Technical Sales Estimator

JOB SUMMARY: The Technical Sales Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for machining and fabrication projects while driving new business growth. This role requires a unique blend of technical estimating expertise and proven sales experience. While Sales Support is the first point of contact for customer inquiries, the Sales Estimator works directly with customers to address questions about current in-house jobs, upcoming opportunities, and to build relationships that lead to new business. The ideal candidate will be comfortable collaborating with shop floor supervisors to ensure quotes are accurate, timelines are realistic, and opportunities for growth are pursued, while also engaging directly with customers to support active and upcoming jobs.

Key Responsibilities

Quotation & Estimation

- Review RFQs, blueprints, CAD models, and specifications from customers.

- Develop accurate cost estimates, including materials, machining time, labor, tooling, and outside services.

- Submit detailed and competitive quotations through ERP systems (Global Shop Solutions preferred).

- Collaborate with programming and production to verify manufacturability, capacity, and lead times.

Customer Interaction & Support

- Partner with Sales Support for seamless handoff of new inquiries.

- Serve as a customer-facing resource for questions about active projects and upcoming jobs.

- Build and maintain long-term customer relationships through responsiveness, professionalism, and technical credibility.

Sales & Business Development

- Leverage sales experience to generate new business, including identifying leads, networking, and expanding customer accounts.

- Maintain consistent follow-up on open quotes to maximize conversions.

- Track win/loss ratios and provide input on pricing strategies.

- Contribute to annual sales goals by securing new opportunities and increasing quote-to-order success rates.

Collaboration & Reporting

- Work closely with Sales Support, Procurement, Programming, and Shop Supervisors.

- Provide feedback to leadership on competitive landscape, customer needs, and market trends.

- Support order handoff to ensure smooth transition from quote to production.

Qualifications

- Required

- 3–5 years of experience in estimating within a machine shop.

- 3–5 years of sales or customer-facing business development experience.

- Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings, prints, and CAD files.

- Proven track record of generating new business and managing customer accounts.

- Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (Global Shop Solutions preferred).

- Preferred

- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or related field.

- Knowledge of CNC machining processes (milling, turning, welding, fabrication, finishing).

- Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and relationship management skills.

Continuous Improvement:

- Actively participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and certification programs to enhance job-related skills and knowledge, as required.

- Perform all other duties as assigned or required to support the team's goals and maintain efficient office operations.

Physical Requirements

- Primarily office/computer-based work with occasional time on the shop floor to review processes.

- Ability to sit, stand, and walk in a production environment.

- May occasionally lift up to 25 lbs. of prints, binders, or documents.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Dental insurance

- Employee discount

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Referral program

- Vision insurance

Education:

- High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

- Manufacturing Estimating : 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person