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Purchasing Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PURCHASING AGENT

Whitehall, OH · On-site +1

$52K - $68K/yr

You will prepare written solicitation for purchases estimated to meet and exceed the requirements in Federal Business Opportunities to solicit specific sources, build vendor questions, post ...

Estimator

Niles, IL · On-site

Manage multiple requests ranging from quotes, alteration estimates, purchasing requests and budget quotes. * Consult with Account Services, Sales and Production as to alternatives to producing or ...

Estimator

Niles, IL · On-site

Manage multiple requests ranging from quotes, alteration estimates, purchasing requests and budget quotes. * Consult with Account Services, Sales and Production as to alternatives to producing or ...

Purchasing amp; Procurement * Purchase paper, ink, substrates, finishing supplies, and outsourced services based on approved estimates * Source and evaluate vendors to ensure competitive pricing ...

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Lead Residential Estimator/Purchasing Location: Deer Park, IL Position Type: Full-Time About the Role Skycrest Homes is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Residential Estimator/Purchaser to ...

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Estimator

Tulsa, OK · On-site

The estimator will also prepare budgets from cost estimates and participate in the preparation of purchase orders and subcontracts. In addition: * Quantity take-offs * Contract risk analysis

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Lead Residential Estimator/Purchasing Location: Deer Park, IL Position Type: Full-Time About the Role Skycrest Homes is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Residential Estimator/Purchaser to ...

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NC Services is a service company that provides architectural, purchasing, and estimating services for a group of single and multifamily building companies; Ambassador Homes, Homewood Homes, and ...

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Purchasing Estimator information

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$40.5K

$84.2K

$127.5K

How much do purchasing estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing estimator in the United States is $84,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Purchasing Estimators?

Purchasing Estimators are professionals who analyze costs and prepare estimates for goods, materials, or services that an organization intends to purchase. They evaluate supplier quotes, assess market trends, and collaborate with vendors to ensure that purchases are made at the best possible price without sacrificing quality. Their work helps companies manage budgets, control spending, and plan for future procurement needs. By providing accurate cost estimates, Purchasing Estimators play a key role in supporting business operations and financial decision-making.

How much do entry level estimators make?

Entry-level purchasing estimators typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and company size. Starting salaries may increase with relevant skills, certifications, and experience in procurement or cost analysis.

What is the difference between Purchasing Estimator vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectPurchasing EstimatorProcurement Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) are commonUsually requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field; certifications like CPSM are advantageous
Work EnvironmentConstruction, manufacturing, or industrial settings focusing on cost estimationCorporate procurement departments across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction firms, contractors, and manufacturing companiesUsed by corporations, government agencies, and large organizations

While both roles involve sourcing and cost analysis, a Purchasing Estimator primarily focuses on estimating costs for projects, whereas a Procurement Specialist manages the overall procurement process. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How much do estimators earn?

Purchasing estimators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior estimators or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000. Compensation often includes benefits and opportunities for bonuses based on project size and performance.

How much do estimators make?

Purchasing estimators typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. In some regions, salaries can range higher with additional certifications or specialized skills in procurement and cost analysis.

How does a Purchasing Estimator typically collaborate with other departments during the bidding process?

A Purchasing Estimator works closely with project managers, engineers, and suppliers to gather accurate cost data and ensure estimates align with project requirements. Regular meetings and open communication are essential to clarify specifications, discuss material options, and address any potential risks or changes. This collaborative approach helps create comprehensive bids that are both competitive and achievable, while also building strong interdepartmental relationships.

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

To thrive as a Purchasing Estimator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in procurement or supply chain management, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with cost estimation software, ERP systems, and advanced Excel functions is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills help build supplier relationships and manage multiple projects efficiently. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately forecasting costs, securing favorable terms, and supporting the financial health of the organization.

What's the average salary of an estimator?

The average salary of a purchasing estimator typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Estimators with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in construction, manufacturing, or engineering sectors.
More about Purchasing Estimator jobs
Infographic showing various Purchasing Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,202 per year, or $40.5 per hour.
Fabrication Estimator I/II

Fabrication Estimator I/II

CHL Systems, Inc.

