Estimator

Estimator – Metal Fabrication & Machining

Location: West Branch, IA | Full-Time | Day Shift (7 AM – 3:30 PM)Benefits: Health Insurance, PTO, Paid Holidays, SIMPLE IRA with Matching

At Newport Industries, our EPIC core values — Excellence, Partnership, Innovative, and Customer-Centric — guide everything we do. As an Estimator, you’ll be more than just the numbers person; you’ll be a key link between our customers and our production team, ensuring every quote is precise, competitive, and sets the stage for a successful project.

This role is all about delivering Excellence through accuracy, working in Partnership with team members and customers, finding Innovative ways to streamline estimating processes, and keeping our work Customer-Centric by making sure projects start with the right scope, price, and timeline.

What You’ll Do

- Review blueprints, drawings, and project specifications to determine scope

- Calculate material, labor, and machine time for each job with help from our operations and engineering specialists

- Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates within deadlines

- Collaborate with operations, construction project managers, and customers to clarify requirements

- Maintain and update pricing databases for materials and shop labor rates

- Track quotes and follow up to improve win rates

- Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend process improvements

- Step in to help with installations and deliveries, prep, or assembly when workload demands it.

Must-Have Skills & Experience

- Fabrication, welding, or machining background — able to read blueprints and understand shop processes

- Strong math skills with attention to detail

- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic estimating software

- Ability to work independently and manage multiple quotes at once

- Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences

Preferred

- Experience as an estimator in a manufacturing or fabrication environment

- Engineering background or manufacturing engineering experience

- Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and cost-reduction strategies

What Success Looks Like in 12 Months

- Accurate, on-time quotes with minimal revisions

- Increased quote-to-win ratio

- Reduced delays from inaccurate pricing or scope definition

- Improved collaboration between estimating, operations, and sales

Living Our EPIC Core Values

- Excellence: Producing precise, timely, and professional estimates that set every project up for success.

- Partnership: Working closely with colleagues and customers to align on scope, cost, and expectations.

- Innovative: Continuously refining estimating processes to save time and improve accuracy.

- Customer-Centric: Understanding customer priorities and ensuring every quote reflects their needs and goals.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k) matching

- Health insurance

- Paid time off

Work Location: In person