ROLE: Commercial Estimating Engineer/Manager
LOCATION: Oxfordshire
SALARY: £45,000 - £55,000 per annum
JOB TYPE: Full-time
Overview:
We are seeking a Commercial Estimating Engineer to join a precision engineering and manufacturing business based in Oxford. This role is pivotal in evaluating customer enquiries, producing accurate and timely manufacturing cost estimates, and managing contracts from initial enquiry through to completion. The successful candidate will combine strong technical knowledge with commercial awareness, customer engagement, and a right-first-time mindset.
Key Responsibilities:
* Evaluate customer enquiries for machined components and assemblies, interpreting engineering drawings and digital data to define manufacturing requirements.
* Produce accurate and competitive cost estimates and quotations within agreed timeframes, clearly documenting assumptions and methodologies.
* Develop optimum manufacturing methods, capturing all relevant technical and commercial information to support quoting decisions.
* Project manage new business opportunities, generating project plans and required documentation.
* Prepare clear and concise quotations, submitting for internal review prior to customer issue.
* Conduct quick-load activities for new orders, ensuring all material, specification, and process information is captured prior to release.
* Carry out detailed contract reviews, adopting a critical approach to ensure clarity, compliance, and right-first-time delivery.
* Negotiate raw material pricing and place purchase orders as required, liaising with suppliers and sourcing new vendors for outsourced processes.
* Provide technical support relating to methods, tooling, and manufacturing strategy throughout the contract lifecycle.
* Monitor contract profitability and review performance with production and supply chain teams, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
* Actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, delivery, and cost.
* Maintain regular communication with customers, ensuring they are kept informed throughout the contract.
* Ensure strict adherence to company safety, quality, and conduct procedures.
* Maintain a clean, organised, and professional working environment.
* Work collaboratively within the team, sharing best practice and supporting colleagues as required.
Skills & Experience:
* Apprentice-trained engineer or equivalent qualification in a mechanical or engineering discipline.
* Strong background in mechanical engineering with the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and technical information.
* Previous experience within a subcontract machining environment is highly advantageous.
* Commercial awareness with experience estimating, quoting, or managing engineering contracts.
* Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels.
* Good level of IT literacy, including familiarity with ERP or estimating systems.
* Proactive, flexible, and positive “can-do” attitude with a strong work ethic.
* Knowledge of Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing principles is beneficial.
* Experience in an account management or customer-facing engineering role is advantageous.