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Director of Estimating

Job Description

Title: Director of Estimating – Manufacturing & Power Systems

Location: Fontana, CA (supporting Dallas, TX facility as well)

Travel: ~25–30% domestic & international

Compensation: $170,000–$210,000 base + ~15% bonus | Unlimited PTO | Relocation available

Overview

We are seeking a Director of Estimating to lead and evolve the estimating function for a growing manufacturer of custom power distribution and protection systems. This newly created role will refine how complex, high-value projects are scoped, priced, and awarded—ensuring accurate, competitive, and profitable bids from the outset. Partnering closely with the General Manager, this leader will own estimating strategy across multiple product lines and markets, including utilities and data center infrastructure, while driving process improvement, team alignment, and executive-level visibility for the estimating organization.

About the Role

The Director of Estimating will oversee a well-established but evolving department consisting of estimators, applications engineers, and project coordinators, with one direct report (Estimating Manager). The focus is on improving bid accuracy, accelerating turnaround times, and strengthening margins on high-volume, custom-engineered projects ranging from $250K–$3M. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise, strong business judgment, and credible leadership presence, with the ability to bridge estimating, engineering, and operations while driving scalable process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead estimating activities across multiple facilities to ensure consistency, accuracy, and profitability
  • Develop and implement improved estimating tools, templates, and procedures to increase speed and win rates
  • Partner with the GM and leadership team on bid strategy, risk assessment, and pricing decisions
  • Mentor and develop the Estimating Manager and team; set clear expectations and accountability
  • Strengthen cross-functional collaboration with engineering, operations, and business development
  • Review and approve major estimates, pricing assumptions, and commercial terms
  • Track bid vs. actual performance and drive continuous margin improvement
  • Engage with customers as needed to support technical proposals and conceptual designs
  • Travel to other facilities and customer sites as required

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field ()
  • 8+ years of estimating experience within manufacturing, utilities, or industrial OEM environments
  • Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, and civil cost drivers
  • Proven experience leading and developing technical estimating teams
  • Ability to interpret electrical/mechanical drawings and commercial bid documents
  • Background in applications engineering or technical proposal development
  • Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; AutoCAD or SolidWorks experience a plus