Estimator – Plainwell Area

The Pivot Group Careers; Plainwell (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is actively seeking experienced Estimators in the Plainwell, MI area. This role focuses on cost estimation for manufacturing projects, coordinating with engineering and production to ensure accurate bids, and maintaining detailed cost history for ongoing and future opportunities.

As part of our network, you will access multiple manufacturer opportunities within Allegan County and surrounding regions, with a focus on long-term fit, cost accuracy, and career growth.

Qualifications

• Experience estimating costs in manufacturing or machine shop settings.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specs.
• Strong math skills and proficiency with spreadsheets and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Request quotes from suppliers for parts and materials.
• Collaborate with engineering and production on methods.
• Prepare and submit bid packages by deadlines.
• Track awarded jobs and compare costs to estimates.
• Update pricing as material costs or requirements change.
• Maintain estimating records and cost history.
• Review drawings to prepare cost estimates.
• Calculate material, labor, and machine time for each job.

Skills

Attention to detail

Bid deadline compliance

Cost estimation

Engineering drawings

Math skills

ERP software

Machining processes

Education

Engineering or business degree

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Job Description:

Estimator | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $55,000 – $87,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for excelling as a estimator? The Pivot Group Network, a Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We collaborate with leading companies in the Plainwell area seeking experienced Estimators.

We are building our network of talent in this field across Michigan’s manufacturing regions. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

This posting covers Estimator opportunities with manufacturers based in and around Plainwell in Allegan County, within about 30 minutes of the city, including Hope.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with multiple companies in the Plainwell area seeking experienced Estimators. These organizations value long-term fit and look for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Usual Responsibilities

• Request quotes from suppliers for purchased parts and materials.
• Work with engineering and production to confirm manufacturing methods.
• Prepare and submit bid packages to customers by the deadline.
• Track awarded jobs and compare actual costs to the estimate.
• Update pricing when material costs or customer requirements change.
• Maintain estimating records and cost history in the company system.
• Review customer drawings and specifications to prepare cost estimates.
• Calculate material, labor, and machine time for each job.

Recommended Qualifications

• Attention to detail and ability to meet bid deadlines.
• Experience estimating costs in a manufacturing or machine shop setting.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong math skills and comfort with spreadsheets and ERP software.
• Knowledge of machining, fabrication, or assembly processes.

Bonus Qualifications

• Familiarity with cost breakdown structures and margin analysis.
• Background in a specific sector such as metalworking, plastics, or electronics.
• Associate or bachelor degree in engineering, business, or a related field.
• Experience with CAD software to review part geometry.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Cost Analyst, Production Planner, Bid Coordinator, Sales Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Purchasing Agent, Cost Estimator, Manufacturing Estimator, Estimating Engineer, Quote Specialist

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future visa sponsorship. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who’ve been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic – they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search – market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we’ll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.

Required Skills:

NetSuite Resume Data Offers Support Lean Manufacturing Estimates Six Sigma Mandarin Analysis ERP Salary Hiring Partnerships Recruiting Spanish Compensation SAP Manufacturing Specifications Construction Oracle Materials Vendors Preparation Engineering Project Management Sales Communication Management

Salary Package:

$ 55,000.00 – 87,000.00 (US Dollar)