Buyer/Estimator for Cable Harness Manufacturing Company in Morgan Hill, CA at OSI Engineering

We are seeking a skilled Estimator to join our team, specializing in wire harness assemblies. The Estimator will be responsible for evaluating project specifications and requirements to prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates and project quotes. This role involves assessing material, labor, tooling, and overhead costs to develop competitive quotes that align with the company's financial goals. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with various departments to ensure feasibility and optimize cost-efficiency while maintaining high-quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Cost Estimation: Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documents to prepare detailed cost estimates for wire harness assemblies, including material costs, labor, tooling, and overhead.
• Material Analysis: Identify and source appropriate materials for wire harness projects, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and industry standards. Work closely with the procurement team to obtain accurate pricing for materials.
• Labor and Time Calculation: Assess the labor requirements for each project, including assembly, testing, and quality assurance, to determine accurate labor costs and production timelines.
• Customer RFQs: Review and interpret customer Requests for Quotation (RFQs) to develop accurate and competitive quotes that meet the customer's needs while ensuring profitability for the company.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the engineering and production teams to ensure that estimates reflect feasible production methods and that potential challenges are identified and addressed during the quoting process.
• Cost Optimization: Analyze the cost-effectiveness of different manufacturing processes and suggest alternatives to reduce costs without compromising quality.
• Pricing Strategy: Develop pricing strategies that align with the company’s financial goals and market positioning. Ensure that all quotes are competitive while maintaining the desired profit margins.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all estimates, including assumptions, material lists, labor calculations, and final quotes, for future reference and auditing.
• Customer Interaction: Communicate with customers to clarify project requirements, answer questions about estimates, and negotiate terms when necessary.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the estimating process. Provide feedback to management on potential areas for process improvement.

Requirements

• Prior experience as an estimator or similar role.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in cost estimating within the wire harness manufacturing industry or a similar manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of wire harness manufacturing processes, materials, and industry standards (such as IPC/WHMA-A-620).
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex technical documents and develop accurate cost estimates.
• Strong negotiation skills to manage customer expectations and secure profitable contracts.
• Proficiency in the latest estimating software and technology platforms to enhance accuracy and efficiency in cost estimation.
• Familiar with building estimates by gathering drawings, BOMs, specification sheets, and other project-related documents.
• Ability to provide accurate and timely updates of project files within the ERP system, reflecting any changes or adjustments to estimates.
• Experience in managing or overseeing projects from the quoting stage through to production and delivery.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Proficiency in estimating software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as Mie Trak Pro, Paperless Parts, or similar platforms.
• Preferred background or previous experience in Engineering, specifically in Mechanical Engineering.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and their application in cost estimation.

Location: Morgan Hill, CA

Type: Fulltime