Print Estimator

Top Job

Located in Saint Paul, MN

Salary: $60-65k

Job Title: Print Estimator

Salary: $60,000 – $65,000 per year

Shift: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday – Friday)

 

 

Position Summary

 

We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Print Estimator to join our production team. In this role, you will be responsible for analyzing client requests and project specifications to calculate the accurate costs of labor, materials, and machine time required for commercial printing jobs. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of printing processes (offset, digital, and finishing) and plays a critical role in ensuring our quotes are competitive for the client and profitable for the company.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Cost Calculation: Accurately estimate the costs of raw materials (paper, ink, plates), labor, machine time, and shipping for various print projects.
• Specification Review: Analyze Request for Quotes (RFQs), blueprints, and client specifications to determine the most efficient and cost-effective production methods.
• Vendor Coordination: Source and price out outsourced services, such as specialized binding, die-cutting, foil stamping, or special mailings.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with the sales team, customer service, and production managers to ensure estimates align with machine capabilities and production schedules.
• Quote Generation: Prepare and submit clear, detailed, and timely proposals to the sales team or directly to clients.
• Data Management: Maintain and update pricing matrices, material costs, and vendor rate cards within the company’s Management Information System (MIS) or estimating software.
• Job Tracking: Review completed jobs against original estimates to analyze profitability and identify areas for process improvement.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in print estimating, production planning, or a similar role within a commercial printing environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of offset, digital, and wide-format printing processes, as well as pre-press and post-press finishing techniques (e.g., folding, binding, laminating).
• Software Proficiency: Experience utilizing print estimating and MIS software (such as EFI Pace, PrintSmith, or similar programs), along with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Mathematical Aptitude: Exceptional mathematical and analytical skills with the ability to calculate complex spatial layouts, paper yields, and waste percentages.
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and meticulous attention to detail when reviewing project scopes.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams and external vendors.

Preferred Skills (Optional but a Plus)

• Degree in Graphic Communications, Print Management, Business, or a related field.
• Experience with direct mail estimating and postal regulations.

 

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