Estimator - Manufacturing

About Waltonen Group Waltonen Engineering and Independence Tooling Solutions operate together as part of the Waltonen Group family of companies. Waltonen Engineering provides engineering, design, processing, simulation, and technical services, while Independence Tooling Solutions provides CNC machining, fabrication, tooling, fixture building, welding, and mechanical assembly. Together, our teams support automotive, aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing programs from concept and engineering through build and completion.

About the Role Independence Tooling Solutions is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Estimator to drive quotation strategy, cost analysis, and proposal development for complex tooling, fixture, machining, defense, aerospace, and custom manufacturing projects. This role serves as a key technical leader responsible for developing accurate, competitive, and profitable quotations while helping shape bid strategy and project selection. Job Responsibilities

• Perform accurate estimating for project costs and timelines to ensure financial goals are met.
• Meet and exceed company financial goals.
• Participate in customer meetings as required.
• Collaborate with managers to prepare and review quotes.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all quotes and quote check-off lists.
• Review and approve contracts.
• Authorize shop order numbers for new projects.
• Coordinate with project managers to ensure smooth project execution.
• Assign tasks to managers for revisions and authorize change revision numbers.
• Coordinate support documents with administration for revisions.
• Gather and organize all affected drawings, sketches, and notes for revisions.
• Prepare customer forms and invoicing packages for administration.
• Ensure affected drawings are ready for shipping.
• Demonstrate the ability to understand and work with complex mechanisms.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing techniques and procedures, including fixture build and CNC machining.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Skilled in using Microsoft Office programs.
• Ability to work from blueprints, written documentation, or electronic media.
• Strong analytical skills to understand customer requirements and select alternate solutions.
• Willingness to work overtime as needed and adapt to fluctuating workloads.
• Knowledge of welding and mechanics.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in machine and tool procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with BIW (Body-in-White) tooling and fixture quoting.
• Experience with Paperless Parts is a plus.
• Experience in industries such as defense, aerospace, and government.

All employees are required to work within the confines and responsibilities of the quality system.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Vacation and Holiday pay
• Employer matching 401K
• Hybrid work schedule after 90 days for eligible positions
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Programs (FSAs)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability insurance
• Employee Referral Program
• Additional Voluntary Benefit Programs
• Off-site company events & Employee Luncheons

Who are we? Independence Tooling is a leader in high-precision custom tooling, jigs, and assembly equipment for the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, defense, and energy industries. Our in-house capabilities meet the most stringent industry requirements and deliver high-quality cost-effective solutions. Encouraged by the team approach we foster, our craftsmen proudly commit themselves to meeting client needs on time and within budget.

Waltonen Engineering, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will consider qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, marital status, weight, height, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or handicap.