Production Estimator

Estimation/Pricing Location: [Insert Location] Reports To: [Insert Reporting Line]

Job Description: The Estimator plays a pivotal role in providing accurate cost estimates and pricing strategies for folding carton manufacturing and custom structural packaging solutions. This individual collaborates with sales, design, and production teams to assess project requirements, analyze material costs, labor, and production timelines, and ensure competitive yet profitable pricing. The ideal candidate ensures precise calculations to support customer proposals and aids in optimizing the profitability of the company.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cost Analysis: Analyze project specifications to calculate costs of raw materials, labor, and production.
2. Quotations Preparation: Develop and submit cost estimates and pricing quotes to internal teams or customers.
3. Collaboration: Work closely with design and sales teams to align cost estimates with customer expectations and technical feasibility.
4. Database Maintenance: Maintain an up-to-date database of standard costs for materials, machinery usage, and labor rates.
5. Material Optimization: Collaborate with production teams to recommend efficient material usage and minimize waste.
6. Vendor Coordination: Communicate with suppliers to obtain material quotes and ensure competitive pricing.
7. Continuous Improvement: Analyze past projects to refine estimation accuracy and identify opportunities for cost-saving.
8. Market Trends: Stay informed about market trends in material costs and manufacturing processes.
9. Reporting: Prepare regular reports on estimation accuracy, bid success rates, and margin analysis.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 2-3 years of experience in cost estimation, preferably in the folding carton or packaging industry.
• Technical Skills:
• Proficient in estimation software and tools specific to the packaging industry.
• Strong knowledge of materials used in packaging (e.g., folding cartons, corrugated boards).
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and familiarity with ERP systems.
• Analytical Skills: Exceptional mathematical and analytical abilities with a keen eye for accuracy and detail.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Soft Skills: Detail-oriented, proactive, methodical, and capable of working under tight deadlines.
• Certifications: Professional certifications in cost estimation or supply chain management are a plus but not required.