Lead Cost Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

This role blends responsibilities of a Lead Cost Estimator with those of a Customer Business Team (CBT) Lead. It involves overseeing cost estimation activities while also managing internal partnerships to ensure customer satisfaction and accurate, timely quoting. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, analytical, and strategic capabilities, along with deep cost estimating expertise.

Key Responsibilities:

Cost Estimating:

• Review part data, engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, customer documents, and quote requirements.

• Evaluate blank sizes and die tooling needs with internal experts and external tool shops.

• Maintain tracking systems for ongoing and upcoming projects.

• Attend pre-source meetings and provide technical input.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure quotes are accurate and aligned with customer expectations.

• Utilize internal quoting systems to generate detailed cost estimates.

• Coordinate with internal departments and external suppliers to gather pricing inputs.

• Recommend improvements to cost estimating procedures to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

• Identify and define processes required to generate customer quotes.

Customer Business Team (CBT) Leadership:

• Act as the main liaison between the Cost Estimating and CBT teams.

• Build and maintain relationships with key internal stakeholders and external clients.

• Anticipate and resolve issues proactively to ensure alignment with customer needs.

• Understand customer expectations and tailor cost solutions accordingly.

• Analyze data to drive decisions and recommend process improvements.

• Ensure manufacturing processes are correctly captured in estimates, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and operational accuracy.

• Communicate between departments to streamline workflows and meet customer deadlines.

• Develop reports and presentations for internal and customer-facing purposes.

• Mentor, coach, and support team development to align with organizational goals.

• Foster a collaborative, customer-oriented team culture.

Leadership Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate and model company values and ethics.

• Provide direction and supervision to Cost Estimating team members.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent relevant experience.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive, metal fabrication, or assembly environments.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Solid understanding of engineering principles and design tools.

• Strong cost analysis and data interpretation skills.

• Familiarity with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

• Deep knowledge of the automation industry.

• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities.

• Proven leadership and team guidance capabilities.

• Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (advanced formulas, analysis, and troubleshooting).

• Working knowledge of QAD and QMS systems at an intermediate level.

• Analytical mindset with a keen attention to detail.

• Ability to translate financial and performance data into actionable insights.

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Adaptability to fast-paced work environments.

• Team player with a collaborative spirit.

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Duties may require prolonged periods at a desk, use of computers, and movement throughout an office or plant environment.

• Occasional travel to manufacturing sites may be required.

• Potential exposure to mechanical systems, vibration, and industrial materials in plant settings.

Company Description

Branex Group is a Minority-owned Technical Staffing firm headquartered in Auburn Hills, MI. We are a Certified Women’s Owned Business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). We specialize in Engineering, Information Technology, Robotics, Human Resources, and Finance opportunities across the United States.

Branex Group is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We ensure all applicants and employees are considered without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, genetics, or any other protected characteristic by State and Federal laws.

Branex Group offers the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- 401(k)

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Company Description

Branex Group is a Minority-owned Technical Staffing firm headquartered in Auburn Hills, MI. We are a Certified Women’s Owned Business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). We specialize in Engineering, Information Technology, Robotics, Human Resources, and Finance opportunities across the United States.\r\n\r\nBranex Group is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We ensure all applicants and employees are considered without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, genetics, or any other protected characteristic by State and Federal laws.\r\n\r\n\r\nBranex Group offers the following benefits:\r\n- Medical Insurance\r\n- Dental Insurance\r\n- Vision insurance\r\n- Paid time off\r\n- 401(k)\r\n\r\n This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.