CNC Machine Shop Estimator

WORKERS.COM; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Workers.Com in San Jose, CA is seeking an experienced CNC Machine Shop Estimator to join our manufacturing team. The estimator will review customer drawings, RFQs, and CAD models to develop accurate, competitive cost estimates for CNC-milled and CNC-turned components, working with engineers, programmers, purchasing and production to ensure technical soundness and commercial competitiveness.

The role requires 3+ years in CNC machining and estimating, strong analytical ability, and proficiency

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in CNC machining, estimating, or related role.
• Solid understanding of CNC machining processes and shop operations.
• Ability to read mechanical drawings, GD&T, specs, and CAD models.
• Knowledge of CNC mills, lathes, multi-axis machining, tooling, workholding, and inspection.
• Understanding of materials like aluminum, stainless steel, steel, titanium, brass, plastics.
• Ability to calculate machining times, setup times, material usage and costs.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Capability to manage multiple RFQs and deadlines in a fast-paced factory environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and standard business software.

Responsibilities

• Review RFQs, drawings, CAD models, specs and other documentation.
• Determine machining processes, equipment, tooling, fixtures and inspection needs.
• Develop accurate estimates for milling, turning, drilling and related operations.
• Calculate material, labor, machine time, programming, tooling, setup, finishing, inspection and outside costs.
• Estimate cycle times, setup times, programming requirements and production quantities.
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce costs.
• Obtain and evaluate material and outside-processing costs from suppliers.
• Prepare detailed and competitive quotations for customers.
• Review historical data and actual costs to improve estimating accuracy.
• Collaborate with programmers and machinists to validate estimates.
• Work with engineering and production on manufacturability, tolerances and materials.
• Identify risks and cost drivers before quotes are submitted.
• Maintain organized record of estimates, quotes and requirements.
• Follow up on quotes and assist with pricing and lead times.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures and costing methods.

Skills

CNC machining

Estimating & quoting

Reading drawings & GD&T

Excel proficiency

Process improvement

Communication & organization

Tools

CAM software

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

CNC Machine Shop Estimator Location: San Jose, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Department: Estimating / Manufacturing Reports To: Operations Manager / General Manager

About the Position

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented CNC Machine Shop Estimator to join our manufacturing team in Santa Clara, CA. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on knowledge of CNC machining, manufacturing processes, materials, tooling, and shop operations, combined with strong estimating and analytical skills. The Estimator will be responsible for reviewing customer drawings, CAD models, specifications, and RFQs to develop accurate and competitive cost estimates for CNC‑machined components and assemblies. This position will work closely with customers, engineers, programmers, purchasing, and production to ensure estimates are both technically sound and commercially competitive.

Key Responsibilities

• Review customer RFQs, engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications, and other technical documentation.
• Determine the appropriate machining processes, equipment, tooling, fixtures, and inspection requirements for each job.
• Develop accurate estimates for CNC milling, CNC turning, drilling, tapping, and related machining operations.
• Calculate material, labor, machine time, programming, tooling, setup, finishing, inspection, and outside-processing costs.
• Estimate cycle times, setup times, programming requirements, and production quantities.
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce production costs.
• Obtain and evaluate material and outside-processing costs from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Prepare detailed and competitive quotations for customers.
• Review historical job data and actual production costs to improve estimating accuracy.
• Work with CNC programmers and machinists to validate manufacturing assumptions and estimated cycle times.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams on manufacturability, tolerances, materials, and process requirements.
• Identify potential risks, unusual requirements, and cost drivers before quotes are submitted.
• Maintain organized records of estimates, quotes, customer requirements, and supporting documentation.
• Follow up on submitted quotes as needed and assist with customer questions regarding pricing and lead times.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating procedures, costing methods, and shop data.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in CNC machining, manufacturing estimating, quoting, or a closely related role.
• Strong understanding of CNC machining processes and machine shop operations.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, GD&T, specifications, and CAD models.
• Knowledge of CNC mills, lathes, multi-axis machining, tooling, workholding, and inspection processes.
• Understanding of common machining materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, steel, titanium, brass, plastics, and specialty alloys.
• Ability to calculate machining times, setup times, material usage, and overall job costs.
• Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple RFQs and deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and standard business software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating prototype, low-volume, and high-mix CNC machining.
• Experience with precision machining for aerospace, semiconductor, medical, defense, or high-tech industries.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and quoting software.
• Experience working with CAM software or CNC programming.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems.
• Experience with DFM/DFA principles.
• Previous hands‑on experience as a CNC machinist, CNC programmer, manufacturing engineer, or production lead.

What We’re Looking For

The successful candidate is someone who understands that a good estimate is more than simply calculating machine hours. You should be able to look at a drawing or 3D model and visualize how the part will actually be manufactured, recognize potential production challenges, and develop a realistic cost and lead-time estimate. We value candidates who are technically knowledgeable, commercially minded, and comfortable working directly with both customers and shop‑floor personnel.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) and company benefits
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Stable, team‑oriented manufacturing environment
• #INDOS5