Buyer - Estimator

BUYER/ESTIMATOR POSITION SUMMARY

The Buyer / Estimator is responsible for sourcing materials, negotiating supplier pricing, and developing accurate cost estimates for electrical and pneumatic projects. This role partners closely with Sales, Engineering, and key suppliers to ensure competitive pricing, supply continuity, and profitable, well-supported customer proposals.

Serving as a critical financial gatekeeper, the Buyer / Estimator develops accurate, competitive, and margin‑conscious quotes through effective supplier sourcing, bill of materials (BOM) development, and cost modeling. The successful candidate plays a direct role in protecting margin integrity prior to order release while supporting on time delivery and overall customer satisfaction.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Estimating & Quoting

·        Builds BOMs from customer specs, quotes, or partial info

·        Prepares detailed cost estimates based on customer drawings, specifications, and bill of materials (BOMs) Develops full cost models (material, labor, outside services)

·        Analyzes material, labor, and overhead costs to develop competitive and profitable quotes

·        Collaborates with Sales and Engineering to clarify scope, specifications, and technical requirements as well as pricing strategy.

·        Identifies cost-saving opportunities and alternative materials or processes

·        Maintains quote history and cost data for future reference

Purchasing / Buying

·        Sources materials, components, and services from approved suppliers list

·        Requests and evaluates supplier quotes for price, lead time, and quality

·        Negotiates pricing, terms, and delivery schedules

·        Issues purchase orders and ensures timely delivery

·        Monitors supplier performance and resolves delivery or quality issues

·        Maintains accurate vendor and pricing records

·        Regularly assists the Sourcing Manager with analyzing inventory levels, including  organizing annual inventory count.

·        Frequently updates and maintains Streamline production tracker as well as the job tracker, expediting vendor purchases orders where needed.

·        Tracks delivery of parts ordered for Streamline builds

Strategic Sourcing

·        Identifies and qualifies suppliers for cost, quality, and lead time, updating approved supplier list as new suppliers are identified

·        Drives competitive quoting (not just “3 quotes and pick one”)

·        Negotiates pricing and terms aligned with margin targets

·        Understands supplier capabilities for future quoting leverage

Pre-Order Ownership

·        Validates pricing before order release

·        Flags risk: long lead items, volatile pricing, single-source suppliers

·        Ensures BOM accuracy before handoff to operations

Cross-Functional Coordination

·        Works with Production and Planning to align material availability with schedules

·        Supports new product introduction (NPI) and prototype builds

·        Communicate changes in cost, availability, or specifications to internal stakeholders

·        Assist with inventory optimization and cost control initiatives

·        Works with Customer Care to ensure clean order entry

·        Supports Sales Engineers with pricing strategy

·        Coordinates with Purchasing on supplier transitions

Preferred Qualifications

·        3–7+ years of experience in purchasing, estimating, or supply chain in a manufacturing environment

·        Working knowledge of industrial systems including electrical controls, cable assemblies and pneumatics.

·        Strong understanding of BOMs, drawings, and manufacturing processes

·        Experience with ERP/MRP systems

·        Solid negotiation and supplier management skills

·        Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with a focus on Excel (cost modeling, analysis)

·        Ability to read and interpret technical drawings

·        Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

·        Well organized, able to function well under pressure and with high volumes.

·        Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

Core Competencies

·        Cost analysis and financial acumen

·        Attention to detail and accuracy

·        Effective problem-solving and decision-making

·        Strong communication and collaboration

·        Excellent time management skills with the ability to handle multiple quotes/projects

Preferred Experience

·        Experience in contract manufacturing or value-added distribution

·        Familiarity with electronics, mechanical components, or assemblies

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·        The employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time.

·        The employee must constantly reach with hands and fingers.

·        Frequent hearing and talking is required.

·        The employee may occasionally lift up to 35 lbs.

Why Work at Pearse Bertram?

At Pearse Bertram, our people are the foundation of everything we do. We believe in rewarding hard work, supporting personal and professional growth, and fostering a workplace culture where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Competitive Total Compensation

We offer a competitive total compensation package designed to recognize performance and support financial well-being. This includes market‑competitive pay, opportunities for growth and advancement, and a solid benefits offering that supports employees at every stage of their career.

Comprehensive Benefits That Matter

We invest in benefits that support your health, security, and work‑life balance, including:

• Choice of HDHP with Health Savings Account (HSA)  or PPO medical plans
• Dental and vision insurance options and discount plans
• Short‑term disability coverage paid by Pearse Bertram
• Optional life, accident, and supplemental insurance coverage options
• Immediate vesting 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match
• A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program
• Annual gym reimbursement to support wellness
• Confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Growth, Stability, and Opportunity

Pearse Bertram offers more than just a job—we offer a career. Employees are supported by:

• Opportunities for advancement within a growing organization
• Meaningful work across engineering, manufacturing, and business operations
• A collaborative environment where skills and contributions are valued

A Culture You Can Feel

We take pride in creating a positive and engaging workplace culture. From monthly company events and celebrations to everyday teamwork and collaboration, we foster an environment where employees enjoy coming to work and being part of a close‑knit team.

Join Pearse Bertram and be part of a company that values its people, invests in their future, and celebrates their success.

In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at Pearse Bertram will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. Pearse Bertram provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age (over 18), past or present history of mental disorder, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. We are fully committed to this concept and to obtaining the cooperation and understanding of this effort by all of our employees.