Injection Molding Estimator

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze RFQs, part files, prints, and customer requirements.
• Estimate complete part cost: material, cycle time, labor, machine time, overhead, and secondary ops.
• Quote mold/tooling costs using internal templates and inputs from tooling team.
• Identify and model different pricing strategies: full tool cost, subsidized tooling, or tooling at cost.
• Collaborate with Sales and Engineering to create compelling proposals and timelines.
• Track historical data and build cost models that improve over time.
• Assist in evaluating "free tool" models based on volume and piece price tradeoffs.
• Collaborate with the software team to help automate cost modeling and quoting workflows.
• Support profitability analysis and pricing revisions as part of commercial negotiations.
• Cost Analysis: Review part drawings (CAD/blueprints) to determine complexity and estimate mold tooling, material, and manufacturing costs.
• Quote Generation: Calculate total per-part costs based on material, machine time, labor, and overhead.
• Technical Evaluation: Determine appropriate machine tonnage, cavitation, and cycle times for production.
• Customer Communication: Liaise with customers regarding project specifications, material options, and potential cost-saving design modifications.
• Software Utilization: Use ERP systems or quoting software to generate, track, and update quotes for new and existing projects.
• Market Research: Maintain knowledge of current material prices and manufacturing labor rates to ensure competitive, accurate pricing.
• Governmental and regulatory requirements, USMCA certs, material certs, SDS data.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of cost estimating experience in injection molding, tool & die, or manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Cost Estimator or in a similar role within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and labor cost structures.
• Proficiency in cost estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of Automotive manufacturing cost structures: material, machine rates, overhead, labor.
• Familiar with part costing software (e.g., Excel models, aPriori, ProEst, or similar tools).
• Able to read 2D prints and interpret 3D CAD models.
• Excellent Excel/Sheets skills; experience with quoting databases and CRM tools a plus.
• Experience pricing in automotive, consumer goods, or medical molding industries.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of plastic materials, injection molding processes, and mold design.
• Software Proficiency: Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks/AutoCAD) and ERP/quoting tools.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret engineering blueprints and specifications.
• Experience: Previous experience in a molding technician, engineering, or purchasing role.
• Bonus: Exposure to mold design, tooling build, or engineering change quoting.
• Bonus: Experience with ERP systems and project management software.