Souderton, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Join Our Estimating Team
CHL Systems is hiring a Fabrication Estimator I/II to support estimating for custom fabrication and engineered system projects. This is an onsite role for someone who can support accurate cost estimates, schedules, labor projections, material takeoffs, and proposal support for customer projects.
This position may be filled at either the Estimator I or Estimator II level based on the selected candidate’s experience, technical background, fabrication knowledge, and overall alignment with the role.
This role is best suited for someone with experience in steel fabrication, manufacturing, engineering support, cost analysis, estimating, project coordination, or a related technical environment. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with technical information, historical cost data, and ERP system information to support accurate estimating decisions.
Why Join CHL Systems?
  • Competitive compensation with growth opportunities
  • Weekly pay
  • Medical, dental, vision, PTO, paid holidays, and 401(k) with company match
  • Stable, family-owned manufacturing company with 65+ years in business
  • Opportunity to support custom automation, fabrication, and engineered system projects
  • Collaborative environment with exposure to Sales, Applications Engineering, Purchasing, Estimating, Manufacturing, and Operations
  • Opportunity to grow estimating skills in a custom manufacturing environment
What You’ll Do
  • Review project requirements, drawings, specifications, and technical documents to understand project scope
  • Assist with or independently prepare cost estimates depending on level and experience
  • Develop or support material takeoffs, Bills of Material, and manufacturing labor estimates
  • Estimate cost components such as material, labor, overhead, schedule impact, and related manufacturing considerations
  • Analyze historical cost data, ERP system information, and cost trends to support accurate estimating decisions
  • Coordinate with Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, Operations, and Sales to gather input needed for estimates
  • Review vendor and subcontractor pricing and support sourcing-related decisions as needed
  • Document assumptions, scope gaps, risks, and estimate details, updating estimates as drawings, scope, or project information changes
  • Support proposal development and internal communication of estimate details
  • Participate in project handoff discussions to help align estimating assumptions with execution teams
  • Follow company safety, quality, and compliance procedures
What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications
  • Experience in estimating, steel fabrication, manufacturing, engineering support, cost analysis, project coordination, or a similar technical environment
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, prints, project plans, specifications, and related documents
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to understand manufacturing processes
  • Basic understanding of cost structures, including material and labor
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications
  • Ability to work with data, analyze cost information, and identify trends
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong time management, organization, and prioritization skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks or projects
  • Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Operations
  • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, project-driven environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • 1–3+ years of related experience preferred; 3+ years strongly preferred for Level II consideration
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered
  • Experience developing cost estimates, proposals, material takeoffs, BOMs, or technical project support documentation
  • Experience in custom equipment, fabrication, machining, assembly, automation, or engineered systems environments
  • Experience using ERP/MRP systems, cost tracking tools, estimating software, or historical cost data to support estimates
  • Experience supporting project handoffs, production planning, cost comparisons, make-versus-buy analysis, or manufacturing operations
This Could Be a Great Fit If You
  • Enjoy working with numbers, drawings, costs, and technical details
  • Have experience in fabrication, manufacturing, estimating, engineering support, or project coordination
  • Are comfortable reviewing drawings and asking thoughtful questions to clarify scope
  • Like analyzing material, labor, historical data, and system information to support accurate estimates
  • Are highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to balance multiple projects
  • Communicate well with both technical and non-technical team members
  • Want to grow your estimating skills in a custom manufacturing environment
  • Take ownership of your work and care about accuracy, consistency, and follow-through
Work Environment amp; Physical Requirements
  • This is an onsite role based in a manufacturing and engineering environment
  • Work is primarily office-based and involves extended periods of sitting and computer-based work
  • Regular interaction with Sales, Applications, Engineering, Purchasing, Estimating, Manufacturing, and Operations teams
  • Periodic exposure to the shop floor and production areas to review processes, equipment, materials, or manufacturing methods
  • Occasional exposure to customer sites for equipment evaluation or measurements may be required
  • Occasional standing, walking, bending, reaching, or light lifting may be required
  • Ability to walk the shop floor, read technical documents and drawings, and navigate manufacturing environments as needed
  • PPE must be worn in designated production areas, and safety procedures must be followed
  • Standard full-time schedule, typically Monday through Friday
  • Additional hours may be required during peak quoting cycles or project deadlines
  • Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with multiple concurrent projects
About CHL Systems
For more than 65 years, CHL Systems has been a trusted leader in designing and manufacturing custom automation and material handling solutions. Serving the food, pharmaceutical, and general manufacturing industries, we combine innovation, craftsmanship, and a family-oriented culture to deliver high-quality systems that keep our customers’ operations moving.
Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V)
CHL Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.