Role: Senior Cost Estimator Location: BB18 6DX, UK Salary: GBP 50,000.00 p.a. About BUOYANCY AEROSPACE Enabling the free world’s leading aerospace, space, and defense institutions. BUOYANCY AEROSPACE was founded in 2022 to meet the rising demand for solutions in aerospace, space, and defense—markets underserved by a dysfunctional supply chain. We attract the most capable talent with integrity and build and leverage generative AI for digital and physical solutions. We are proud to contribute significantly to the most prestigious and complex aerospace, space, and defense platforms—some under confidential mandates. We are not a company of promises. With active production facilities in the UK and Germany and a growing workforce of currently >150 employees, we are scaling rapidly, but already delivering to our customers. Our culture is highly purpose-driven, constantly delivering innovation, exceptional standards, execution. This is a high-performance environment. If you seek meaningful work at the intersection of technology and defense, this is the place for you. Those looking for the comfort of a standard role are discouraged from applying. The Role: Senior Cost Estimator We are seeking a Senior Cost Estimator for the structural airframe components section of BUOYANCY AEROSPACE Ltd, UK. The successful candidate will service the subsidiaries of BUOYANCY AEROSPACE Ltd., BUOYANCY AEROSPACE V1 Ltd in the UK and BUOYANCY AEROSPACE DE GmbH in Germany. Key Responsibilities include the following dimensions. Cost Estimation and Quotation Preparation : Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for aerospace, space, and defence projects, in particular chemical surface treatments, CNC milling, turning, and assembly, including hard and soft metals als well as composites (lay-up, curing, routing, painting). Collaborate with engineering and production teams to evaluate manufacturing feasibility and identify cost-saving opportunities. Ensure compliance with industry standards, customer requirements, and internal policies. Analyse technical drawings, CAD models, and specifications to determine project scope, material requirements, and labour costs. Utilise estimation software and tools to streamline processes and improve accuracy. Strategic Cost Data Framework: Analyse market trends and cost drivers to define optimal pricing strategies to drive sustainable but aggressive growth. Build and maintain a structured internal cost database for sophisticated decision-making. Leverage software solutions to enhance cost estimation accuracy and uncover actionable insights. Identify opportunities to develop proprietary software solutions (no need to programme yourself, as we are in the process of building a dedicated development team). Supplier and Vendor Coordination : Obtain quotes for raw materials, subcontracted processes (e.g., heat treatments, surface finishes), and other services. Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and reliable delivery timelines. Process Improvement and Reporting : Continuously refine estimation methodologies to improve accuracy and efficiency. Maintain and update estimation databases, cost models, and pricing structures. Prepare detailed reports on estimation outcomes, win/loss analysis, and trends in project bids. Required Skills and Qualifications First and foremost, you must bring outstanding problem solving skills, strong work ethics, and integrity to the table. Furthermore, we consider the following formal requirements relevant. Educational Background : Degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. Equivalent experience will be considered. Experience : >2 years of experience in cost estimation, manufacturing, or engineering within the aerospace, space, or defence industry. Strong understanding of CNC machining (milling, turning), structural components (metalls and composites) manufacturing, and aerospace assembly processes. Technical Skills : Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and CAD models (e.g., using SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar tools). Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and estimation software. Knowledge of aerospace materials, treatments (anodizing, plating, etc.), and quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001). English and ideally one additional language (e.g. French, German, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Hindi, etc. Metallics and Composites engineering experience required. What We Offer We believe to offer something different. Strategic Impact: Shape critical operational processes and establish a legacy of excellence in a rapidly scaling organisation. Prestige and Innovation: Work on high-stakes projects that define the future of aerospace, space, and defense. Meritocratic Culture: Join an organisation where excellence, integrity, and results are the foundation of everything we do. We are proud of our unique team ethos, enabling and supporting each other and going the extra mile together. At BUOYANCY AEROSPACE, we are committed to a purely merit-based environment where performance, capability, and integrity are all that matter. We do not hire based on race, skin colour, gender, religion, or any other personal characteristic protected by the law; we believe in rewarding talent, dedication, integrity, and results. To be considered for this role, please submit a complete application (motivational letter, CV, and all references) to join@buoyancy.space
