Printing Estimator & Administrator at ZaPOP

About the job

• The Print Estimator & Administrator is responsible for calculating and preparing accurate cost estimates for print production jobs. This role involves analyzing job specifications, obtaining pricing from vendors, assessing materials, and calculating labor and production costs to provide detailed and competitive quotes. The Print Estimator works closely with the Sales, Admin and Printing Teams to ensure projects are priced efficiently and within budget. This role also includes assisting the General Manager and Printing Coordinator with Administrative Tasks.

Key Performance Areas (Summary of Overall Responsibilities)

• Cost Estimation
• Cost and Waste Tracking & Reporting
• Administrative Tasks

Task responsibilities

Cost Estimation

• Review and analyze job specifications, including print type, quantity, materials, and turnaround time.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates based on job requirements, considering materials, labour, production time, and vendor pricing.
• Work with internal teams and suppliers to gather accurate pricing information for different components of the job (e.g., printing, finishing, shipping).
• Calculate production costs, including pre-press, press, finishing, and packaging.
• Assist with building various annual rate cards and uploading to QuickEasy.

Cost Tracking & Reporting

• Monitor and track project costs and margins to ensure profitability.
• Provide feedback and reporting to senior management on trends in costs and pricing.
• Assist in the creation of standard costing models for frequently produced jobs.
• Track waste and reprints accurately.

Administrative Tasks

• Maintain accurate records of all estimates, including project specifications, pricing, and vendor details.
• Update and maintain pricing databases, ensuring they reflect the latest cost changes and industry trends.
• Keep the database updated at all times including but not limited to: Customers, Suppliers, employees and materials.
• Assist with the coordination of printing projects related to new business development. 
• Assist with procurement for the printing team.
• Update the Trucks Print Tracker daily with the status updates from the team. 
• General filing – ensuring all print jobs, maintenance sheets etc. are accurately filed.
• Assist the General Manager and Printing Coordinator with adhoc administrative tasks as required.
•  Assist the General Manager in ensuring the Printing Team’s internal SOP's are kept updated at all times.

Requirements

• Familiarity with various print materials and substrates.
• Familiarity with different types of printing processes (Litho, digital, screen printing, etc.) and finishing techniques (binding, cutting, etc.).
• Matric/Grade 12 
• Diploma / Degree in Administration, Project Management or related field advantageous. 
• 3-5 years of experience in print estimating, production, or a related field.
• Experience working with print management software and estimating tools, such as QuickEasy.