Machine Shop Estimator

Job Title:

Estimator

Job Description

The highly organized and detail-oriented Estimator will support precision machining operations. This role is well suited for someone with a strong manufacturing background, including CNC machining and programming experience, job shop exposure, and familiarity with estimating low-volume, high-complexity parts. The Estimator works closely with customers, internal manufacturing teams, and vendors to develop accurate cost and lead-time estimates. All jobs are quoted using the company ERP system, with complete job information entered to determine cost, risk, and schedule.

Responsibilities

* Prepare accurate cost and lead-time estimates for low- to high-volume complex machined parts.

* Build detailed estimates within the company ERP system, including labor, materials, tooling, and outside processing.

* Review and analyze customer prints, CAD models, specifications, and applicable standards.

* Define complete manufacturing approaches based on customer requirements and internal capabilities.

* Identify production risks and cost drivers during the estimating phase.

* Adapt estimates and plans as scope, schedule, or requirements change.

* Maintain a strong customer focus in a custom machining job shop environment.

* Support issue resolution during manufacturing by evaluating root cause and recommending changes.

* Communicate with internal personnel, vendors, and subcontractors as needed.

* Request, review, and manage vendor and subcontractor quotes.

* Prepare and present estimates and cost analyses to management and stakeholders.

* Track and compile actual job costs to support continuous improvement and estimate accuracy.

Essential Skills

* Experience in estimation and production planning.

* Understanding of machining processes, including set-up and run time.

* Time estimation for project completion in a machine shop.

* Production scheduling skills.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

* background in CNC machining, including prior experience as an operator and/or programmer.

* Experience in a job shop environment producing low-volume, complex parts.

* Prior exposure to estimating or quoting in a manufacturing setting.

* Strong print reading skills with a solid understanding of GD&T.

* Strong math, analytical, and attention-to-detail skills.

* Good written and verbal communication skills.

* Ability to manage multiple priorities and competing deadlines.

* Project management experience is a strong asset and will help support job planning, coordination, and execution.

Work Environment

Work onsite at the shop in Clackamas, OR during day shift hours from Monday to Friday, 8am-4:30pm.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Clackamas, OR.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• 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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Clackamas,OR.

Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 23, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.