Manufacturing Estimator

Estimator (Packaging / Print Manufacturing)
Location: Niles, IL (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (flexibility for overtime as needed)
About the Opportunity
We are seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to join a growing, fast-paced manufacturing environment specializing in high-end packaging and print solutions. This role plays a critical part in supporting sales and production by delivering accurate, timely cost estimates across a wide range of custom projects-from folding cartons and rigid boxes to luxury packaging and specialty print materials.
If you thrive under pressure, enjoy working cross-functionally, and have a strong technical foundation in estimating within print or packaging, this is a high-impact opportunity with strong growth potential.
Key Responsibilities

Review quote requests from Sales and Customer Service teams
Analyze project specifications, drawings, and production requirements
Determine whether jobs will be produced in-house or outsourced
Develop detailed cost estimates including:
Materials (paper, substrates, finishes)
Labor and production costs
Outside vendor pricing

Build layouts using CAD tools (ArtiosCAD or similar preferred)
Prepare and finalize estimates within estimating/ERP systems
Submit estimates for review based on complexity and scope
Communicate pricing and timelines back to the sales team
Maintain and update cost databases and pricing models
Collaborate daily with Sales (including morning status meetings) to align on priorities and timelines
Project Scope

Folding cartons, rigid boxes, trading cards, and luxury packaging
Financial and specialty print materials
Mix of high-volume, quick-turn projects and complex custom builds
Simple projects: ~1-day turnaround
Complex projects: 3-4 days

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Graphic Arts, Design, or related field (or equivalent experience - typically 8-10 years in lieu of degree)
• 3-5+ years of estimating experience in printing or packaging manufacturing
• Strong understanding of paper materials and how they react to environmental factors (e.g., humidity)
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Experience with estimating software or ERP systems (any platform)
• Ability to analyze material, labor, and production costs with high accuracy
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with ArtiosCAD (Esko) or similar CAD tools
Background in folding cartons, rigid boxes, or specialty packaging
Vendor management or pricing negotiation experience
Exposure to ERP systems and cost modeling tools
What We're Looking For

Highly detail-oriented with a strong sense of ownership
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Strong communicator who can manage expectations across teams
Able to balance speed and accuracy under pressure
Proactive, adaptable, and eager to learn
Why Join Us

• Stable, growing organization with year-over-year expansion
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment with strong cross-functional exposure
• Opportunity to work on diverse and complex packaging projects
• Clear path for growth within estimating or operations
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits:
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company support
• Wellness programs

Compensation
$60,000 - $90,000 base salary
(flexibility up to ~$105K for highly experienced candidates)
Additional Details

Fully onsite role in Niles, IL
Fast-paced environment with high workload and tight turnaround times
Must be able to start within a short timeframe