CNC Manufacturing Estimator

CNC Manufacturing Estimator

Champaign Main - Champaign, IL

Salary Range $65,000.00 - $85,000.00 Salary/year Job Shift Day Category Sales

Wagner Machine Company is a growing manufacturer of precision-machined parts for industries including aerospace, defense, electronics, and semiconductors. We are seeking a technically capable, customer-focused CNC Manufacturing Estimator to develop accurate quotes, help customers solve manufacturing challenges, and build lasting business relationships.

Reporting to the CEO, this role is central to turning challenging customer requirements into practical, cost-effective manufacturing solutions. You will collaborate closely with sales, quality, production, and leadership teams to quote work accurately, communicate openly, and support profitable growth.

What You'll Do

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through responsive service and practical technical solutions
• Develop accurate, comprehensive cost estimates for custom manufacturing projects
• Review customer 2D drawings, 3D models, CAD files, tolerances, and specifications
• Evaluate part geometry and tolerances for manufacturability; recommend design-for-manufacturability improvements when appropriate
• Develop efficient manufacturing process plans and identify cost-saving process options
• Calculate material requirements, labor, tooling, outside services, lead times, and other quoting inputs
• Prepare and submit formal proposals and quotations for customer review
• Clearly communicate pricing, capabilities, risks, opportunities, and lead times with honesty and integrity
• Generate and close business while maintaining Wagner's standards and core values
• Maintain accurate records of sales activity, customer interactions, quotations, and project details
• Account for applicable industry standards, customer-specific requirements, and contract clauses
• Collaborate with sales, quality, production, and management to ensure complete documentation and alignment with customer expectations
• Improve estimating processes, quoting tools, and supporting documentation
• Perform other duties as assigned

What You'll Bring

• Qualification as a U.S. person under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
• Ability to pass a physical, drug screen, and background check
• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least three years of CNC manufacturing experience; estimating, inside sales, CNC operations, engineering, or other advanced manufacturing experience is preferred
• Advanced ability to read engineering drawings, interpret tolerances, and apply GD&T
• Practical knowledge of precision-machining processes, tooling types, and manufacturing techniques
• Ability to make sound manufacturability decisions and identify potential production risks
• Familiarity with 2D and 3D CAD software for viewing and dimensioning parts
• Experience with ERP software and Microsoft Office
• Understanding of manufacturing standards and the ability to translate them into practical production requirements
• Familiarity with customer contract clauses and customer-specific requirements
• Strong analytical, quantitative, organizational, and time-management skills
• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and build productive relationships with coworkers, customers, and vendors
• Interest in staying current on machining technology, tooling strategies, and automation

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with one or more of the following is a plus:

• LEAN manufacturing or 5S environments
• ISO
  9001 or AS9100D-certified businesses
• ECi M1 ERP software
• CRM software
• CAD/CAM software, including Solid Works, Draft Sight, Feature CAM, Power Mill, or Part Maker
• Small, precision CNC-machined parts
• Machining-process troubleshooting
• Lights-out automation or robotic part handling

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $65,000–$85,000, depending on experience.

Wagner Machine Company offers health and dental insurance, 401(k) options, paid vacation, paid holidays, parental leave, short- and long-term disability coverage, company-subsidized apparel, a four-and-a-half-day workweek, and breakfast every Thursday.

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