Who Is Prince? Founded in 1959 by Ed Miller near Chicago, Prince Industries has grown from a one-man shop into a global manufacturing partner. With seven facilities across the U.S. and China, we serve industries from hydraulics to aerospace, handling everything from just-in-time components to high-volume assemblies. At Prince, we don’t just make parts—we solve complex supply chain challenges. We are a strategic partner, focused on helping clients improve products, reduce costs, and simplify operations. Certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and AS9100 standards, we combine quality, innovation, and growth-minded thinking to deliver real value. Job Summary The Jr. Engineering Tech is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for contract machining projects. This role requires a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and labor requirements. The estimator will collaborate with engineering, sales, and production teams to ensure competitive and profitable pricing strategies. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Review RFQs, drawings, and specs to define project scope and requirements. • Calculate costs for materials, labor, and outside processes with ERP(Epicor) and Excel calculators. • Prepare and submit cost estimates and quotations to stakeholders or clients. • Work with purchasing to get updated material prices and lead times. • Collaborate with engineering to improve design efficiency and reduce costs. • Maintain precise records of estimates, assumptions, and historical data for subsequent use. • Join design reviews and pre-production meetings to confirm cost alignment. • Monitor developments in material pricing and advancements in manufacturing technologies. • Evaluates updated customer prints to identify required quote adjustments or impacts on manufacturing. • Ensures design intent and component quality can be achieved. • Reviews sourcing of material and suppliers to meet objectives and deadlines. • Responsible for estimating mixture of low and high-volume manufactured components and assemblies. • Additional responsibilities assigned by supervisor. • Contacts customers to resolve technical issues as required. Required Skills/Attributes • Experience with 3D software and nesting software applications. • Experience with bill of materials and methods of manufacturing. • Ability to interpret blueprints and technical drawings, including GD&T and specifications. • Thorough understanding of material classifications and finishing processes. • Knowledgeable about various plating and heat treatment methodologies. • Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills. • Proven ability to multitask and manage concurrent projects efficiently. • Proficient in computer applications, including MS Office Suite, Adobe products, and email correspondence. • Experienced in utilizing MRP systems. • Capable of working independently and proactively taking initiative. • Exhibits a strong work ethic and maintains high motivation levels. Education and Experience • Bachelor's degree in engineering (or related field of study) or 2-year technical certification with equivalent related engineering or machining experience preferred but not required. • Some previous work experience in engineering or related manufacturing environments. • Solid background in CNC machining, equipment, and tooling. Physical Job Requirements • Regularly required to walk or sit the duration of workday, 8-9 hours. • Frequently required to perform repetitive hand movements when doing computer work. • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision in which 20/20 vision or corrected vision to 20/20 vision is required. • Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts when in the plant. • Occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles resulting from metalworking and oils. • The noise level in the work environment is sometimes loud when working in the plant, in which hearing protection is required. Comp: Starting at $65,000 annually Due to ITAR regulations, only U.S. persons—defined as U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), and U.S. nationals—are eligible for this position. *We are an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer. Applicants can learn more about Prince's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster ( https://www.eeoc.gov/employers ) #indeedcnc Benefits • Paid vacation and holidays • Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans • Short and Long Term Disability Plans • 401(k) Retirement Plan with strong employer match • Company paid life insurance & AD&D • Partial tuition reimbursement for job relation classes • PPE reimbursement • Your specific benefits package will depend on your position, location, and years of service with Prince.