Performance Profile: Estimator – Sheet Metal Fabrication

About Argon Industries:

Argon Industries is a leading precision metal fabrication company located in Milwaukee, WI. Renowned for delivering high-quality, custom-fabricated products, Argon serves a diverse customer base across industries including defense, energy, transportation, and commercial equipment. With a focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement, Argon fosters a collaborative work environment where employees are valued, supported, and empowered to grow their careers.

About the Position:

As an Estimator at Argon Industries, you will play a critical role in supporting the company’s operational and financial performance by developing accurate, efficient, and competitive cost estimates for fabricated metal parts and assemblies. This role involves interpreting engineering drawings, 3D models, and customer specifications to determine the most cost-effective manufacturing methods while ensuring alignment with quality standards, lead times, and market pricing.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3 years of experience in a sheet metal fabrication environment, combined with a working knowledge of fabrication processes, ERP systems (preferably JobBOSS), and estimating principles. Proficiency in interpreting 2D drawings, 3D models, and manufacturing instructions is essential for success in this role.

What You’ll Do:

• Evaluate, prioritize, and manage quotation requests to ensure timely and accurate delivery of cost estimates.
• Develop complete and detailed routings for parts and assemblies, specifying manufacturing processes, required materials, outside services, finishes, and labor hours.
• Lead collaborative quotation teams on larger, more complex estimate packages, organizing review meetings and facilitating process decisions.
• Partner with Engineering, Sales, Production, and Quality teams to gather insights, verify feasibility, and support pricing strategies.
• Analyze manufacturing risks, propose process improvements, and offer cost alternatives that optimize value and efficiency.
• Maintain up-to-date records, schedules, and work instructions pertaining to the estimating process, ensuring compliance with current market rates, surcharges, and lead times.
• Review historical job data, profitability reports, and process efficiencies to refine quoting practices and support strategic decision-making.
• Provide data and insight to support pricing strategies, risk assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Employee Value Proposition:

• Stable, Family-Owned Business: Join a well-established company with a strong reputation for quality and reliability in the metal fabrication industry.
• Team Culture: Work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment where open communication and professional respect are valued.
• Growth Opportunity: Take on increasing responsibility through leadership of quoting projects, involvement in continuous improvement initiatives, and potential career advancement.
• Work-Life Balance: Maintain a consistent weekday schedule, with flexibility to adjust hours as needed to meet critical deadlines.
• Professional Development: Benefit from hands-on training, exposure to advanced fabrication equipment, and opportunities to expand your knowledge in estimating and operations management.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and holiday pay.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a sheet metal fabrication environment.
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including laser cutting, CNC punching, press brake forming, welding (MIG/TIG/robotic), powder coating, and assembly.
• Experience using an ERP system (preferably JobBOSS).
• Basic proficiency in SolidWorks or similar 3D modeling software.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and math (geometry) skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to visualize three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings and perform “what-if” manufacturing analyses.
• Comfortable working on a computer for extended periods.