Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist, Cypress

Position Summary
A & E Machine Works Inc. is seeking a highly capable Manufacturing Estimator & Process Strategist to own the accuracy, speed, and strategic impact of our quoting process for precision machining work.
This role develops detailed, executable manufacturing plans prior to quoting, ensuring alignment between estimates and real-world shop performance.
It operates in a fast-paced environment and directly impacts profitability, capacity utilization, and business growth.
The ideal candidate combines hands-on machining and programming experience with strong process thinking, and understands how material sourcing, outside services, and vendor performance directly impact quote accuracy.
Key Responsibilities
RFQ Evaluation & Ownership
Own the technical intake of RFQs by interpreting drawings, specifications, and customer requirements
Evaluate manufacturability, risk, and cost drivers based on real shop capability and workforce skill levels
Prioritize RFQs in a burst-driven environment based on urgency, complexity, and strategic value
Apply company-defined criteria to recommend, prioritize, or decline RFQs based on capability, capacity, and margin
Detailed Estimating & Process Development
Develop detailed estimates including:
Routing and operations
Setup strategy and assumptions
Cycle time estimates
Outside services and special processes
Translate engineering drawings into executable manufacturing plans
Ensure all assumptions reflect real-world execution, not theoretical conditions
First-Run vs. Repeat Production Strategy
Distinguish between first-time inefficiencies and repeat production performance
Account for setup iteration, prove-out time, and process development
Adjust quoting strategy based on expected demand and long-term production potential
Capacity & Capability Alignment
Incorporate machine availability and operator skill levels into all estimates
Ensure quoted work is executable within current shop constraints
Balance short-term workload with long-term operational efficiency
Purchasing & Supplier Coordination
Source and validate pricing for raw materials and outside services (heat treat, plating, coatings, etc.) during the quoting process
Collaborate with purchasing to ensure vendor pricing, lead times, and capabilities are accurately reflected in quotes
Evaluate supplier performance and pricing trends to improve estimate reliability over time
Identify opportunities for cost savings through vendor selection, material strategy, or process alternatives
Ensure outside services and materials align with both cost targets and delivery expectations
Design Review & Manufacturability Improvement
Actively question design intent, tolerances, and manufacturing approach when inefficiencies are identified
Identify opportunities to reduce cost, improve manufacturability, and increase throughput
Collaborate internally to improve processes prior to quoting
Quote Accuracy & Continuous Improvement
Own continuous improvement of quote accuracy by comparing estimated vs. actual results
Identify root causes of variance (especially setup time and first-run inefficiencies)
Refine estimating assumptions using real production data
Maintain a strong feedback loop between estimating and production
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work through the Director of Manufacturing to implement improvements and maintain alignment
Support operators, programmers, and tooling personnel with clear assumptions and planning inputs
Collaborate with purchasing to strengthen supplier alignment and costing accuracy
Sales Support & Win Rate Optimization
Improve win rate through pricing strategy, lead times, and technical positioning
Recommend ways to make proposals more competitive while protecting margin
Support strategic decisions on which opportunities to pursue
Hands-On Validation
Periodically validate assumptions on the shop floor
Observe setups, tooling approaches, and process flow
Incorporate operator feedback and real-world execution into future estimates
Required Qualifications
Hands-on CNC machining experience (mill and/or lathe)
Proven ability to interpret engineering drawings, including GD&T
Experience building detailed estimates including routing, setup, and cycle assumptions
Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and setup strategy
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-variability environment
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Candidates without hands-on machining experience will not be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ERP systems (JobBOSS preferred)
Experience working with vendors and outside service providers
Familiarity with a wide range of materials including aluminum, steels, stainless, and high-performance alloys
Performance Expectations
Quote turnaround speed
Quote accuracy (quote vs actual)
Quote win rate (%)
Work Environment
On-site, fast-paced machining environment
Bursty RFQ workload with shifting priorities
High ownership and accountability