Cost Estimator

Cost Estimator

Company: RSA Engineered Products LLC

Primary

Location:

1451 N Johnson Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020 USA

Workplace Type:
On-site

Employment Type:

Salaried | Full-Time

Function:
Purchasing

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled

Job Description: We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Estimator to join our dynamic team in the aerospace and defense industry. The Estimator will play a key role in supporting various functions and initiatives within the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Develop precise, competitive Firm Fixed Price (FFP) estimates for build-to-print aerospace, power generation, or space parts
• Refine estimates by monitoring awarded jobs, incorporating real-time performance insights, and assessing risks to improve future quotes
• Develop detailed cost estimates and proposals for metal fabricated assemblies based on customer RFQs and RFPs
• Analyze blueprints, CAD models, parts lists, and specifications to determine manufacturing requirements
• Collaborate with internal teams, suppliers, and subcontractors to gather cost inputs, including materials, labor, tooling, and outside services
• Estimate labor hours and material costs for engineering and manufacturing tasks, establishing key assumptions, basis of estimate (BOE), learning curves, and risk factors such as scrap, rework, and warranty
• Analyze repeat jobs for profitability and efficiency improvements
• Work closely with engineers and procurement to develop a consolidated, priced bill of materials (BOM)
• Create rough process routers or statements of work (SOW) to outline manufacturing steps and ensure accurate cost estimates
• Monitor awarded jobs to refine estimating processes, incorporating real-time performance insights and risk assessments
• Document and communicate estimate details to ensure a seamless transition from quoting to manufacturing
• Apply Weldmac’s cost estimating processes and metrics to develop competitive quotes
• Act as a strategic advisor in cost estimating, resolving customer inquiries, identifying issues, and driving innovative solutions to complex estimating challenges
• Other duties as assigned

This role is required to be on-site 5 days at the El Cajon, CA location.

Education & Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in cost estimating, preferably in aerospace, defense, or precision metal fabrication industries
• Proven experience interpreting blueprints, CAD models, and customer specifications
• Experience with Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contracts and quoting for RFQs/RFPs

Preferred Education:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Aerospace

Technical

Skills:

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes including machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly
• Proficiency in cost estimation tools and ERP/MRP systems
• Ability to develop detailed BOMs and process routings
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices

Other Key

Competencies:

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Self‑motivated with a proactive approach to problem‑solving
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Clear and effective communication skills to interface with engineering, procurement, suppliers, and customers

In compliance with all states and cities requiring transparency of pay, the expected pay range for this position is $100,000 - $115,000.

Compensation can vary depending on several factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, competencies, and geographic location. Some roles may qualify for extra incentives like equity, commissions, or other variable performance‑related bonuses. Further details will be provided by our recruiting team during the interview process.

Benefit offerings include Medical Insurance and Prescription Drugs, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Short‑Term Disability, Long‑Term Disability Insurance (for eligible employees), Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Paid Time Off (may include vacation and sick time), Retirement Program, and Other Voluntary Benefits.

for more information: