Project Estimator

Position Summary

We have a Project Estimator opening and are seeking a candidate with proven experience developing bids and quotes for aircraft ground support equipment and other custom metal-fabricated products. The Project Estimator will prepare accurate and timely cost estimates for projects ranging from aerospace to theme parks, sports venues, and other custom-build industries. This role requires exceptional time management, attention to detail, and organizational skills to support a fast-growing manufacturing operation. The Estimator will collaborate across Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Purchasing to develop competitive proposals that align with client requirements and company profitability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review bid documents, blueprints, and conceptual drawings to determine project scope and requirements.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for materials, labor, subcontractors, equipment, and overhead.
• Coordinate estimating activities with Sales, Engineering, Production Control, Manufacturing, and Quality.
• Solicit and evaluate vendor/subcontractor quotes for specialty processes.
• Use platforms such as Teams, SharePoint, or cloud-based project management tools to collaborate on bids.
• Work with operations to refine estimating processes, reduce quote turnaround time, and improve win rates.
• Monitor awarded projects, comparing estimated vs. actual costs and lead times, maintaining an estimate-to-actual database for continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards and requirements (OSHA, ASME, AWS, ISO, etc.).
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive company and customer information.
   

Key Knowledge Areas

1. Technical & Process Knowledge – Welding, machining, fabrication, painting/coating, assembly, finishing; material properties (aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, composites, plastics); blueprint & CAD interpretation; production sequencing; tooling & equipment requirements.
2. Costing Fundamentals – Labor calculation by skill level; material sourcing and scrap factors; overhead allocation; vendor/subcontractor quoting; contingency allowances for custom builds.
3. Industry & Project Specifics – Custom build challenges; standards & compliance; change order handling; client positioning (cost vs. quality).
4. Estimating Tools & Systems – ERP/MRP systems; estimating software (Bluebeam, SolidWorks Costing, Excel templates); historical cost databases.
5. Soft Skills & Business Awareness – Cross-functional communication; vendor negotiation; risk assessment; time management under tight deadlines.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of project estimating experience in custom fabrication, preferably including both materials and labor.
• Strong business acumen with an understanding of cost drivers and profitability.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or other CAD-integrated estimating tools.
• Skilled in factoring material lead times, supply chain impacts, and inflation trends into estimates.
• Advanced time management, organizational, and prioritization skills.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and able to assertively clarify requirements with stakeholders.

JE Technology Solutions, Inc. is a Zero Tolerance Drug Free Workplace. All offers of employment by JE Technology Solutions, Inc. are contingent on completion of a pre-employment drug screening within 2 business days of your offer acceptance and a background check with results in compliance with company policy.

Upon hire, JE Technology Solutions, Inc. uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility for all roles based in the United States.

JE Technology Solutions, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Recruitment Notice:  JE Technology Solutions Inc. is managing all hiring in-house and is not accepting unsolicited resume submissions from external recruiters or staffing agencies currently.