Estimator (Mechanical & Materials Engineering)

Job Description

Salary: $115,000-150,000

Internal Code: EST1

Reports to: Director of Business Operations

Location: MATSYS HQ

MATSYS, Inc. is seeking an Estimator (Mechanical & Materials Science Engineering) to support our research/development and manufacturing facilities in Sterling, VA. The Estimator will be responsible for analyzing project requirements, preparing detailed cost estimates for proposals and active projects, and supporting strategic decision-making for both government and commercial programs. This role requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of engineering and manufacturing processes, and the ability to work closely with engineers, program managers, and business development teams in a rapid quoting/submission environment.

Due to the nature of contract requirements, only U.S. citizens will be considered for this role.

Description

Develop accurate cost estimates for R&D programs, prototypes, testing, and production activities

Interpret technical drawings, engineering specifications, and statements of work to determine scope and resource requirements

Assess labor, materials, equipment, subcontractor services, and overhead costs associated with proposed projects

Collaborate with engineering staff to validate technical assumptions, schedules, and cost impacts of design alternatives

Prepare cost summaries, pricing models, and supporting documentation for proposals and competitive bids (government and commercial)

Support compliance with FARS/DFARS costing standards and customer-specific proposal requirements

Track actual costs versus estimates to refine estimating accuracy

Maintain current knowledge of supplier pricing, labor rates, industry cost trends, and relevant emerging technologies

Assist in the creation of competitive proposals that are accurate, responsive, and strategically priced

Other duties as assigned

Required

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline; equivalent technical experience considered

3+ years of experience as an estimator, cost analyst, or project controls specialist in an engineering, manufacturing, or R&D environment

5+ years in an engineering discipline

Familiarity with government contracting cost principles (FAR, DFARS)

Strong technical understanding of mechanical systems and prototype development

Proficiency in cost-estimating and financial modeling processes and tools, as well as ERP/MRP systems

Preferred

Experience bidding, winning and supporting government-funded programs

Familiarity with manufacturing techniques, such as CNC machining and additive manufacturing

Knowledge of industry pricing benchmarks and supplier network relationships

Competencies

Commitment to maintaining confidentiality of information

Work Execution & Excellence: efficient planning & quality execution, ability to meet deliverables & deadlines, drive towards excellence. Attention to detail for accurate record-keeping, documentation, and error minimization throughout the cost estimation cycle.

Communication & Team Impact: Technical reporting (oral and written) & sharing of technical information, accountability, team player commitment. Competence in clarifying technical requirements and fostering cross-functional teamwork.

Technical Expertise & Development: Commitment to continual learning. Ability to interpret complex technical information and communicate findings in business terms. Capability to read and interpret technical documents, drawings, CAD files, and engineering standards.

Autonomy, Judgment & Decision-Making: Sounds judgment and planning ability, risk assessment skills, creativity & critical problem-solving. Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail. Proficiency in risk evaluation and financial modeling for budgeting and cost projections.

Commitment to MATSYS core values and ideals:

Safety: Safety is at the forefront of our decision-making. We hold each other responsible to ensure the health and safety of our team at all times.

Quality: We stake our reputation on our impeccable standards. We provide the utmost quality in everything that we do and deliver above expectations, both as individuals and as a team.

Integrity: We are accountable, transparent, and act with respect and in the best interests of our customers, communities, and employees.

Teamwork: Good ideas come from everyone and great ideas come from us working together.

Impact: We are responsive and effect positive and ground-breaking change, delivering excellence every step of the way.

About MATSYS Inc.

MATSYS is a full-service provider with over 30 years of experience delivering materials expertise and prototyping solutions to the defense, energy, and pharmaceutical sectors.

We specialize in developing advanced, integrated technologies for defense applications, with a strong focus on next-generation warheads and small to medium caliber ammunition. Our deep knowledge of advanced materials, novel alloy development, and our multidisciplinary approach to complex challenges foster unique opportunities for innovation and cross-industry collaboration.

MATSYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics protected by law or irrelevant to performance, unless otherwise required by law.

MATSYS uses E-Verify to verify right-to-work.

MATSYS is a Drug-Free Workplace. Candidates are required to pass a pre-employment background investigation and drug test prior following receipt of a conditional job offer.

Full-time