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- Tasks: Take charge of estimating processes and deliver accurate costings for engineering projects.
- Company: Established precision engineering manufacturer in nuclear and defence sectors.
- Benefits: Salary between £40,000 - £55,000, structured training, and clear career progression.
- Why this job: Shape your role based on experience and make a real impact in a growing business.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of engineering drawings and machining processes.
- Other info: Stable work environment with opportunities for advancement.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 55000 £ per year.
Salary: £40,000 - £55,000 (DOE)
Location: Near Abingdon, Oxfordshire (commutable from Didcot, Oxford, Wantage, Wallingford, Witney)
Hours: Monday - Friday (Day Shift)
We are working with a well-established precision engineering manufacturer supplying into sectors such as nuclear, defence and advanced engineering. They are looking to bring in a Manufacturing Estimating Engineer / Estimating Manager who can take ownership of the estimating process and deliver robust, accurate costings.
This role can be shaped around your experience — whether you are a developing estimator or already operating at a more senior/manager level.
What’s on Offer
- £40,000 - £55,000 depending on experience
- Structured training on machinery, cycle times and internal systems
- Long-term opportunity within a stable and growing engineering business
- Clear progression into a more senior commercial/managerial role
- Clean, organised and well-run manufacturing environment
The Role
- Read and interpret detailed engineering drawings
- Break down jobs into operations, materials, labour and mark-up
- Assess machining routes (milling, turning, CNC), tolerances and complex features
- Follow structured estimating processes and SOPs — no guesswork
- Liaise with internal teams to validate assumptions and costing accuracy
- Communicate with customers, managing expectations and timelines
- Proactively follow up on quotes and provide updates where required
- Support customer meetings once fully up to speed
What They’re Looking For
- Strong ability to read and understand engineering drawings and understand GD&T
- Solid background within machining or precision engineering (ideally time-served)
- Analytical mindset — able to visualise how components will be manufactured
- Meticulous, process-driven and detail-focused
- Reliable with a strong work ethic
- Comfortable asking questions and validating assumptions
- Stable work history
Nice to Have (Not Essential)
- Experience within low-volume, high-complexity environments (e.g. nuclear, defence, scientific, precision engineering)
- Exposure to multiple processes (milling, turning, welding, assembly, testing)
- Experience responding to RFQs or tenders
Application Process
To apply, please send your CV highlighting:
- Engineering drawing experience
- Machining or shop-floor background
- Any estimating or quoting experience
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a practical drawing/quoting exercise focused on their thought process and approach.
Apply now or contact Zachary Pyne at Syntech Recruitment to discuss this Manufacturing Estimating Engineer / Estimating Manager vacancy further.
Syntech Recruitment are operating as a Recruitment Agency for this vacancy.
Manufacturing Estimating Engineer / Estimating Manager employer: Syntech Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Syntech Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Estimating Engineer / Estimating Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local engineering meetups, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to estimating and engineering. Think about how you can showcase your analytical mindset and attention to detail. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and interested.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed that you won’t find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Estimating Engineer / Estimating Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your engineering drawing experience and any relevant machining background. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your strengths!
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your estimating or quoting experience, be as specific as possible. We love numbers and examples, so if you’ve worked on complex projects, let us know how you tackled them!
Show Your Analytical Side: Since this role requires a strong analytical mindset, include examples that demonstrate how you visualise manufacturing processes. We’re keen to see how you approach problem-solving in your applications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Syntech Recruitment Ltd
✨Master the Engineering Drawings
Make sure you brush up on your ability to read and interpret engineering drawings. This is crucial for the role, so practice breaking down complex designs into operations, materials, and labour. Being able to discuss specific examples during your interview will show that you’re ready to take ownership of the estimating process.
✨Know Your Machining Processes
Familiarise yourself with various machining routes like milling, turning, and CNC. Understanding these processes will not only help you in the interview but also demonstrate your analytical mindset. Be prepared to discuss how you would assess tolerances and complex features in real-world scenarios.
✨Prepare for Practical Exercises
Since shortlisted candidates will complete a practical drawing/quoting exercise, it’s essential to practice this beforehand. Try simulating the exercise with a friend or colleague, focusing on your thought process and approach. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key, especially when liaising with internal teams and managing customer expectations. Think about examples where you’ve successfully communicated complex information or managed timelines. This will highlight your reliability and strong work ethic, which are highly valued in this role.