Estimating Manager

Direct Edge Media, Inc. • Anaheim, CA

7h

About The Position

Direct Edge Media is a fast-paced and growing printing company specializing in digital, offset, large format, grand format, fulfillment, direct mail, promotional products, and custom manufacturing solutions. Our team is focused on delivering exceptional client experiences while continuously improving operational efficiency and profitability. We value collaboration, innovation, accountability, and a commitment to finding smarter ways to work.

The Estimating Manager is responsible for maximizing company profitability by identifying and implementing cost-saving opportunities throughout the production lifecycle. Unlike a traditional estimator whose responsibilities primarily end after a quote is approved, this role remains actively involved after a project enters production to ensure jobs are executed in the most efficient, cost-effective, and profitable manner possible.

This position serves as a strategic resource between Account Management, Production, Purchasing, Vendors, and Leadership. The Estimating Manager analyzes production methods, sourcing strategies, labor utilization, material selection, vendor relationships, and workflow processes to reduce costs, improve margins, and increase operational efficiency across the organization.

The ideal candidate combines estimating expertise, production knowledge, purchasing experience, and strong analytical skills to drive measurable financial results.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum 10 years of experience in estimating, purchasing, sourcing, production planning, or print manufacturing
• Strong understanding of digital, offset, large format, fabrication, fulfillment, and specialty production methods
• Demonstrated history of achieving measurable cost savings and profitability improvements
• Strong analytical and financial decision-making abilities
• Experience negotiating with vendors and managing supplier relationships
• Ability to evaluate production processes and identify efficiency opportunities
• Strong understanding of manufacturing costs and production workflows
• Advanced estimating and pricing knowledge
• Strategic sourcing and vendor negotiation expertise
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Strong financial acumen and profitability analysis capabilities
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive operational improvements
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and reporting capabilities
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on measurable cost savings and continuous improvement

Nice To Haves

• Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Operations, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, or related field
• Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement experience
• Previous leadership or senior estimating experience

Responsibilities

• Review awarded projects prior to and during production to identify cost-saving opportunities
• Analyze labor, materials, freight, finishing, fulfillment, and production methods to maximize profitability
• Identify opportunities to improve gross margins without sacrificing quality or client expectations
• Conduct post-project reviews to identify lessons learned and profitability improvement opportunities
• Monitor estimate-to-actual variances and recommend corrective actions
• Track and report documented cost savings generated through sourcing, planning, and operational improvements
• Develop and maintain relationships with domestic and international suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers
• Continuously evaluate vendor pricing, quality, lead times, and capabilities
• Negotiate improved pricing, payment terms, freight rates, and service agreements
• Implement competitive bidding strategies and sourcing programs to improve purchasing performance
• Build and maintain a vendor scorecard system to monitor supplier effectiveness
• Identify alternative suppliers and manufacturing methods that reduce overall production costs
• Collaborate with Production Managers and Department Leaders to determine the most efficient manufacturing strategy for each project
• Recommend process improvements that reduce labor hours, setup time, material waste, and production bottlenecks
• Evaluate in-house versus outsourced production opportunities
• Assist with production planning and resource allocation for complex projects
• Support implementation of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
• Identify opportunities for standardization across materials, vendors, and workflows
• Serve as a senior estimating resource for complex or high-value projects
• Assist Account Managers and Sales Representatives with production strategy and manufacturing recommendations
• Recommend alternative production methods that improve competitiveness while protecting margins
• Assist with training team members on cost-conscious decision making and profitability management
• Work closely with Account Management, Production, Purchasing, Scheduling, and Leadership teams
• Participate in operational planning meetings and profitability reviews
• Support strategic business initiatives focused on growth, scalability, and profitability
• Provide recommendations to leadership regarding operational improvements and cost reduction opportunities

Benefits

• Additional bonus opportunities may be available based on documented annual cost savings, profitability improvements, and achievement of departmental objectives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED