Estimator (Part Time - Project Based)

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 200+ CNC machines and a team of 500+ professionals. Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer. At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

The Estimator prepares accurate, competitive cost estimates and quotations for aerospace machined components and assemblies. Working from customer drawings, specifications, and RFQ packages, the Estimator develops manufacturing routings, cycle and setup times, material and outside processing costs, and tooling needs, partnering closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Contracts, and Customer Accounts to deliver quotes that win business and can be built profitably.

What you’ll be doing as an Estimator:

• Working a Part time position at our Sumner, WA location.
• Prepare cost estimates and quotations for aerospace and defense RFQs, including new parts, repeat orders, and engineering changes.
• Review customer drawings, models, specifications, and RFQ packages to define scope, material, special processes, and quality requirements.
• Develop manufacturing routings and estimate machine cycle times, setup times, labor content, and inspection requirements.
• Obtain and evaluate quotes for raw material, hardware, and outside processing (anodize, passivation, heat treat, plating, NDT, and similar processes) with Supply Chain.
• Estimate tooling, fixturing, programming, and first article inspection (AS9102) costs and lead times.
• Coordinate with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, and Quality to confirm manufacturing approach, machine capability, and capacity assumptions.
• Build and maintain multi-level BOMs and routings in the ERP/MRP system for quoted and awarded work.
• Support contract reviews, quote clarifications, and customer questions with Contracts and Customer Accounts Managers.
• Identify manufacturing risks, cost drivers, and opportunities to improve competitiveness and margin.
• Compare actual job costs to estimates and use results to refine estimating standards and databases.
• Maintain organized quote files, estimating records, and quote status tracking.
• Take on tasks outside normal duties when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Several years of estimating, manufacturing engineering, or CNC machining experience in aerospace or precision manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of CNC milling and turning processes, setups, cycle times, and machine capabilities.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T.
• Working knowledge of aerospace materials and common special processes.
• Experience developing routings, labor estimates, or cost models.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with close attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience quoting for aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
• Experience estimating multi-axis, Swiss, grinding, honing, or assembly operations.
• Experience with CAD/CAM software for reviewing models and estimating cycle times.
• Working knowledge of AS9100 and customer flow-down requirements.
• Lean manufacturing or cost/value engineering experience.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The Estimator Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $30 - $35 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.