At a Glance
- Tasks: Bridge engineering and purchasing by estimating costs for multi-million-pound projects.
- Company: Join Oliver Valves, a global leader in valve technology with over 45 years of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, 31 days leave, pension scheme, and healthcare benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and recognition for long service.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while optimising costs and ensuring quality.
- Qualifications: Engineering background, strong negotiation skills, and experience with machine drawings required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Knutsford, Parkgate Industrial Estate (office based)
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 - 17:00 with 30 minute lunch
Can you look at a valve drawing and see the exact machining hours and material costs behind it? We’re looking for a Technical Estimator to bridge the gap between engineering and purchasing for our multi-million‑pound projects. Reporting to the Head of Purchasing, you’ll take the lead on commodity pricing (forgings, fasteners, bar) and drive down the total cost of acquisition.
About Us: With over 45 years of valve technology innovations, Oliver Valves is a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of high‑quality valves and valve systems, serving industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical and other critical sectors. We have won recognised awards for Export, Manufacturing and Growth – as well as the coveted Queen’s Award and recently the King’s Award for Industry. We’re a profitable, privately owned, fast‑moving company looking for talented individuals to join our team and deliver our strategic objectives.
What You’ll Be Doing: Unlike a standard procurement role, this position sits at the heart of our operations. You will be responsible for translating complex engineering requirements into competitive, accurate costs. Reporting directly to the Head of Purchasing, you will manage a multi‑million pound spend and ensure we secure the best total cost of acquisition without compromising on the stringent quality standards our industry demands.
- Precision Quoting: Generate competitive costs against client enquiries, specifically pricing key commodities including bar, forgings and fasteners.
- Cost Optimization: Drive the reduction of total acquisition costs across raw materials, labour, machining and finished components.
- Supply Chain Intelligence: Monitor supplier capacity to optimise lead times and ensure our production schedule remains agile.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the bridge between the supply chain and internal operational departments to ensure seamless production flow.
- Quality Assurance: Ensure all quoted components strictly adhere to defined technical specifications and quality standards.
What You’ll Bring: The Technical "Know‑How": A solid engineering or machine shop background is essential. You must be able to interpret machine drawings to determine accurate pricing. Market Acumen: An excellent understanding of commodity markets and the technical standards of metals. Negotiation Power: Proven ability to influence vendors and stakeholders to achieve better costs and reduced lead times. Systems Fluency: Experience working within an integrated ERP system (such as SAP or Oracle) and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Analytical Mindset: Strong organisational skills with a track record of implementing successful costing techniques. Demonstrable experience in commodity management and reducing overall acquisition costs. Direct experience working with or within machine shops. Proven ability to manage high‑value spend in a fast‑paced engineering environment.
What’s On Offer? A competitive salary that is negotiable based on skill and experience level. Discretionary bonus after 1 year’s service. 31 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) which increases with tenure. A company pension scheme to help you plan for the future. Medical cash plan benefits, covering essential healthcare costs such as dental treatment, check‑ups, optical care, physiotherapy and more. Long service awards, recognising your continued commitment. Access to an Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support.
How to Apply: Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience with machined component costing.
Technical Estimator in Knutsford employer: Oliver Valves
As a Quality Certification Technician at our valve manufacturing facility, you will be part of a dynamic team that values precision and collaboration. We offer competitive salaries, a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth, and opportunities to enhance your skills in a thriving industry. Join us in a location known for its innovation and commitment to quality, where your contributions will make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Estimator in Knutsford
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Oliver Valves, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Estimator in Knutsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Oliver Valves specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oliver Valves
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Oliver Valves, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Oliver Valves value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
