Estimator

Job Title: Engineering Estimator

Location: Prestwick (with occasional travel to other sites)

Salary: £35,000 - £37,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About the Company

Our client is a leading precision tooling company based in Prestwick, Scotland, renowned for delivering high-quality precision manufacturing. With a modern facility and a strong emphasis on creativity, innovation, and quality, the company has built an outstanding reputation in the industry. Due to continued growth, they are looking for an Engineering Estimator to join their dynamic team.

Role Overview

The Engineering Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for machine shop projects. This includes evaluating project specifications, determining materials, labour, and equipment costs, and providing detailed quotations to support the company's production and sales teams. You will work closely with engineers, production staff, and suppliers to ensure estimates are competitive and aligned with quality standards and project timelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Review Project Specifications: Analyse technical drawings and customer requirements to determine project scope and feasibility.
• Cost Estimation: Prepare accurate cost estimates for machining, including direct and indirect costs (labour, materials, overhead, and equipment use).
• Supplier & Material Pricing: Research and evaluate suppliers to determine raw material, tooling, and component costs.
• Labour & Equipment Costing: Estimate labour hours and determine appropriate machine costs for each project.
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks (e.g., material shortages, machine downtime, regulatory changes) that could impact project cost or delivery.
• Proposal & Quotation Preparation: Develop and present detailed proposals and quotations to clients and internal teams.
• Collaboration: Work closely with engineers, production managers, and sales teams to clarify project requirements and discuss cost-saving strategies.
• Cost Monitoring & Adjustment: Compare actual production costs against estimates, analyse variances, and refine future estimates accordingly.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on industry trends, manufacturing advancements, and market conditions to maintain competitive and accurate estimates.
• Documentation: Maintain organised records of estimates, quotes, and project scope changes.
• Client & Internal Communication: Act as the primary point of contact for questions related to estimates and quotations.

Key Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in an estimating role within a machine shop or manufacturing environment.
• Relevant Mechanical or Industrial Engineering experience (certifications in cost estimation or manufacturing processes are a plus).
• Strong knowledge of machining processes (CNC, lathes, milling, grinding, etc.).
• Proficiency in estimating software and ERP systems (experience with CAD software and spreadsheets is highly beneficial).
• Excellent understanding of materials, tooling, and equipment costs.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interactions with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• A problem-solving mindset with the ability to adjust estimates based on project changes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.

What's in it for You?

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Permanent role with a 39-hour workweek.
• 33 days holiday per year (including bank holidays).
• Early finish on Fridays.
• Death in Service benefit.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Pension scheme.
• On-site parking.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Engineering Estimator looking for a new challenge within a high-quality precision manufacturing environment, we would love to hear from you!

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.