Estimator – USA

John King Chains Limited; Alabama; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Alabama is seeking an Estimator responsible for developing accurate cost estimates for custom industrial chain assemblies. This role collaborates with engineering and sales teams to ensure pricing aligns with customer requirements and profit targets. The ideal candidate should have 3-5 years of estimating experience and proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel and ERP systems. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of estimating experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or mechanical engineering environment.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex technical drawings and specifications.
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate cost estimates for industrial chain assemblies.
• Collaborate with teams to confirm assumptions and lead times.
• Identify cost-reduction strategies during the estimating process.

Skills

Estimating experience

Analytical and mathematical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP/MRP systems

Estimating or cost-modeling software

Job description

Contract of employment

Full-time, Monday to Friday

Stationary work

Reporting to:
Commercial Manager / Sales Director

Date Updated:
January 2026

Position Summary

The Estimator is responsible for developing accurate and competitive cost estimates and price quotations for custom industrial chain assemblies and related mechanical components. This role supports profitable growth by analyzing engineering documentation, determining cost drivers, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring pricing aligns with margin targets, customer requirements, and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, bills of materials, and customer requirements to determine material, labor, overhead, and production costs.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates and formal customer quotations in accordance with company pricing strategies and margin objectives.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, and Supply Chain teams to confirm assumptions, routings, and lead times.
• Identify value-engineering opportunities, alternative materials, and cost-reduction strategies during the estimating process.
• Maintain and update estimating tools, databases, supplier pricing, and historical cost data.
• Support the Sales team with bid preparation, proposal development, and commercial negotiations.
• Analyze awarded and lost quotes to improve estimating accuracy and future pricing decisions.
• Ensure estimates comply with internal quality systems, safety requirements, and applicable standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned consistent with business needs.

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Minimum of 3–5 years of estimating experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or mechanical engineering environment.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex technical drawings and specifications.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and estimating or cost-modeling software.

Professional Skills:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience estimating custom mechanical assemblies, industrial chains, conveyors, or heavy industrial equipment.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Familiarity with value engineering, lean manufacturing, or continuous improvement methodologies.

Core Competencies

• Strong commercial awareness and customer focus.
• Highly organized, methodical, and results-oriented.
• Self-motivated with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• High integrity and accountability.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office-based role within a manufacturing environment.
• Periodic exposure to production areas and industrial equipment.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and work at a computer for prolonged durations.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Alabama Employment Notice

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal and Alabama employment laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
Employment with the Company is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.
This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment and may be modified at the Company’s discretion to meet operational needs.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence in accordance with GDPR and UK employment law.