Estimating and Purchasing Manager

Körber Group•Winslow Township, NJ

5d•$115,000 - $130,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role is in-person at our manufacturing plant in Camden, NJ. The Print and Packaging Estimating & Purchasing Manager is responsible for overseeing all estimating and purchasing functions to ensure accurate job costing, competitive pricing, and strategic procurement of materials and services. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of printing processes, pharmaceutical secondary packaging materials, finishing operations, and supply chain management. This position serves as a key liaison between Sales, Production, Customer Service, Suppliers, and Management to maximize profitability while maintaining quality and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

A minimum of 5 years of experience in print estimating, purchasing, procurement, or a related packaging manufacturing environment
Pharmaceutical secondary packaging experience is required, including Folding Cartons, Package Inserts/Leaflets, and Pressure Sensitive Labels
Demonstrated experience sourcing and purchasing printing materials and packaging components
Strong understanding of printing processes, materials, finishing operations, and production workflows
Working knowledge of paperboard, paper grades, inks, coatings, adhesives, and packaging substrates
Solid understanding of printing equipment, production capabilities, run speeds, and the most efficient manufacturing methods
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other business software applications
Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines while managing projects of varying size and complexity
Team player with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, exceptional attention to detail, excellent organizational abilities, and effective communication skills

Nice To Haves

Experience with PACE, EFI Radius, EFI Pace, or other EFI MIS/ERP systems
Experience negotiating supplier agreements and managing vendor relationships
Printed marketing collateral experience
Prior supervisory or management experience in estimating, purchasing, or packaging operations

Responsibilities

Lead and support the estimating team in reviewing, analyzing, and interpreting job specifications provided by Sales, Customer Service, or clients to determine production requirements and accurate manufacturing costs
Determine the most economical and efficient manufacturing methods while meeting customer specifications and quality standards
Oversee the preparation, review, and maintenance of competitive quotations and proposals that support business growth and profitability
Maintain estimating databases, costing models, pricing structures, and estimating standards to ensure accuracy and consistency
Collaborate with Sales and Operations teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and value-added solutions for customers
Analyze historical job data, production performance, and material usage to improve estimating accuracy and operational efficiency
Source, negotiate, and procure paperboard, paper, labels, inks, coatings, and packaging materials required for production
Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, converters, and subcontractors while evaluating performance related to quality, service, delivery, and pricing
Negotiate pricing, terms, lead times, and service agreements to ensure cost-effective purchasing practices while maintaining quality requirements
Obtain and evaluate competitive vendor quotations and make purchasing recommendations that support business objectives
Identify alternative suppliers and materials to reduce supply chain risk and support business continuity
Work closely with Production, Planning, and Quality teams to resolve material shortages, supplier concerns, and delivery issues
Serve as the primary point of contact for estimating and purchasing activities across the organization
Support strategic initiatives focused on cost reduction, margin improvement, supplier consolidation, and operational efficiency
Provide guidance and mentorship to estimating and purchasing team members while supporting department growth
Participate in customer meetings, supplier reviews, and internal planning discussions as needed