Job Description

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Business Development & Sales Representative with strong estimating and quoting skills for our precision machine shop. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in generating new business, maintaining client relationships, and driving revenue growth in industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, oil & gas, and heavy machining. In addition, this person will be responsible for preparing accurate estimates and quotes for projects involving 5-axis machining, lathe work, and other precision machining services along with pricing raw materials and getting additional outside services performed.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and execute a strategic sales plan to identify, target, and acquire new customers in the aerospace, defense, automotive, oil & gas, and heavy machining sectors.
Build and maintain strong relationships with existing clients, focusing on understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions.
Identify and pursue opportunities for expanding the business with both new and existing customers.
Attend industry trade shows, conferences, and networking events to promote the company’s capabilities and generate leads.
Conduct market research to identify trends, customer needs, and potential new markets for growth.
Collaborate with the internal team to ensure smooth onboarding of new clients and seamless project execution.

Estimating & Quoting:

Review RFQs (Request for Quotations) from customers to understand project specifications, requirements, and technical drawings.
Prepare accurate cost estimates for machining projects, including material, labor, tooling, and outside services such as heat treating, coating, or specialized processes.
Collaborate with engineering, production, and purchasing teams to ensure that quotes reflect realistic lead times and resource availability.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material prices, machining processes, and industry standards to ensure competitive and accurate pricing.
Present quotes to clients and negotiate terms to close deals while ensuring profitability.

Customer Relations & Account Management:

Provide exceptional customer service, acting as the primary point of contact for new and existing clients.
Communicate effectively with customers regarding project status, changes, or challenges.
Follow up on estimates and quotes to close deals, meet sales targets, and drive revenue growth.
Regularly report sales activity, pipeline status, and forecasting to management.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Coordination:

Work closely with the production and quality control teams to ensure that customer specifications are met and projects are delivered on time.
Coordinate with the procurement team to ensure availability of required materials for quoting and production.
Provide feedback to engineering and operations on potential design improvements or cost-saving measures based on customer needs and feedback.

Qualifications:

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred, or equivalent experience in the precision machining industry.

Experience

3-5 years of experience in business development, sales, or account management within a precision machine shop or similar manufacturing environment.
Experience preparing estimates and quotes for CNC machining, 5-axis machining, and lathe work.
Experience working in industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, oil & gas, or heavy machining preferred.
Experience in reviewing and understanding military specifications, interpreting complex drawings, and familiar with working on aerospace and defense products
Bonus experience:
Understanding of GD&T
Purchasing and procurement experience
Direct machining experience

Skills:

Strong technical understanding of machining processes, materials, and machining equipment (e.g., 5-axis CNC machines, lathes).
Proven ability to generate leads, close sales, and manage customer relationships.
Strong estimating skills with a track record of preparing accurate and competitive quotes.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications.
Proficiency in ERP or quoting software, as well as Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.

Attributes:

Highly motivated and goal-oriented, with a proactive approach to driving business growth.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
Strong time-management skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Work Environment:

Primarily office-based, with some time spent on the shop floor interacting with production teams.
Regular travel to client locations, industry events, and trade shows may be required.

Compensation: