Manufacturing Estimator (plastic injection molding)
Job Description
Description:
BASIC PURPOSE:
- Create detailed cost estimates for the creation of customer quotations for injection mold tooling, injection molded products, and value added assemblies.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Estimating & Quoting
o Prepare detailed cost estimates for injection molded parts, including:
Tooling (new molds, modifications, transfers)
Piece-part pricing
Secondary operations (assembly, pad printing, ultrasonic welding, etc.)
o Analyze customer RFQs, drawings, CAD models, and specifications
o Develop pricing based on material costs, cycle time, press size, labor, overhead, and margin targets
o Support quick-turn and formal quote requests
- Engineering & Technical Analysis
o Review part designs for manufacturability (DFM)
o Estimate mold complexity, cavitation, hot runner vs. cold runner, and tooling lead times
o Recommend process assumptions, material alternatives, and cost-reduction opportunities
o Collaborate with tooling vendors and internal mold design teams
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
o Work with sales to clarify customer requirements and pricing strategy
o Coordinate with manufacturing, tooling, and supply chain teams to validate assumptions
o Support customer technical discussions as needed
- Cost Management & Data Accuracy
o Maintain estimating models, cost databases, and historical pricing
o Track quote accuracy and provide post-launch cost feedback
o Assist with cost-down initiatives and re-quotes for production programs
Requirements:
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required
- 3+ years of experience in injection molding estimating, process engineering, or manufacturing engineering
- Strong understanding of injection molding processes, materials, and tooling
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and 3D CAD models
- Proficiency with Excel and estimating or ERP systems
- Strong analytical and communication skills
Preferred
- Experience estimating multi-cavity, hot runner, or high-volume production tools
- Familiarity with automotive, medical, consumer, or industrial molded products
- Experience working with domestic and offshore tooling suppliers
- Background in mold design, processing, or project management