Defense Project Estimator — Precision Costing

Blusadefense

Mount Laurel Township (NJ)

Hybrid

USD 65,000 - 90,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

BLUSA Defense Manufacturing in Mount Laurel, NJ seeks a Project Estimator to develop accurate cost estimates for machining, fabrication, and assembly projects. This role supports competitive pricing and strategic growth in a defense-focused environment.

The ideal candidate will review RFQs, drawings, BOMs, and specifications, calculating labor, material, tooling, and overhead costs. Collaboration with engineering, operations, and supply chain is essential to validate feasibility and lead times.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field.
1–3 years estimating, project engineering, manufacturing planning, or related experience required; 5+ years preferred.
Strong working knowledge of machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly operations.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, GD&T, specifications, MIL-STDs, and CAD models.

Responsibilities

Review customer RFQs, technical drawings, BOMs, and specifications to develop detailed cost estimates.
Calculate labor, material, machining time, subcontracting, tooling, and overhead costs for precision manufacturing projects.
Prepare and submit formal quotations and proposals aligned with internal pricing strategies and profitability goals.
Collaborate with engineering, operations, and supply chain teams to validate feasibility, cost, and lead time assumptions.
Identify cost drivers and recommend pricing strategies to improve competitiveness and profitability.
Track awarded vs. quoted work and update costing models based on actual performance.
Maintain accurate records, costing data, and estimating tools to support future projections.
Ensure compliance with defense industry requirements including ITAR, ISO 9001, and AS9100 standards.