuracy and project performance metrics.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing activities.
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards and safety requirements.

Education and Experience

• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in fabrication, machining, manufacturing estimating, project management, or a related role.
• Experience in a job shop, custom manufacturing, or contract manufacturing environment preferred.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining, metal fabrication, welding, assembly, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Knowledge of manufacturing costs, labor standards, and production planning.
• Familiarity with ISO quality systems and lean manufacturing principles is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Effective communication and customer relationship management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

Benefits

• Major medical plans
• Life insurance
• Short & long-term disability insurance options
• A robust company matched 401k
• PTO plans

Work Environment/Physical Demands

• Sitting for extended periods of time
• Stand or walk for long periods of time
• Use arms and hands to reach for, handle or manipulate objects
• Lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds; occasionally lift items weighing more than 50 pounds with assistance
• Manual dexterity needed for repetitive tasks and operating standard office equipment

Benefits

• All IMI Full-Time employees can enjoy the following benefits: major medical plans, life insurance, short & long-term disability insurance options, a robust company matched 401k, and PTO plans.

Company Commitment

• IMI is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.
• We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.