Estimator in Printing and Packaging Industry Job Cape Town area,South Africa,Engineering

Mid–Senior Estimator Purpose of the role

To deliver accurate, competitive, and profitable cost estimates for folding carton products by translating customer specifications into detailed costings, while supporting sales, production, and operational efficiency.

Key roles and responsibilities

1. Cost estimation and quoting

Prepare detailed cost estimates for folding carton jobs, including:

Board and substrate costs
Printing (litho, inks, coatings, varnishes)
Die‑cutting, stripping, blanking
Gluing, windowing, special finishes
Packaging, palletising, and logistics

Calculate machine run rates, make‑ready times, waste allowances, and labour costs.
Ensure estimates align with target margins and company profitability guidelines.
Review historical job data to refine costing accuracy.

2. Technical interpretation and job analysis

Interpret customer briefs, artworks, CAD designs, and specifications accurately.
Validate carton structure, size, board grade, flute/solid board selection, and finishing feasibility.
Identify potential production risks or inefficiencies and propose cost‑effective alternatives.
Recommend value engineering solutions to reduce cost without compromising quality or performance.

3. Collaboration and cross‑functional support

Work closely with Sales, Planning, Production, Procurement, and Design teams.
Provide technical and costing support during customer negotiations and tenders.
Participate in handover meetings to ensure smooth transition from estimate to production.
Support planners with capacity and feasibility insights where required.

4. Supplier and Material Cost Management

Liaise with suppliers to obtain accurate and up‑to‑date material pricing.
Monitor board, ink, and consumable cost fluctuations and adjust pricing models accordingly.
Maintain and update cost databases, price lists, and standard costing models.

5. Risk Management and Governance

Identify and flag commercial, technical, and operational risks in quotations.
Ensure compliance with company pricing policies, approval levels, and internal controls.
Assist in post‑job costing reviews to identify variances and improvement opportunities.

6. Continuous Improvement and Knowledge Sharing

Contribute to the development and refinement of estimating tools, templates, and systems.
Stay informed on new materials, technologies, and industry best practices.
Mentor junior estimators or provide guidance where required.
Support initiatives aimed at improving estimating accuracy, turnaround time, and competitiveness.

7. Reporting and Administration

Maintain accurate records of estimates, revisions, and approvals.
Provide management with insights on pricing trends, margin performance, and hit rates.
Support audits and internal reviews related to costing and pricing.

Requirements

Key Competencies and Attributes (Typical for 5–10 Years Experience)

Strong understanding of folding carton manufacturing processes
High level of numerical accuracy and attention to detail
Commercially astute with a profit‑focused mindset
Strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Proficient in estimating software, ERP systems, and Excel

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