Print Estimator: Costing & Production Optimization

Digital Color Concepts; Mountainside (NJ); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Digital Color Concepts is seeking an experienced Estimator to develop accurate, timely cost estimates for wide-format, digital and offset print projects. You will evaluate specifications, materials, labor and vendor inputs to support profitable growth and exceptional customer experience.

You will collaborate with Sales, Production, Purchasing and Scheduling to ensure estimates reflect plant capacity and production realities, while continuously improving pricing processes and standardization

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of estimating experience in commercial printing, packaging or wide-format production facility.
• Strong understanding of wide-format equipment, finishing processes and substrates, offset lithography, digital printing.
• Proficiency with estimating software, MIS systems (CAI/PACE) and Excel-based cost models.
• Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret technical specifications and translate them into accurate cost structures.

Responsibilities

• Analyze job specifications to determine the most efficient production method across wide-format, digital and offset platforms.
• Build detailed cost estimates including materials, substrates, inks, coatings, finishing, labor, machine time, outside services and freight.
• Apply company pricing strategies, margin targets, and cost-to-serve considerations to all estimates.
• Maintain and refine estimating templates, calculators and rate tables to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Evaluate alternative production paths to optimize cost, turnaround and manufacturability.
• Collaborate with Production, Sales, Purchasing and Scheduling to align estimates with capacity and customer proposals.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to pricing, workflow efficiency and production standardization.

Skills

Estimating experience

Analytical skills

Cost modeling

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Communication

Tools

CAI/PACE

Excel

Job description

Digital Color Concepts is seeking an experienced Estimator to develop accurate, timely cost estimates for wide-format, digital and offset print projects. You will evaluate specifications, materials, labor and vendor inputs to support profitable growth and exceptional customer experience.

You will collaborate with Sales, Production, Purchasing and Scheduling to ensure estimates reflect plant capacity and production realities, while continuously improving pricing processes and standardization