Cost Estimator

Company: Phillips Tube Group
Location: Middletown
Posted on: February 21, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Position Overview The Cost Estimator is responsible for analyzing project requirements and preparing accurate cost estimates for steel tube products, fabrication, and related services. This role involves evaluating tubular dimensions, specifications, technical drawings, material requirements, labor, production processes, and market pricing to support competitive quoting, profitability analysis, and strategic decision?making. This position reports to the Vice President of Sales. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Analysis Prepare detailed and accurate quotations for PTG’s tubular products, including raw materials, processing, fabrication, packaging, and transportation. Review prints, specifications, and customer requirements to determine material dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing needs. Apply production times, labor rates, equipment usage, and overhead allocations. Evaluate supplier quotes for raw steel, coatings, finishes, and outsourced services. Maintain cost models for various steel tube sizes, grades, and manufacturing scenarios. · Conduct post?project or post?quote variance reviews by comparing estimated vs. actual costs and update cost models accordingly. · Perform cost?related risk assessments and develop alternative pricing scenarios based on material volatility, production constraints, or changing customer requirements. Quoting & Pricing Prepare customer quotes and proposals within required timelines. Ensure pricing aligns with company margin guidelines, market conditions, and cost fluctuations. Collaborate with sales, purchasing, and operations to confirm pricing strategies and feasibility. Data & Documentation Maintain a database of historical cost information, supplier pricing, and industry benchmarks. Track steel market price trends and adjust estimates accordingly. Document all estimate assumptions, data sources, and calculation methodologies. Cross?Functional Collaboration Work closely with engineering and production teams to identify cost?saving opportunities. · Identify and recommend process improvements, alternative materials, or production methods that reduce cost while maintaining quality and feasibility. Coordinate with purchasing to validate material availability and updated pricing. Support management with budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis. Interact with Sales and customers to ensure all customer needs are met. Qualifications Required Experience in cost estimating, preferably within steel manufacturing, metal fabrication, or industrial products. Strong understanding of steel tube specifications such as gauge, alloy grades, tolerances, and forming processes. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings (CAD experience a plus). Proficiency in Excel or estimating software. Strong mathematical and analytical skills. Accounting education. Bachelor’s Degree. Preferred Background in manufacturing, industrial engineering, or supply chain. Experience with ERP or MRP systems. Knowledge of welding methods, cutting, bending, and finishing processes related to steel tubular products. Key Skills Cost analysis and modeling Technical drawing interpretation Vendor and cost negotiation Attention to detail and accuracy Strong communication and documentation skills Time management and the ability to prioritize and handle multiple quotes simultaneously Work Environment Office?based with regular collaboration with sales, purchasing, and operations departments. Occasional shop?floor visits to observe processes and validate estimating assumptions. Company Description We are proud to be a woman-owned, American-based business that produces American products. We are one of the few tube companies in the country that also specializes in coated steel products. A manufacturing powerhouse for over 50-years, you can find our steel tube in everything from your automobile, furnace, dishwasher, recreational vehicles, appliances and so much more. As our company continues to thrive and grow, we are now seeking a Team Operations Lead located in Shelby, Ohio at our Tutella Logistics location! The ideal candidate must perform at the highest levels of safety, quality, and efficiency. Company Description We are proud to be a woman-owned, American-based business that produces American products. We are one of the few tube companies in the country that also specializes in coated steel products.\n\nA manufacturing powerhouse for over 50-years, you can find our steel tube in everything from your automobile, furnace, dishwasher, recreational vehicles, appliances and so much more. As our company continues to thrive and grow, we are now seeking a Team Operations Lead located in Shelby, Ohio at our Tutella Logistics location! The ideal candidate must perform at the highest levels of safety, quality, and efficiency.

Keywords: Phillips Tube Group, Indianapolis , Cost Estimator, Engineering , Middletown, Indiana