Cost Estimating Manager

Proven Recruiting; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Proven Recruiting, Inc. is seeking a Lead Cost Estimating for Space and Defense in San Diego to lead a high-impact cost estimating team while remaining hands-on in the work. You will influence proposal strategy, government audits, and executive decisions within a leading aerospace and defense organization.

The role requires 8+ years in cost estimating with strong FAR knowledge and leadership experience. Occasional travel to Denver may be required and you will help shape cost estimating tools and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Economics or a related field and 8+ years of progressive experience in cost estimating, cost engineering, project finance, or a related field, preferably within the defense industry.
• Strong knowledge of FAR, government contracting regulations, cost accounting principles, and proposal/project management practices.
• 3+ years of leadership experience with a track record of developing and managing teams.
• Experience with Deltek ProPricer and familiarity with SAP preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in cost estimating activities for proposals, contracts, and contract modifications while managing a team of approximately five direct reports.
• Serve as the primary representative during government audits and contract negotiations, ensuring FAR compliance and supporting pricing justifications.
• Develop and present cost estimates, risk assessments, and pricing strategies to senior leadership in support of business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including the implementation of best-in-class cost estimating tools and processes across space and energy programs.

Skills

Leadership experience

Cost estimating

FAR knowledge

Government contracting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Finance/Economics or related field

Tools

Deltek ProPricer

SAP familiarity

Job description

Lead Cost Estimating For Space and Defense

Looking to lead a high-impact cost estimating team while remaining hands-on in the work? This is an opportunity to join a leading aerospace and defense organization supporting critical space and energy programs, with visibility into proposal strategy, government audits, and executive decision-making.

Who you are:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Economics or a related field and 8+ years of progressive experience in cost estimating, cost engineering, project finance, or a related field, preferably within the defense industry.
• Strong knowledge of FAR, government contracting regulations, cost accounting principles, and proposal/project management practices.
• 3+ years of leadership experience with a track record of developing and managing teams.
• Experience with Deltek ProPricer and familiarity with SAP preferred.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and participate in cost estimating activities for proposals, contracts, and contract modifications while managing a team of approximately five direct reports.
• Serve as the primary representative during government audits and contract negotiations, ensuring FAR compliance and supporting pricing justifications.
• Develop and present cost estimates, risk assessments, and pricing strategies to senior leadership in support of business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including the implementation of best-in-class cost estimating tools and processes across space and energy programs.

Why work here:

• High visibility leadership role supporting strategic space and energy programs.
• Opportunity to shape cost estimating processes and tools across the organization.
• Monthly travel exposure to key space operations leadership in Denver.
• Long-term growth potential, including work on classified and highly complex programs.

What does this position pay?

Compensation is determined by several factors which may include skillset, experience level, and education.

The expected salary range for this role is $150,000 - $200,000 per year. Please note this range is an estimate and actual pay may vary based on qualifications and experience.

We actively support and promote people of various backgrounds, from race, religion, gender to geographical area, university, lifestyle, and personality type.