Costing Engineer

Thunderbird Molding; Elkhart (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with matching program

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Short Term Disability

Long Term Disability

Life Insurance

Paid Time Off

9 Paid Holidays

Job summary

Thunderbird Molding is seeking a Cost Estimator to lead budgeting estimates and quotations for equipment and tooling investments to support engineering projects. You will collaborate across departments to gather data and develop detailed cost projections for viable, competitive proposals.

The role requires strong analytical skills, proficiency with MS Office, and the ability to communicate effectively with customers and subcontractors. Onsite work in Elkhart, IN is expected.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of costing methods and volume calculations.
• Ability to write reports and correspondence.
• Ability to present information and answer questions from customers and suppliers.
• Ability to apply algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to cost estimates.
• Proficiency with word processing and spreadsheets.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate feasibility of customer requests for quotation.
• Prepare quotations for piece parts, assemblies, and tooling.
• Interface with customers and subcontractors on tooling quotes.
• Control customer and plastics drawings and related documents.
• Select and evaluate subcontractors.
• Schedule and purchase material for prototype runs.
• Participate on multi-disciplinary teams for product quality planning.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Costing methods

Volume calculations

Print reading

3D visualization

Report writing

Presentation

Algebra/geometry/trigonometry

MS Office

Tools

Microsoft Word

Spreadsheets

MS Office Suite

Job description

Cost Estimator Position Overview

The Cost Estimator leads in the planning and development of budgetary estimates and quotations for equipment and tooling investment (hard cost) in support of both New Model and Business Plan engineering projects. The role involves utilizing analytical and technical skills to provide accurate cost projections, ensuring that projects are financially viable and competitive. Cost Estimators collaborate with various departments, contractors, and suppliers to gather relevant information and create detailed cost estimates.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate the feasibility of customer requests for quotation.
• Prepare quotations for piece parts, assemblies, and tooling.
• Interface with customers and subcontractors on matters related to tooling and piece part quotes.
• Control customer and plastics drawings and related documents.
• Select and evaluate subcontractors.
• Schedule and purchase material required for prototype runs.
• Participate on multi‑disciplinary teams for product quality planning.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Experience

• Knowledge of costing methods, volume calculations, print reading, and 3‑D visualization.
• Ability to write reports and correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from customers, subcontractors, and employees.
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to practical cost estimating situations.
• Ability to use computer software such as word processing and spreadsheets.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• This position requires you to be onsite daily.
• This position is primarily in an office environment.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk working on a computer.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to establish trust, credibility, and rapport at all levels of the organization; seen as humble, direct, and authentic while possessing professional presence.

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching program.
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short Term Disability
• Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 9 Paid Holidays

Thunderbird is a drug and smoke free work environment and promotes safe work conditions.