Project Estimator

As the Estimator, you'll develop accurate project and program cost estimates for outsourced retail displays, fixtures, and related components. You'll work closely with Sales, Design, Project Management, Production, and external suppliers to define requirements, develop RFQs, evaluate supplier pricing, and build cost-effective sourcing solutions. You'll serve as a key resource on materials, manufacturing processes, supplier capabilities, and cost optimization across a variety of projects.

Responsibilities

Develop conceptual and detailed estimates for retail displays, fixtures, and related components; Build complete project costs including materials, manufacturing, tooling, packaging, logistics, overhead, labor, supplier costs, and margins; Maintain historical cost data and estimating tools to improve accuracy and efficiency; Identify cost drivers, risks, and opportunities for cost optimization; Develop RFQs and solicit quotations from qualified domestic and international suppliers; Evaluate supplier quotes for cost, quality, capability, capacity, and schedule; Negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, and other commercial requirements; Recommend sourcing strategies and supplier selections based on overall project value; Identify and qualify new suppliers to expand DCI's domestic and international supply chain; Support supplier development focused on quality, capacity, innovation, and risk mitigation; Partner with Sales, Design, Project Management, and Production to define project specifications and manufacturing requirements; Provide guidance on materials, manufacturing processes, supplier capabilities, and cost-effective design alternatives; Establish production requirements and quality expectations with suppliers; Communicate project costs, risks, timing considerations, and sourcing recommendations to internal stakeholders; Support Production and other teams as needed through project execution; Monitor material costs, tariffs, freight, market conditions, and global events that may impact project pricing; Evaluate supplier capabilities, technology, capacity, and business stability; Travel periodically to supplier locations as needed

Requirements

5+ years of experience in estimating, sourcing, purchasing, manufacturing, project management, or supply chain; Experience obtaining, analyzing, and negotiating supplier quotations; Experience working with contract manufacturers and external suppliers; Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications; Strong analytical, negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills; Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and ERP systems; Strong written and verbal communication skills; Ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment

Nice to have

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field; Experience with retail displays, POP displays, store fixtures, millwork, metal fabrication, plastics, graphics, or related industries; Experience sourcing from overseas suppliers; Knowledge of wood, metal, plastics, graphics, finishing, assembly, and other manufacturing processes; Experience with SolidWorks or interpreting CAD drawings; Experience qualifying and developing new suppliers