Job purpose :
- To prepare accurate, detailed, and competitive quotations for products, components, or large-scale manufacturing projects by analysing technical specifications, production requirements, and customer needs.
- The Estimator works closely with sales, engineering, and production teams to develop quotes and proposals that align with the companys commercial objectives while ensuring feasibility, profitability, and compliance with technical standards and timelines.
Key responsibilities :
Estimating & Quotation Development
Analyse drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to determine project scope.Liaise with engineering, procurement, and production teams to validate costing assumptions.Compile a quotation as per the specification of the organisation by obtaining various quotes from subcontractors, vendors and suppliersCompile quotation by calculating direct labour (assembly-fabrication-welding) costs, machine costs, and material costsUnderstand the need / s of our various customers to ensure we quote accurately and competitivelyDetermine factors affecting costs, such as production time, materials, direct labour and servicesWork to obtain material costs that fits the customers' requirements namely lead time, price and alternatesCompile damage reports on repair jobs together with the technical team to accompany quotationsPresenting prepared estimates to managementSales Support
Collaborate with the sales team to align technical estimates with customer needs and expectations.Risk & Cost Management
Assess commercial and technical risksReview and manage pricing strategies in line with market conditions and company margins.Reporting & Analysis
Maintain a pipeline of active quotations and monitor win / loss ratios.Prepare monthly management reportsThis role interacts internally with :
Engineering,Procurement,Production,FinanceQualityThis role interacts externally with :
CustomersSuppliersCompetencies required :
Qualifications
National Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or relatedKnowledge
Familiarity with South African labour and materials markets and pricing structures.Solid understanding of relevant industry standards and project management principles.Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and BOMs (Bills of Materials).Proficiency in estimating tools / softwareDeep understanding of machining, welding, fabrication, assembly, and other industrial processes.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and 3D models.Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor) and integration with estimating workflows.Currency fluctuations, inflation, and logistics costs specific to the South African context.Experience
Minimum 710 years of estimating experience in a heavy manufacturing or engineering environment (e.g., steel fabrication, mining equipment, process plants).Expertise in preparing complex cost estimates and bid proposals for heavy manufacturing projects (e.g., steel, mining equipment, industrial machinery).Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (including Power Query, pivot tables, macros).Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Syspro, Oracle).Technical Competencies
Advanced numerical and analytical skills.Advanced Estimating & Costing SkillsEngineering & Manufacturing Process KnowledgeSales & Commercial AcumenTechnical Drawing Interpretation & CAD IntegrationSupply Chain & Procurement AwarenessRisk managementERP and Data Analytics ProficiencyTendering & Bid ManagementRegulatory & Industry ComplianceBehavioural Competencies
Negotiation skills.Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.Analytical Thinking & Attention to DetailCustomer OrientationCommunication & InfluencingCollaboration & TeamworkProblem Solving & InnovationResilience & AdaptabilityEthical Judgment & Integrity