Cost Estimating Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Troy Design and Manufacturing (TDM) is an industry-leading manufacturing and prototyping provider expanding rapidly across Automotive, Defense, and Aerospace sectors. We are seeking an experienced, forward-thinking Cost Estimating Manager to lead our cost estimating team, modernize our quoting capabilities, and drive commercial precision across multi-industry product lines.

In this strategic leadership role, you will oversee end-to-end cost modeling, RFQ management, quote strategy, and estimate accuracy. You will serve as the commercial bridge between Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Finance - ensuring fast, highly accurate, and competitive quotes. Additionally, you will lead the integration of next-generation AI-assisted quoting tools and standardized estimation methodologies to support TDM’s growth into high-precision defense and aerospace markets.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Estimating Leadership & Operations Management

• Direct daily operations of the Cost Estimating team, including workload allocation, quote prioritization, and tracking of customer RFQ deliverables.

• Review and approve all major cost estimates, prototype models, engineering change requests (ECNs), and commercial proposals prior to executive submission.

• Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs), templates, and cost-modeling frameworks tailored to automotive, defense (DFARS considerations), and aerospace requirements.

• Ensure rapid quote turnarounds while maintaining high first-pass accuracy and risk-adjusted margins.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Strategy

• Partner closely with Sales, Engineering, Finance, and Operations to review statement of work (SOW) inputs, manufacturing feasibility, material costs, and lead times.

• Participate in quote reviews and change-control meetings to align commercial strategies with operational capacity and profitability targets.

• Act as a key commercial advisor to senior management, presenting cost models, risk assessments, and quote performance trends.

Technology Integration & Process Modernization

• Champion the adoption and refinement of modern cost estimating technology, including AI-assisted quoting platforms, automated feature extraction, and advanced ERP integration.

• Continuously refine costing algorithms and historical cost databases to improve estimating speed, reduce manual inputs, and eliminate anomalies.

• Implement continuous improvement loops by linking actual post-production costs with historical estimates to continuously refine accuracy.

Performance Metrics & Reporting

• Develop, maintain, and present executive dashboards tracking core metrics: Estimate Accuracy %, Quote Cycle Time, Win Rate Correlation, and Estimate-to-Actual Cost Variance.

• Lead team development, coaching, and cross-training efforts to foster a high-performing, technical estimating culture.

• Support company quality standards, including ISO 14001, Quality Operating System (QOS), and continuous improvement initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, Industrial Technology, or equivalent hands-on industry experience.

• 5+ years of cost estimating experience in advanced manufacturing, prototype tooling, metal fabrication, or complex assemblies.

• 2+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a manufacturing or technical environment.

• Advanced proficiency in cost modeling, Excel, software tools (ERP/MRP systems), and standard quoting workflows.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across Engineering, Sales, Finance, and Executive Leadership.

Preferred:

• Experience across multi-industry manufacturing environments (Automotive, Defense/DFARS, Aerospace/AS9100).

• Hands-on experience implementing or utilizing AI-enabled/automated quoting software or advanced parametric costing tools.

• Strong familiarity with CAD/BOM interpretation, prototype tooling, stamping, fabrication, and assembly processes.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Competitive Salary + Performance Bonus

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• 401(k) with Company Match

• Career growth and leadership exposure in high-growth sectors (Automotive, Defense, Aerospace)

• Paid Time Off and Recognized Holidays