Cost Estimator

Red Fox Group (Pty) Ltd; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 50 000; Full time

Job summary

A creative solutions provider based in South Africa seeks a Cost Estimator to join their team in Wes-Kaap. The successful candidate will develop accurate cost estimates, evaluate materials and labor requirements, and collaborate closely with designers and production teams. Candidates should have at least 3 years of relevant experience, strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, and proficiency in CAD and Excel. This role offers the opportunity to impact the company's efficiency and profitability in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining and fabrication processes.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Develop accurate cost estimates for products and projects.
• Evaluate materials, labor, and equipment costs.
• Collaborate with design and production teams for insights.

Skills

Professional communication skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Education

Diploma/Degree in Industrial Engineering or similar

Grade 12 / Matric

Tools

CAD systems (e.g., SolidWorks)

ERP/MRP systems

Excel

Job description

Company overview

Red Fox Group is a collective of three integrated but specialised divisions:

🟥 Red Fox Create

Our fabrication and industrial design studio for retail displays, brand environments, custom objects, kiosks, structures, bars and physical installations.

🟦 Red Fox Connect

Our brand identity, creative strategy, content and design division, shaping brand worlds and communication systems.

🟧 Red Fox Consult

Our commercial strategy and FMCG advisory division, focused on route-to-market, pricing, portfolio design, pack architecture and commercial clarity.

Each division works independently and collaboratively, depending on project needs.

Together, we bring strategy, creativity and commercial intelligence under one roof.

This role is an on-site position based at Red Fox Create's offices in Stikland Industria, Cape Town

Purpose of the role

• To develop accurate cost estimates for products, components, and projects within the manufacturing and design environment.
• The Cost Estimator evaluates materials, labour, equipment, and overhead costs to ensure profitability, competitiveness, and alignment with business objectives.
• This role supports design, sales, finance and production teams with cost insights to enable informed decision-making.

Qualifications and Experience

• Grade 12 / Matric (minimum requirement).
• Maths / Accounting as Grade 12 subjects (advantageous)
• Diploma/Degree in Industrial Engineering, Cost Management, Finance, or similar advantageous.
• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (CNC machining, sheet metal, casting, fabrication, etc.)
• Proficiency with CAD systems (e.g., SolidWorks) and ERP/MRP systems
• Advanced Excel and cost modelling proficiency
• Understanding of design-for-manufacture principles, production flows and materials
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
• Knowledge of materials (metals, plastics, composites, substrates etc.)

Key Personal Attributes & Other Requirements

• Professional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Commercial awareness.
• Attention to detail, accuracy and analytical thinking.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, adaptability – and organizational skill set.
• Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Internal customer satisfaction (Sales, Design, Production).
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure.
• Well-presented, neat, and professional.
• Reliable, punctual, and trustworthy.
• Demonstrates high ethical standards and integrity in handling sensitive information.

Key Role Outputs

Cost Estimation & Analysis

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for new product designs, prototypes, and production runs.
• Interpret and analyse engineering drawings(2D), 3D models, and technical specifications to determine cost drivers.
• Calculate material usage, fabrication times, and labour requirements.
• Evaluate tooling, machining, and assembly costs, including subcontracted operations
• Transferring information to creation of Bill of Material

Collaboration & Data Collection

• Work closely with designers, technical engineers, production teams, and procurement to gather accurate data.
• Liaise with suppliers for quotations on raw materials, components, and outsourced processes.
• Provide feedback to designers and technical engineers to improve cost-efficiency and manufacturability.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Track actual costs versus estimated costs post-production.
• Identify cost variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain an up-to-date cost database and price library for materials and labour.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for cost reduction and ensuring obsolete and slow-moving stock are utilised

Stakeholder Support

• Work closely with designer and technical engineers to identify cost implications of changes.
• Support sales with accurate and timely costs.
• Provide financial insight into feasibility studies and prototype development.

Reports & Master Data Management

• Prepare cost reports and variance analyses
• Maintain clear documentation and version control of Bill of Materials history.
• Update costing templates and tools for continuous improvement.
• Ensure master data is up to date and accurate
• Loading new products and items on master data
• Performing monthly maintenance of master data libraries

Salary

• Market related aligned to qualifications and experience.

About You

• You are methodical and analytical, who enjoys breaking down complex problems (What raw material does this product need? How many hours will it take to assemble?)
• Pragmatic and realistic, you are conscious that designs must not only look good or function well, but also be viable to produce at scale
• You thrive on belonging to a strong, diverse team with a shared vision and purpose. You’re ready to tackle any challenge with a positive attitude, and you understand how important the role of every single person is. You give the respect you believe you deserve, and your team knows they can count on you no matter how tough the going gets.
• You believe that what you do is part of who you are, and you do it with care and attention to detail. You’re here to make a positive impact and be a valued member of the greater team. If our culture and values resonate with you, and your skills and experience are an ideal match to this role, we’d love to hear from you.

Submit your CV, together with a strong motivational letter that ensures your CV gets seen! Please email: [e-mail]

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation.

• Red Fox Create is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.