Estimating Engineer

Job Specification: Estimating Engineer

Job Title:

Estimating Engineer

Department:

Commercial

Reports To:

Chief Commercial Officer / Commercial Manager

Location:

Bournemouth

Salary:

£47,000

Purpose

The Estimating Engineer will assume and discharge the responsibility for breaking down customer enquiries into Labour Hours, Material Values, and Tooling Costs for the purpose of preparing accurate and competitive quotations to customers.

Key Accountabilities

Develop and prepare accurate cost estimates for aerospace components, assemblies, and full systems based on engineering drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.

Estimate labour hours and material costs, including tooling required to meet customer manufacturing requirements.

Analyse tender documentation to identify key commercial and technical factors.

Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and production teams to gather input on timing, material pricing, and processes.

Identify critical manufacturing processes and flag capability gaps or concerns.

• Work through Bills of Materials (BOMs) and part lists to generate quotes for assemblies.
  
  
• Support creation of bid and proposal documentation in line with customer schedules and expectations.
  
  
• Work closely with Key Account Managers to develop pricing strategies, engaging directly with customers when required.
  
  
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and assess risks associated with labour, materials, or subcontracting.
  
  
• Maintain and update estimating tools, cost databases, and historical quote data.
  
  
• Participate in customer meetings as needed, explaining and justifying scope and pricing.
  
  
• Contribute to post-bid reviews and support continuous improvement in estimating processes.
  
  Experience and Capabilities
  
  
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in estimating or costing within aerospace, defence, automotive, or complex manufacturing industries.
  
  
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel; experience using CAD software.
  
  
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
  
  
• Understanding of manufacturing methods including machining, sheet metal, composite, and aircraft components.
  
  
• Experience with surface treatments and metal finishing processes (e.g., Alocrom, Anodise, heat treatment, painting).
  
  
• Familiarity with planning and procurement documentation (POs, PODs, GRNs, MRP systems such as SAP or Syspro).
  
  
• Preferred experience with UK MOD or international aerospace procurement standards.
  
  
• Sound knowledge of aerospace-relevant materials and processes.
  
  Qualifications
  
  HNC/HND or Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical/commercial discipline (preferred).
  
  Key Success Measures
  
  
• Estimate Accuracy – % Deviation from Actual Cost
  
  
• Bid Submission Timeliness – % of On-Time Submissions
  
  
• Bid Win Rate – % of Successful Bids
  
  
• Quote Turnaround Time – Average Days per Quote
  
  
• Volume of Estimates Completed – Number per defined period
  
  Key Attributes and Behaviours
  
  
• Detail-Oriented – Delivers high-accuracy estimates with attention to technical detail.
  
  
• Analytical Thinker – Able to evaluate complex data and provide clear cost breakdowns.
  
  
• Conscientious – Methodical, reliable, and focused on quality and completeness.
  
  
• Strong Communicator – Collaborates effectively with engineers, suppliers, and commercial stakeholders.
  
  
• Adaptable – Adjusts to new methods, materials, or shifting project scopes.
  
  
• Ethical & Trustworthy – Maintains confidentiality and manages sensitive financial data with integrity.
  
  
• Self-Motivated – Works independently and proactively.
  
  
• Team-Oriented – Builds strong working relationships across departments