Cost Estimator

SplashOut has an exciting opportunity available for a Cost Estimator to be based in Umhlanga, Durban. The successful incumbent will be responsible for analyzing a request and preparing a quotation, taking into account time, labor, materials etc. Provide the customer with adequate information within the quote or proposal to make an informed decision and put forward alternatives or suggestions that meet the customer requirements.

Minimum requirements:

- Valid Driver’s License
- 5 years' experience working within a signage environment.
- 3 years' experience of job costing analysis.
- Printing Software Knowledge
- Fabrication knowledge within signage/engineering or similar environment
- Knowledge of installation within a signage/engineering environment.
- Knowledge of material usage and management within a signage, engineering or similar environment

**Responsibilities**:
**Operational Function**
- Review and analyze complex requests received by customers to prepare and provide a quotation, taking into account materials, labor cost, time etc.
- Provide suitable alternatives or suggestions to the customer based on the request with comprehensive information being supplied for the customer to make an informed decision. Look at multiple ways to execute a job and provide quotations to the customer.
- Evaluate all methods available for producing a job and provide quotes based on the most economical method.
- Liaise closely with the Production Team Leader on production capabilities and optimal production processes to meet the customer deadlines.
- Provide quote revisions based on any changes.
- Perform job cost analysis to ensure the pricing offered is competitive and in line with the business standards.
- Develop a thorough understanding of the materials used and look for additional / better suppliers to propose to management for better quality or better pricing.
- Work closely with the sales team to ensure turnaround times on quotes are met.
- Act as a client liaison where required.
- Ensure that all administration and updating of internal record keeping such as generation of quote numbers is in order. All paperwork and relevant supporting documentation to be saved in accordance with easy to understand naming conventions and accessible.
- Assist with internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist with internal job cards where necessary.
- Assist with any other ad-hoc functions as required by management.
- Create costing models for various functions / departments.
- Advise and provide direction and support to employees trying to determine specifications on a project
- Able to manage a team.
- Able to understand and anticipate market trends and be abreast of industry related matters.
- Work to minimize Colour Innovations exposure to risk on projects.

**People**
- Able to build and maintain effective and productive relationships with team members, stakeholders, and suppliers.
- Good communication, negotiation, interpersonal and influential skills.
- Analytical, numerically astute with strong demonstrated problem-solving abilities.
- Able to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks and achieve set targets.
- Commercial and financial awareness with a full understanding of how failure impacts the production and customer order fulfilment.
- Able to work well under pressure and handle emergency and stressful situations.
- Keen attention to detail and accuracy.

**Compliance, risk and quality**
- Creating, maintaining and enforcing company policies and procedures.
- Compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Ensure final version and other documents are chronologically saved / backed up.

**Growth and new markets/products**
- Customer and supplier relationship management.
- Assist with company projects or lead company projects if specific to stock control.
- Automation and management of the ordering process using Pastel/HIS/Website.

Skills and competencies:

- Accountability and take corrective action.
- Team player and ability to always show initiative.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail and must be results driven.
- Exceptional Time Management skills.

Please note that only team members who meet the stipulated minimum requirements will be considered.