Cost Estimator
Onsite - Rockford, Illinois
Direct Hire
Salary: $90,000 - $100,000+ (DOE)
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and technically driven Cost Estimator with a strong background in machine tools, industrial equipment, or precision manufacturing . This role is responsible for developing accurate, data-driven cost estimates, supporting proposal development, and improving cost standardization across product lines.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with mechanical assemblies and manufacturing processes, the ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and BOMs, and a collaborative approach to working with engineering and production teams to optimize design-to-cost performance.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Cost Estimation
Interpret and analyze detailed mechanical drawings, GD&T, assembly prints, and technical documentation
Develop detailed bottom-up cost estimates for mechanical, structural, electrical, and purchased components
Evaluate manufacturing processes including machining, fabrication, assembly, and testing to determine labor hours and routing
Collaborate with engineering and production teams to validate cycle times, methods, and resource requirements
Perform should-cost analysis for machined parts, weldments, and complex assemblies
BOM & Cost Structure Management
Build and maintain multi-level Bills of Materials (BOMs) with complete cost roll-ups
Standardize cost structures across machine platforms and product lines
Identify major cost drivers and recommend opportunities for cost reduction
Support design-to-cost initiatives through manufacturability and material optimization feedback
Supplier & Component Costing
Identify critical components and obtain supplier quotations
Interface directly with vendors to secure technical and commercial pricing
Evaluate supplier capabilities, lead times, and competitiveness
Support sourcing decisions through detailed cost comparisons
Cost Modeling & Continuous Improvement
Maintain and update labor standards, material pricing, and cost databases
Conduct annual cost reviews and validate standard costing assumptions
Drive value engineering and process improvement initiatives
Support machine platform standardization to improve scalability and reduce variability
Technical & Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with Mechanical Engineering, Project Engineering, and Technical teams
Participate in design reviews, providing cost and manufacturability input
Support product development by aligning engineering decisions with cost targets
Collaborate with Area Managers to develop technically accurate and competitive proposals
Analyze estimated vs. actual project costs and identify variances
Assist with commissioning and startup activities to ensure cost and performance alignment
Qualifications
5-10 years of experience in machine tools, CNC systems, industrial equipment, or precision manufacturing
Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, assemblies, and GD&T
Deep understanding of machining, fabrication, assembly, and manufacturing processes
Experience developing detailed cost models and BOM structures
Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel
Excellent analytical, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field preferred but not required
Preferred Background
Experience with machine tool assemblies and automation systems
Knowledge of cost reduction, value engineering, and design-for-manufacturing principles
Familiarity with supplier sourcing and technical procurement processes
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here (https://www.mykelly.com/help-support-working-with-kelly-us/#Benefits) for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.
Why Kelly ® Engineering?
Your engineering skills are in demand, but how do you find the right fit? Easy. At Kelly Engineering, our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world's most critical challenges. We connect you with leading organizations where you can collaborate on innovative projects, work with cutting-edge technologies and accelerate your growth. Whether you prefer the variety and flexibility of short-term projects or are looking for a long-term opportunity, we're here to guide you to the next step in your engineering career.
About Kelly
Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we're obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it's about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It's the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It's the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California's state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
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Kelly Services is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We welcome, value, and embrace diversity at all levels and are committed to building a team that is inclusive of a variety of backgrounds, communities, perspectives, and abilities. At Kelly, we believe that the more inclusive we are, the better services we can provide. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to Kelly's Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California's state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment.
