Quotation Specialist (Manufacturing)

At Schaefer Plastics, we manufacture industry-leading solutions and drive responsible practices towards a sustainable future for generations to come. As a family-owned company since 1937, we are deeply committed to delivering exceptional customer care through high-quality, innovative waste and packaging solutions. Our customers and their satisfaction are paramount to our business; we strive to understand their needs and exceed their expectations at every turn. We are a global injection molding manufacturer, producing durable waste and recycling carts, and pioneering reusable packaging systems that reduce carbon footprints. Our dynamic and inclusive culture fosters personal and professional growth, making us an ideal employer for career advancement.

Position Overview

The Cost Estimator – Internal Dunnage & Packaging is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for internal dunnage and packaging components used within customer shipments. This role works closely with the design team, fabrication team, customer service, and external vendors to translate drawings and specifications into accurate, timely quotes. The position is highly detail-oriented and data-driven, with strong emphasis on Excel-based costing and cross-functional collaboration.

This role is ideal for someone with a background in packaging, engineering, construction estimating, or material costing who enjoys structured work, attention to detail, and close collaboration with both technical and operational teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare cost estimates for internal dunnage solutions, including foam, corrugated, plastic sets, and thermoformed trays.
• Translate design drawings and specifications into detailed cost calculations using Excel-based costing tools.
• Enter and maintain pricing data accurately within internal costing spreadsheets and systems.
• Work closely with the design team to ensure estimates reflect current designs and manufacturing processes.
• Coordinate with external vendors to obtain pricing for custom materials and components.
• Collaborate with customer service to support the release of POs and final customer pricing.
• Track and manage quote requests and workflow using Trello and email.
• Engage with fabrication and shop-floor teams to understand processes and validate costing assumptions.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities, including potential exposure to design or CAD-related tasks.
• Support continuous improvement of costing tools and processes as needed. 

Required Qualifications 

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office (intermediate to slightly above intermediate level; pivot tables preferred, macros not required).
• Comfort with detailed data entry, calculations, and cost analysis.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work onsite and collaborate closely with design and operations teams.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to work cross-functionally. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Packaging Science, Engineering, or a related technical field OR equivalent hands-on experience.
• Experience in cost estimating, quoting, or material costing (manufacturing, packaging, or construction preferred).
• Familiarity with bills of materials (BOMs) and material takeoffs.
• Basic familiarity or comfort with CAD software (training available; not required). 
• Experience working with vendors and suppliers on pricing.
• Prior experience using task-management tools such as Trello (not required; easily trained). 

Experience Guidelines

• Entry-level candidates: Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Science, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Experienced candidates: 2–5 years of relevant experience in estimating, costing, construction estimating, or manufacturing support roles.
• A strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and hands-on problem-solving approach are valued over rigid experience requirements.

Why This Role Matters

This position plays a critical role in ensuring accurate pricing, smooth customer releases, and strong collaboration between design, manufacturing, and customer-facing teams. It is a stable, onsite role with clear structure, growth potential, and exposure to both technical and operational aspects of packaging and manufacturing.

Salary : $55,000 - $60,000