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CNC Machined Parts Cost Estimator

  • Fraser, MI

CNC Machined Parts Cost Estimator

Job Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Pay: $33 - $43 (Based on Experience)
Industry: CNC Manufacturing / Precision Machining

Job Summary

  • The Role: Quotes production parts for aerospace and defense (no tooling). This is a growth area focused on development-stage, low-volume, high-tolerance, and first-article parts (typically 5–20 piece runs).
  • Candidate Profile: Target profile is a machinist with 5–10 years of experience looking to transition into a desk/office role. A background in a prototype or job shop environment is highly preferred.
  • Requirements: GD&T fluency is critical. Must be able to identify impossible-to-machine features, tolerance concessions, and DFM issues upfront. Must understand how coatings and inspection specs (e.g., hard coat anodize pre- vs. post-coating) affect machinability and pricing.
  • Goal: Move the process away from leaning on purchasing for outside quotes and transition to getting hard quotes for everything.

Key Responsibilities

  • Review and analyze customer RFQs, 2D drawings, 3D CAD models, GD&T requirements, and technical specifications for CNC-machined components. 
  • Develop complete cost estimates including material, machine time, cycle time, labor, tooling/fixturing, outside processing, and overhead. 
  • Evaluate manufacturability, cost drivers, engineering requirements, and production processes. 
  • Develop and compare pricing scenarios based on prototype vs. production requirements, production volumes, tooling costs, and amortization strategies. 
  • Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Production to develop accurate quotes and supporting documentation. 
  • Analyze part geometry, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and material specifications including aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, Inconel, composites, and other materials. 
  • Maintain and refine historical quoting and production data to improve the accuracy, speed, and consistency of future estimates. 
  • Support margin analysis, cost-down initiatives, and pricing adjustments during customer negotiations. 
  • Coordinate with suppliers for raw materials, outside processing, finishing, and secondary operations. 
  • Support quoting for prototype, production, and machining services. 
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of quoting processes, templates, cost-modeling tools, and estimating methods. 
  • Perform additional duties and projects as assigned. 

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of cost estimating experience in CNC machining, precision manufacturing, tool & die, or a related production environment. 
  • Strong understanding of machining cost structures, including material utilization, machine rates, setup time, cycle time, labor, tooling, and overhead. 
  • Experience with cost-modeling or estimating software such as Excel, ERP/MRP quoting modules, or similar systems. 
  • Ability to interpret 2D engineering drawings, GD&T, and 3D CAD models. 
  • Working knowledge of CNC machining processes, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis machining, turning, EDM, and secondary operations. 
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with internal teams, customers, and suppliers. 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. 
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple complex quotations simultaneously. 
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. 

Preferred Experience

  • Experience estimating CNC components for aerospace, defense, space, automotive, or other highly engineered manufacturing applications. 
  • Experience with high-mix, low-volume CNC machining. 
  • Experience working with complex machined components and tight-tolerance manufacturing. 
  • Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing quoting software. 
  • Understanding of tooling, fixturing, outside processing, and secondary operations.

Linked, LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences and are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Our goal is to ensure that every employee and applicant is treated with respect and fairness. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates and are committed to making reasonable accommodations to support diverse needs throughout the hiring process. Linked, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to fostering a work environment where everyone can thrive.