Estimator

The Imagine Group; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid time off

401(k) with match

Tuition assistance

Job summary

The Imagine Group, located in Charlotte, NC, seeks an Estimator responsible for enhancing cost-efficiency in print jobs. This multifaceted role involves estimating job costs, vendor management, and supporting manufacturing operations.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma, estimating experience, and familiarity with ERP systems. We offer a competitive benefits package, including medical coverage and retirement plans. Join us in shaping innovative visual communications.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous estimating experience in printing preferred.
• Experience working with ERP systems is essential.

Responsibilities

• Estimate costs for jobs and coordinate outsourcing work.
• Conduct pricing and cost analytics.
• Provide consultation on project specifications.

Skills

Estimating offset printing jobs

Experience with ERP systems

Math skills

Knowledge of print processes

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in graphic communications or related field

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator and Acrobat)

MIS systems

Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW

At Imagine we go beyond print to help our clients deliver game‑changing visual communications from concept to delivery that set the standard for our industry. The first step in this process is hiring great employees! Our innovation teams are the most committed, highly experienced artisans in the business. We are committed to delivering high‑quality marketing solutions, in every environment and campaign, helping our clients capture the heart, minds, and loyalty of their customers. For more than 30 years, The Imagine Group has established itself as one of the most influential and innovative visual communications companies in the industry. Join us and let's Imagine a better way together.

Job Summary

The Estimator is a multi‑faceted position responsible primarily for estimating the direct cost of bid opportunities and live jobs; including but not limited to digital and screen print, prepress, finishing, bindery, and kitting. Position often coordinates outsourcing work, conducts pricing and cost analytics, and broadly supports administrative functions for operations/manufacturing.

Job Description

• Cost Estimating – draft plans for potential jobs and estimate direct cost, as well as estimating job costs after‑the‑fact based on specifications from Sales Reps and CSR’s. Uses ERP system to prepare estimates.
• Quantitative Analytics – spreadsheet manipulation, pricing analytics, geometry, algebra.
• Vendor Management – gathering and comparing quotes, placing purchase orders after verifying competitive pricing. Develops knowledge of materials used, the best suppliers and competitive prices.
• Research and Development – vendors, solutions, equipment, and drafting documentation.
• Purchasing – both act as a purchasing agent as well as supporting various administrative functions of the Purchasing department.
• Instruction – must be capable of providing guidance and education on an array of manufacturing‑related subjects. Advises and guides customers, when necessary, as to specifications of a job (size or style of type, size of book, kind of binding, etc.)
• Project Planning – will verify timelines & material availability and compare against press schedules to ensure the actual ability to fulfill an estimated job. Determines the production centers needed to produce the job as specified. Develops a plan to accommodate all facets of the job. Evaluates all methods available for producing the job and selects the plan which produces the job in the most economical way.
• Insourcing/Outsourcing – will coordinate bids to outside vendors or other intercompany facilities for work which has been deemed not feasible to produce in‑house.
• Consultation – may provide input and direction on various aspects of a given project; including substrates, print process, specific press, finishing methods, packaging methods, etc.
• Uses a MIS to prepare estimates and MRP system to assist with administrative Purchasing & Inventory functions.
• Performs other duties as requested.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications of Position

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience estimating offset, wide format and/or dye sublimation printing jobs.
• Experience working with ERP systems.

Preferred Qualifications of Position

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic communications, Accounting, or relevant quantitative or manufacturing‑oriented field.
• Basic ability with Adobe Creative Suite (primarily Illustrator and Acrobat for this position).
• Some experience with computer programming may be useful, specifically JavaScript experience.
• Some experience with accounting and a minimal understanding of GAAP.
• General understanding of warehousing & logistics industry practices.
• Some experience managing projects or leading a team.

Knowledge and Skills

• Must have a working knowledge of offset and wide format printing processes.
• Ability to read and understand oral/written instructions.
• Math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers and fractions.
• Works independently, coordinates well with a cohesive team.
• Flexible, self‑managed and able to effectively prioritize and juggle multiple projects, multiple details and tight deadlines, often with competing demands.
• Ability to learn & retain knowledge of substrates, print processes, issues that affect quality, color, and imaging.
• Ability to communicate complex and/or technical topics in understandable “layperson’s terms.”

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Occasional walking.
• Manual dexterity for repetitive work.
• Frequent Sitting for prolonged periods of time.

PAY STATEMENT

The national pay range for this role is listed above. The pay range may be slightly lower or higher based on the geographic location. The actual pay offered may vary based upon, but not limited to: education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift and location. In addition to base salary, depending on the role, the total compensation package may also include participation in a bonus, commission or incentive program. Imagine offers benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus tuition assistance, caregiver leave, adoption assistance, and employer/partner discounts.

EEO Statement

The Imagine Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.