Proposal Estimator / Cost Manager

About the role

The Proposal Estimator / Cost Manager will analyse mechanical drawings, GD&T documentation and assembly specifications to produce accurate cost estimates for complex industrial equipment. You will work closely with engineering, production and commercial teams to ensure proposals are technically sound and financially competitive.

Key responsibilities

• Interpret detailed mechanical drawings, GD&T and assembly specifications.
• Develop bottom‑up cost estimates for structural, mechanical, electrical and purchased sub‑assemblies.
• Evaluate machining, fabrication, assembly, testing and commissioning processes to define labor hours and routing.
• Collaborate with engineering and production to validate cycle times and resource requirements.
• Perform should‑cost analysis for machined components, weldments and complex assemblies.
• Build and maintain multi‑level Bills of Materials with complete cost roll‑up structures.
• Standardise cost breakdown structures across product lines and identify high‑impact cost drivers.
• Interface with suppliers to obtain technical quotations, assess capabilities and compare costs.
• Maintain labour standards, material pricing databases and standard costing assumptions.
• Support design‑to‑cost initiatives and provide technical cost input during product development.

Required profile

• 5‑10 years of experience in machine tools, CNC systems or precision manufacturing environments.
• Strong ability to read and interpret complex mechanical drawings and GD&T.
• Deep understanding of machining, fabrication, assembly, testing and commissioning processes.
• Experience with cost modelling, manufacturing routings and standard costing methodologies.
• Proficiency working with BOM structures, ERP and MRP platforms.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related technical discipline is preferred.

Required skills

• Mechanical drawing interpretation
• Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Cost modelling and should‑cost analysis
• Manufacturing routing and labour estimation
• Standard costing techniques
• BOM management
• ERP system usage
• MRP platform usage
• CNC machining process knowledge