Estimating Manager

DUF6-MCS LLC; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

DUF6-MCS LLC in Lexington, KY, seeks an Estimating Manager to lead cost proposals for U.S. government contracts. This role requires deep expertise in FAR, CAS, and DOE requirements and focuses on audit-ready, defensible cost estimates.

The ideal candidate brings an analytical mindset, experience with capture and proposal teams, and the ability to translate technical needs into accurate cost models. You will ensure meticulous documentation and collaborate across technical and business teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Engineering, Accounting, or related field is required.
• 7-10+ years of federal cost estimating or pricing experience for government contracts.
• Deep knowledge of FAR, DFARS, CAS, and government cost principles.
• Experience preparing BOEs and cost volumes for federal proposals.
• Proficiency with estimating tools such as RS Means, Excel modeling, and cost databases.
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
• Experience supporting DCAA/DCMA audits and negotiations.

Skills

Federal cost estimating

FAR/CAS knowledge

BOEs & cost volumes

Analytical thinking

Documentation & communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Engineering, Accounting, or related field

Tools

RS Means

Excel modeling

Cost databases

Job description

The Estimating Manager is a key contributor in developing fully compliant, defensible, and competitive cost estimates for U.S. Government contracts. This role requires deep expertise in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and DOE-specific requirements. The Estimating Manager leads the development of cost proposals, supports pricing strategy, and ensures all estimating activities meet audit-ready standards for federal procurements.

The ideal candidate brings a strong analytical mindset, experience working with multidisciplinary capture and proposal teams, and the ability to translate complex technical requirements into accurate cost models. The successful Estimating Manager is meticulous in documentation and compliance, comfortable navigating ambiguity in early capture phases, skilled at balancing competitiveness with cost realism, a strong communicator who can defend estimates with confidence and a collaborative partner across technical and business teams.

Job Requirements

• [Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Engineering, Accounting, or related field.]
• 7-10+ years of experience in federal cost estimating or pricing for government contracts.
• Deep knowledge of FAR, DFARS, CAS, and government cost principles.
• Demonstrated experience preparing BOEs and cost volumes for federal proposals.
• Proficiency with estimating tools (e.g., RS Means, Excel modeling, cost databases).
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
• Experience supporting DCAA/DCMA audits and negotiations.

We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.