Estimator

About the Role

An established UK engineering manufacturer seeks a skilled Estimator to join their Purchasing team based in Cheshire East. The company has a strong international presence, serving over 50 countries with precision engineered products across sectors such as oil & gas, energy, subsea, and emerging technologies.

The Estimator is expected to have a solid background in engineering, estimating, or technical purchasing, with the ability to interpret engineering drawings and accurately price machining components. Experience working closely with or within machine shops is essential, particularly understanding metal machining processes, material pricing, and supplier negotiations.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate precise and competitive cost estimates for machined components and key commodities like forgings, fasteners, and metals based on customer inquiries and engineering drawings.
• Analyze material, labor, and machining costs to produce accurate pricing.
• Evaluate supplier quotations and identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
• Engage with machine shops and suppliers to negotiate favorable commercial terms, ensuring competitive pricing and lead times.
• Manage supplier relationships, constantly monitoring capacity and delivery schedules.
• Verify that components meet the required technical and quality specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering, purchasing, and operational departments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Utilize ERP systems for managing purchasing and costing data effectively.
• Make occasional visits to suppliers as needed.

Candidate Requirements

• A degree or recognized qualification in engineering.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in engineering, estimating, or technical purchasing roles.
• Demonstrated ability to cost machined components, ideally from sectors such as precision engineering, oil & gas, aerospace, or machining environments.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings.
• In-depth understanding of machining processes, machine shop operations, and material costs.
• Experience in direct engagement with machine shops and engineering suppliers.
• Strong negotiation skills aimed at challenging supplier pricing and reducing costs.
• Awareness of how machining time and material usage influence component pricing.
• Solid computer literacy and familiarity with ERP software.
• Holder of a full UK driving license with access to a personal vehicle for supplier visits.

Benefits and Additional Information

• Salary range between £50,000 and £60,000, depending on experience.
• Healthcare cash plan, including support for medical and eye care expenses.
• Life insurance with death in service benefit of twice the salary.
• Pension contributions with 5% from employees and 4% from the employer.
• 31 days of holiday inclusive of bank holidays, with increases based on length of service.
• Christmas shutdown period.
• Prospects for long-term career advancement within an established engineering manufacturing company.
• Opportunity to make a significant commercial impact in a dynamic engineering environment.