Manufacturing Cost Estimator Job at HGC Industries in Indianapolis

Job DetailsJob LocationCorporate Headquarters - Indianapolis, INPosition TypeFull TimeJob Shift8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday-FridayDescriptionHGC Industries is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing gaskets, sealing surfaces, and stamping. For over 50 years, our customers have trusted us to fulfill their advanced sealing & stamping requirements. We provide technical sealing and stamping solutions to customers around the globe through our excellence in engineering, technology, manufacturing, and customer service. Our mission is to create gaskets and components that satisfy the most complex manufacturing challenges and provide high-quality products and services to the world at a reasonable cost.With locations in the USA, Europe, and Asia, HGC Industries is a leading international supplier of components for the engine, transmission, processing, and material handling markets. As we grow, we will continue to develop our world-class design, development, and manufacturing capabilities. We pair our industry knowledge, application engineering, and technical expertise to create manufacturing solutions that satisfy even the most advanced requirements. We're proud to partner with our customers in every capacity as a true sealing industry expert.At HGC, our employees are the foundation of our success. We encourage our employees to use their strengths, expertise, and determination to deliver on our commitments and achieve individual growth. When you join HGC Industries, you become part of a diverse and collaborative team that leads innovation and provides cutting-edge solutions. JOB OVERVIEW: The Manufacturing Cost Estimator collects and analyzes data to estimate the time, money, resources, and labor required for product manufacturing. They support our customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders by working closely with production, engineering, sales, and purchasing to develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates that align with HGC's processes and customer requirements. This includes analyzing labor, materials, and run rates and supporting product and process development activities. The role requires strong analytical skills and collaboration across multiple teams to ensure cost-effective production strategies. The Cost Estimator contributes to HGCs goals & success by building relationships, supporting continuous improvement, and producing accurate cost projections and efficient processes, resulting in cost savings and operational excellence. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Lead the costing process, ensuring estimates align with customer requirements and project timelines.Develop accurate cost estimates for labor, materials, outside processing, and production lead time based on customer prints and specifications.Participate in product development activities such as APQP, DFMEA, and PFMEA to support cost-effective designs.Collaborate cross-functionally with teams to gather necessary information for part costing and drive successful quoting and project execution.Coordinate product planning and launch activities for newly awarded business opportunities.Manage the procurement of materials, tooling, and services in line with project needs.Coordinate with the supply chain team and external vendors to secure raw materials and outside services.Provide timely feedback and reports to stakeholders on the status and progress of ongoing quotes and projects.Monitor the status of submitted quotes (won, lost, pending) and ensure continuous improvement in the cost estimation process by analyzing outcomes and integrating lessons learned.Support operations by identifying and implementing process improvements on the shop floor, including tool design and cycle time optimization.Contribute to process improvement efforts by identifying opportunities for efficiency and cost savings.Update costing models based on process, materials, or production method changes.Analyze historical data and production trends to improve costing accuracy and support cost-reduction initiatives.Manage and update the customer specifications library to ensure compliance with current standards and requirements.Perform other duties as assignedREQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES: Understanding of Manufacturing Methods and Procedures, Process ImprovementAbility to read and understand blueprintsProficient math skills, including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry concepts.Ability to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously Ability to effectively manage both emotional and social intelligenceStrong interpersonal and customer service skillsStrong verbal and written communication skillsStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent time management skills and ability to efficiently manage priorities and tasks based on importance Excellent organizational skills and attention to detailAdaptability skills to effectively manage demands, frequent changes, delays, or unexpected eventsAbility to work self-sufficiently to ensure accuracy and quality of tasks Ability to navigate and resolve internal or external situations effectively and resourcefullyAbility to work effectively in a fast-paced environmentAbility to effectively manage both emotional and social intelligenceAbility to establish and maintain effective relationships with customers, co-workers, and HGC Industries stakeholdersQUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in BSME, BSMET, BSIE, or equivalent degree in an engineering discipline preferredMinimum of 3 years of relevant experience with cost estimatingor 4-6 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degreeProficient in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint3+ years of manufacturing preferredExperience with SolidWorks AutoCAD a plusPrior experience in the automotive industry a plusPHYSICAL DEMANDS: Sitting, standing, and walking for long periodsOccasionally, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawlOccasionally lifting, moving, and carrying up to 50 poundsENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:Manufacturing plant and office employees can/will be exposed to noise, dirt, dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and other airborne particles.TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:Occasional (less than 10%) travel to customers and suppliers when neededHGC Industries provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristics protected by federal, state, and local laws. ** This job description summarizes the typical job functions. It is not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties required by the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and functions may differ from those outlined in this job description and may change at any time.QualificationsBachelor's degree in BSME, BSMET, BSIE, or equivalent degree in an engineering discipline preferredMinimum of 3 years of relevant experience with cost estimatingOr 4-6 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree Proficient in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint3+ years of manufacturing preferredExperience with SolidWorks AutoCAD a plusPrior experience in the automotive industry a plus