Project Estimator – Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer Estimator

Location:

Elmwood Park, Chicago Salary: $80,000–$120,000 per year (based on experience)

Seeking a Manufacturing Engineer Estimator with experience in precision machining and manufacturing processes. This role is responsible for reviewing engineering drawings, developing manufacturing plans, and preparing accurate cost estimates for custom machined components. The ideal candidate has a strong machine shop background and can balance technical requirements with cost-effective production methods.

• Review blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings to determine manufacturing methods.
• Develop manufacturing routings and process plans for CNC milling, turning, grinding, and inspection.
• Estimate setup times, machining cycle times, labor, material, tooling, and production costs.
• Evaluate outside processing requirements, including heat treating, plating, and specialty coatings.
• Identify manufacturing risks such as tight tolerances, complex GD&T, challenging materials, and tooling requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to ensure accurate and practical estimates.
• Support continuous improvements in estimating accuracy, manufacturability, and quoting efficiency.

• Experience in manufacturing engineering, estimating, or a precision machine shop environment.
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining, machine setup, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T.
• Experience estimating machining cycle times, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software, including Solid Works, AutoCAD, and Mastercam.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems such as Pro Shop, JobBOSS, or similar.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Estimating custom, short-run, or precision-machined components.
• CNC programming or manufacturing process development.
• Job costing, routing development, and machine shop quoting practices.

• Consistently accurate and timely manufacturing estimates.
• Strong understanding of production costs and machining processes.
• Ability to identify manufacturing risks before production.
• Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams to support successful project execution.

If you have a strong machine shop background and enjoy developing accurate manufacturing estimates for precision-machined parts, we encourage you to apply.