Estimator, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineer

JOB TITLE: Estimator

DEPARTMENT: Estimating

REPORTING TO: Director of Estimating

ABOUT LIBRA INDUSTRIES:

Libra Industries is a full-service Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider with decades of experience delivering high-reliability electronic, mechanical, and electro-mechanical assemblies for customers in aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and industrial markets. With facilities in Texas, Ohio, and Mexico, we serve a diverse customer base that depends on us for precision, quality, and on-time delivery.

At Libra, we build more than products - we build long-term partnerships. Our team members work in a collaborative, technically challenging environment where attention to detail matters and individual contributions have a direct impact on customer success.

PRIMARY FUNCTION OF POSITION:

The Estimator serves as the analytical bridge between customer requirements and profitable execution at Libra Industries. This role is responsible for developing accurate, competitive cost models across our manufacturing capabilities including precision machining, electromechanical manufacturing, systems integration, and PCB assembly for customers in aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and industrial markets.

Working closely with Sales, Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, and Quality, the Estimator owns the full quote lifecycle from RFQ receipt through production handoff. We are looking for a seasoned manufacturing professional who leverages data-driven decision making, embraces modern estimating tools, and brings a continuous improvement mindset to everything they do.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

• Analyze RFQ packages, engineering drawings, specifications, bills of material, and statements of work to develop detailed cost estimates.
• Develop comprehensive cost models including labor, materials, outside services, tooling, overhead, and other cost drivers.
• Apply knowledge of machining, fabrication, assembly, PCB manufacturing, finishing, and testing processes to develop accurate manufacturing costs.
• Utilize AI-assisted estimating tools, digital quoting platforms, ERP/MRP systems, and data analytics applications to improve estimating efficiency and accuracy.
• Perform quote-to-quote comparisons, variance analysis, and actual-to-estimate reviews to continuously improve estimating models.
• Evaluate make-versus-buy decisions, material alternatives, volume break pricing, and other cost optimization opportunities.
• Partner with Sales and Business Development teams to identify technical, commercial, and operational risks prior to quote submission.
• Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews and provide cost-related recommendations during early customer engagement.
• Lead quote review meetings with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality teams to align assumptions, risks, and pricing strategies.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain to identify strategic sourcing opportunities, long-lead material risks, and supplier cost reductions.
• Maintain accurate quote records, revision histories, customer communications, and opportunity tracking within ERP, CRM, and estimating systems.
• Monitor quote win/loss performance and analyze market trends to support competitive pricing strategies.
• Identify opportunities to improve estimating processes through automation, AI applications, advanced analytics, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support implementation and adoption of new estimating technologies, tools, and best practices throughout the organization.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, Industrial Technology, or a related field; equivalent manufacturing experience will be considered.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in estimating, manufacturing engineering, cost analysis, or related manufacturing disciplines.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes including CNC machining, fabrication, assembly, PCB manufacturing, testing, and finishing operations.
• Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, specifications, bills of material, and manufacturing documentation.
• Hands-on experience utilizing ERP/MRP systems for labor costing, routing development, BOM management, and production planning.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other analytical tools.
• Experience performing cost analysis, make/buy analysis, variance analysis, and pricing strategy development.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing cost drivers and financial impacts associated with production operations.

SKILLS/EXPERIENCE PREFERRED:

• Experience with in aerospace, defense, medical device, semiconductor, EMS, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
• Comfortable adopting and learning new estimating technologies, including AI-assisted tools and digital quoting platforms; experience with these is a plus but not required.
• A forward-thinking, solutions-oriented mindset with a willingness to participate in process improvement initiatives, including the…