The Printing Cost Estimator is responsible for calculating the total costs of printing projects by analyzing job specifications and determining the required materials, labor, and production time. Key duties include preparing detailed cost proposals, coordinating with the production and sales teams to ensure pricing accuracy, handling client quotation requests, and maintaining up-to-date pricing databases.

Key Responsibilities:

• Evaluate customer specifications, artwork files, and job orders to determine printing requirements (e.g., size, color, paper type, finishing).
• Calculate production costs including materials, ink, plates, labor, machine time, subcontracted services, and wastage allowances.
• Prepare detailed and accurate price quotations for clients or internal departments.
• Coordinate with suppliers to obtain updated material prices and negotiate competitive rates.
• Recommend the most cost-efficient printing methods (offset, digital, large-format, etc.).
• Maintain a database of standard pricing, material usage, and production benchmarks.
• Liaise with Sales, Production, and Purchasing teams to ensure feasibility and profitability of quoted jobs.
• Review job performance post-production to compare estimated vs. actual costs and improve estimating accuracy.
• Assist in developing pricing strategies and cost control procedures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or vocational background in Printing Technology, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred but not required).
• At least 1-3 years of experience in print estimating or production planning in a printing press or packaging company.
• Strong knowledge of printing processes (offset, digital, flexo, large format, binding & finishing).
• Proficient in MS Excel or estimating software.
• Strong math and analytical skills; high attention to detail.
• Good communication and coordination skills.