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Cost Estimator

Cost Estimator

Kendrick PlasticsGrand Rapids, MI, US
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Job Description

Job Description

About Company :

About Kendrick Plastics

Kendrick Plastics is a Tier 1.5 automotive supplier — built to move fast, think smart, and deliver results. We sit at the sweet spot between large Tier 1s and traditional Tier 2s, giving customers the best of both worlds : full-service capabilities with small-company speed and attention. Our products are on some of the best-selling vehicles in North America, and our team brings decades of experience in engineering, manufacturing, and operations.

We’re built differently — faster, leaner, and designed to win. If you’re the kind of person who takes ownership, solves problems with urgency, and wants to see the impact of your work every day, you’ll thrive here. Kendrick is a place where people grow quickly, are trusted to lead, and work alongside others who care just as much as they do.

About the Role :

As a Cost Estimator in the automotive industry, you will play a critical role in analyzing and forecasting the costs associated with production projects to ensure profitability and competitive pricing. You will be responsible for gathering and interpreting data related to materials, labor, and overhead expenses to develop accurate cost estimates that support strategic decision-making. Your work will directly impact budgeting, project planning, and resource allocation, helping the company optimize operational efficiency and maintain financial health. Collaborating closely with engineering, procurement, and production teams, you will provide insights that influence product and manufacturing processes. Ultimately, your expertise will contribute to the company’s ability to deliver high-quality products on time and within budget, strengthening its market position.

Minimum Qualifications :

  • 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.

Preferred Qualifications :

  • Experience with ERP systems and project management software.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and cost reduction techniques.
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills to interact effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
  • Ability to interpret complex technical drawings and specifications.

    • Responsibilities :

  • Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
  • Consult with engineers, vendors, and managers to obtain information on labor requirements, raw materials, and production processes.
  • Develop detailed cost breakdowns and prepare comprehensive reports to support project bids and internal budgeting.
  • Monitor and update cost databases and historical data to improve the accuracy of future estimates.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend process improvements.
  • Review and validate supplier quotes to ensure alignment with project requirements and budgets.
  • Assist in the preparation of project schedules and resource allocation plans based on cost estimates.

    • Skills :

    The required skills enable the Cost Estimator to accurately analyze and interpret technical documents and data, ensuring precise cost calculations that inform project feasibility and budgeting. Proficiency in cost estimating software and Excel allows for efficient data management and the creation of detailed reports that support decision-making. Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for identifying cost drivers and potential savings, while strong communication skills facilitate collaboration with engineers, suppliers, and management. Preferred skills such as certification and knowledge of ERP systems enhance the estimator’s ability to integrate cost data with broader business processes and improve estimation accuracy. Together, these skills ensure the estimator can deliver reliable, actionable insights that drive cost-effective manufacturing operations.

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    Cost Estimator • Grand Rapids, MI, US