Print Estimator

Veterans Print; Woodridge (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Veterans Print in Woodridge, IL is seeking a Print Estimator to prepare accurate cost estimates for large-format offset and digital printing, packaging, and fulfillment projects. You will collaborate with sales, customer service, production, and purchasing to develop practical production plans and competitive quotes that protect margins.

The role requires strong math, attention to detail, and experience with estimating software and Excel.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of offset and digital printing processes.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and packaging needs.
• Proficient with estimating software and Excel; EFI ePace a plus.
• Strong math, accuracy, and cost analysis.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines.
• Clear communication with sales, customer service, production and purchasing.
• Education in print management or related field is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Review quotes, artwork, layouts, quantities, substrates and finishing requirements.
• Identify missing information and clarify project details before estimating.
• Determine production methods, sheet sizes, layouts and yields.
• Calculate material, labor, setup, spoilage, outside services, packaging and freight costs.
• Obtain current pricing for substrates and outside services.
• Prepare detailed estimates using pricing and margin guidelines.
• Coordinate with production/scheduling on capacity and turnaround.
• Suggest alternative materials or methods to improve cost or delivery.
• Revise estimates with changed specs and note additional charges.
• Provide clear estimating details and production assumptions for orders.
• Keep organized records of quotes, revisions and pricing.

Skills

Offset printing

Digital printing

Substrates & inks

Coatings & finishing

Estimating software

Excel

EFI ePace

Math skills

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Communication

Collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Printer MIS software

Job description

Location: Woodridge, IL | Full-time, on-site

About Veterans Print

Veterans Print is a full-service printing and packaging company specializing in large-format offset and digital printing, retail displays, finishing, kitting, and fulfillment. Our capabilities include 56-inch and 81-inch UV offset presses, large-format digital printing, precision cutting, mounting, and comprehensive finishing services.

We serve brands, agencies, packaging companies, corrugated converters, and print management firms that depend on reliable production capacity, fast turnaround, and consistent quality. With printing, finishing, and fulfillment under one roof, we help customers manage complex print programs from production through delivery.

Position Overview

The Print Estimator prepares accurate, timely estimates for large-format offset and digital printing, packaging, POP displays, finishing, kitting, and fulfillment projects. This position works closely with sales, customer service, production, and purchasing to develop practical production plans and competitive quotes that support company profitability and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Review quote requests, artwork, layouts, quantities, substrates, finishing requirements, packouts, and delivery specifications.
• Identify missing information and clarify project requirements with sales and customer service before completing estimates.
• Determine efficient production methods, sheet sizes, layouts, material yields, and equipment selections.
• Calculate material, labor, setup, spoilage, outside service, packaging, and freight costs.
• Obtain current pricing and availability for substrates, purchased materials, and outside services.
• Prepare detailed estimates and quotes using company pricing and margin guidelines.
• Coordinate with production and scheduling to confirm equipment capabilities, capacity, and turnaround requirements.
• Recommend alternative materials or production methods that improve cost, efficiency, or delivery while meeting quality requirements.
• Revise estimates when specifications change and identify additional charges for alterations or added services.
• Provide clear estimating details and production assumptions when quoted work becomes an order.
• Compare estimated costs with actual job performance and recommend updates to estimating standards.
• Maintain organized records of quotes, revisions, vendor pricing, and customer specifications.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of offset and digital printing, substrates, inks, coatings, cutting, mounting, and finishing processes.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, layouts, dimensions, and packaging requirements.
• Proficiency with estimating or print MIS software and Microsoft Excel; EFI ePace experience is a plus.
• Strong math skills, attention to detail, and commitment to accurate costing.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates, prioritize deadlines, and adapt to changing requirements.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to collaborate with sales, customer service, production, and purchasing.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; education in print management, graphic communications, business, or a related field is a plus.
• Ability to work full-time, on-site in Woodridge, Illinois.