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Machining Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Estimator

Hartford, WI

$75K - $95K/yr

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to support custom machining and metal fabrication projects. This role is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates by evaluating material ...

New

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Estimator

South Beloit, IL

$75K - $90K/yr

This role will be responsible for reviewing machining and fabrication projects, preparing accurate cost estimates, supporting RFQs, and collaborating closely with engineering and production teams to ...

Mach3

Machine Shop Estimator

Cuyahoga Falls, OH · On-site

Requirements: · Strong understanding of machining processes, job shop workflows, and material behavior. · Proven experience estimating machining work in a job shop or custom manufacturing ...

Advance Mfg. Co.

Estimator

Westfield, MA · On-site

Advance has immediate openings for Individuals to estimate labor, material, shop lead time, and NRE ... Must have knowledge of metals, machining, and welding techniques. Must have knowledge of manual ...

Verstela

Estimator | CNC

Mesa, AZ

Looking to move beyond the machine and into a high-impact, strategic role? If you have 5+ years of CNC machining and estimating experience, this Estimator opportunity could be your next step. This ...

Delva Tool & Machine

Estimator

Riverton, NJ · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Position Summary Delva Tool & Machine is seeking an Estimator for our Cinnaminson, NJ location. The Estimator will serve as the strategic relationship owner for some of Delva's most important and ...

Finn-Kool

Estimator

Beloit, KS · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

The Estimator ensures quotes reflect realistic machining processes, material costs, outside services, and labor requirements while supporting sales, production, engineering, and management teams.

Finn-Kool

Estimator

Beloit, KS · On-site

The Estimator ensures quotes reflect realistic machining processes, material costs, outside services, and labor requirements while supporting sales, production, engineering, and management teams.

Finn-Kool

Estimator

Beloit, KS

The Estimator ensures quotes reflect realistic machining processes, material costs, outside services, and labor requirements while supporting sales, production, engineering, and management teams.

United Tool LLC

Estimator

Pewaukee, WI

If you have a strong background in cost estimation and a passion for precision machining, we would love to hear from you. Position Type: Duties and responsibilities: · Receive and review RFQs from ...

Advantech Industries Inc.

ESTIMATOR

Rochester, NY · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an Estimator to develop accurate cost estimates and production timelines for CNC machining projects to support competitive pricing and profitable project execution. DUTIES ...

Consolidated Machine & Tool

Estimator

NJ · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Position Summary Delva Tool & Machine is seeking an Estimator for our Cinnaminson, NJ location. The Estimator will serve as the strategic relationship owner for some of Delva's most important and ...

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Machining Estimator information

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$35.5K

$83K

$135K

How much do machining estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for machining estimator in the United States is $83,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machining Estimator vs Machinist?

AspectMachining EstimatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, sometimes certifications in CAD or manufacturingHigh school diploma, technical training, apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, reviewing blueprints, preparing cost estimatesManufacturing floor, operating machines, setting up equipment
Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing companies, suppliers, and job shops for quotingEmployed directly in machine shops, factories, or production facilities
Primary FocusEstimating costs, quoting jobs, project planningOperating and maintaining machining equipment, producing parts

While both roles are integral to manufacturing, a Machining Estimator focuses on cost analysis and quoting, working mainly in an office environment. In contrast, a Machinist is hands-on, operating machines on the shop floor. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right career path or hiring needs.

What does a Machining Estimator do?

A Machining Estimator is responsible for analyzing engineering drawings and specifications to estimate the time, materials, and labor costs required for manufacturing machined parts. They work closely with engineers, production managers, and clients to prepare detailed cost quotations for machining projects. Their estimates help determine project feasibility, set competitive pricing, and support budgeting and planning for manufacturing operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machining Estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machining Estimator, you need expertise in machining processes, blueprint reading, and cost analysis, often supported by a background in manufacturing or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, and quoting tools is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with clients and production teams. These competencies ensure accurate cost estimates, competitive bids, and efficient project planning in a highly technical and cost-sensitive industry.

What are the most common challenges faced by Machining Estimators when preparing cost estimates for custom projects?

Machining Estimators often encounter challenges such as limited information on complex custom parts, fluctuating material costs, and accurately predicting machining times for unique designs. They must collaborate closely with engineers, production teams, and suppliers to gather precise specifications and ensure all variables are considered. Staying up to date with the latest machining technologies and cost-saving methods is also crucial for producing competitive and accurate estimates, which can directly impact a company's ability to win new business.
More about Machining Estimator jobs
What cities are hiring for Machining Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Machining Estimator job openings:
What states have the most Machining Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Machining Estimator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Machining Estimator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Machining Estimator jobs are:
Machining Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machining Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,002 per year, or $39.9 per hour.
Estimator

Estimator

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Hartford, WI

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Title: Estimator
Location: Greater Milwaukee Area
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Shift: Monday–Friday
Compensation: $75,000–$95,000/year (Based on experience)

Benefits: As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.

Overview:
Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to support custom machining and metal fabrication projects. This role is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates by evaluating material costs, labor, machining operations, fabrication processes, outside services, production schedules, and lead times. The Estimator will work closely with Engineering, Sales, Purchasing, and Production to develop competitive quotations while ensuring projects align with manufacturing capabilities, customer requirements, DFARS/FAR compliance, and profitability goals.

Job Duties:
  • Review customer drawings, specifications, and RFQs to prepare accurate project estimates.
  • Estimate material, labor, machining, fabrication, welding, outside processing, and production costs.
  • Evaluate machining methods, fabrication requirements, equipment capabilities, and production schedules.
  • Obtain and review supplier and subcontractor quotes, ensuring pricing and lead times meet customer requirements.
  • Ensure estimates account for outside processing, vendor lead times, and DFARS/FAR compliance when applicable.
  • Coordinate with Engineering, Sales, Purchasing, and Production to develop competitive proposals.
  • Identify value engineering opportunities and recommend cost-saving solutions.
  • Support Project Managers by monitoring project budgets and estimating accuracy throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Maintain estimating records, historical cost data, and project documentation.
  • Participate in post-project reviews to improve estimating processes and accuracy.
Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of estimating experience in a manufacturing, machining, or metal fabrication environment or equivalent hands-on machining/fabrication experience.
  • Strong understanding of CNC machining processes, including 3-axis and 4-axis machining centers.
  • Experience with metal fabrication, welding, and large weldments is highly preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes, material costs, labor costing, outside processing, production scheduling, and supplier lead times.
  • Familiarity with DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement) and FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) requirements is highly preferred.
  • Experience working with manufacturing ERP systems (JobBOSS preferred).
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
  • Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Construction Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
Must Have Skill Set:
  • 3+ years of estimating experience in a machining, metal fabrication, or manufacturing environment OR hands-on machining/fabrication experience with an interest in estimating
  • Experience reading blueprints and engineering drawings
  • Strong understanding of machining processes, fabrication, welding, and manufacturing operations
  • Experience estimating material, labor, outside services, and production schedules
  • Familiarity with DFARS/FAR requirements for government or defense-related manufacturing
  • ERP experience (JobBOSS preferred)
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
**Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation,