General Summary: The Lead Estimator is responsible for leading the estimating function, developing accurate and competitive cost estimates, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to support quoting, pricing strategies, and project planning. Responsible for executing all facets of the quoting activities for the Assembled Solutions team , regularly interfacing with both internal and external customers. Essential Job Functions: + Maintain a positive, approachable manner with our internal and external customers to maximize sales opportunities. + Establish yourself and your team as the first point of contact and become the go-to solutions providers for our sales team and customers. + Lead the estimating process for custom and production-manufactured goods, with a focus on tube bending, hose assemblies and other manufactured and assembled goods. + Set prioritization of work for the Assembled Solutions estimating team, Work with sales when conflict of priority arises to address business needs. + Make recommendations for solutions that solve customer needs and fit into Exotic’s capabilities. + Analyze blueprints, technical drawings, specifications, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates. + Collaborate with engineering, production, and sales teams to ensure estimates align with manufacturing capabilities and customer requirements. + Prepare and present detailed bid packages and proposals to internal stakeholders and customers. + Mentor and guide estimators and support staff to drive continuous improvement. + Perform quote activity analysis and tracking of updates to ensure timely quote turnaround that exceeds customer expectations. + Lead implementation of quoting and order entry processes improvements to improve departmental performance and profitability. + Track and analyze estimate vs. actual costs to improve quoting accuracy. + Stay current with industry trends, materials, and manufacturing technologies, especially in tube bending and related processes. + Responsible for all aspects of processing an RFQ: item creation, bill of material (BOM) entry, estimate entry, engineering change orders (ECO), work instruction creation, new order hand-off. Supplemental Job Functions: + Support for field applications, system designs and customer product developments/enhancements. + Occasionally may make customer visits to support field sales. + Identify key competitors/competitive products and provide feedback to management and field sales. + Assist with sales staff training at all levels for product expertise. + Provide and support a positive work environment. + Participates in corporate on-boarding, orientation, and training programs. + Performs other duties as assigned or requested. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: + US citizen + Understanding of Defense item requirements, (DOD, MIL-spec, DFARS, etc.) + Understanding of quality practices, (PPAP, FAI, etc.) + Knowledge of tube bending preferred. + High-school diploma.  Associate degree in business or related technical field is preferred. + Two to three (2-3) years Fluid Power experience, specifically fluid connector and related products experience is preferred. + High mechanical aptitude with general understanding of tools and machinery.  + Advanced PC skills, Microsoft office suite, especially Excel. + Ability to work independently and multi-task efficiently. + Excellent customer service attributes. + Ability to work flexible work schedule depending on demands in the department. + Organizational skills required to prioritize, plan and coordinate work activities and resources in area of responsibility. + Interpersonal skills necessary to effectively communicate with associates, customers, business partners and management team. + Demonstrated teamwork approach with superiors and peers, utilizing skills in oral communication, active listening, written and oral directions and cooperating with and assisting others when needed. Working Conditions: + Normal business office environment with regular (up to 100% of work time) exposure to noise, dust, office equipment and supplies.  + Physical dexterity is needed to bend, stretch, lift and reach. + Ability to sit or stand for extensive periods throughout the day. + Ability to perform basic office tasks using standard office equipment. + Ability to use a keyboard and computer. Powered by JazzHR