Cost Analyst

About the role

We are looking for a detail-oriented Cost Analyst to support cost evaluation and pricing strategy for manufacturing programs in Sparta, Wisconsin. In this role, you will assess product, material, tooling, and process costs to help guide commercial decisions and strengthen quotation accuracy. You will collaborate across engineering, procurement, and supplier partners to build reliable cost models and identify practical opportunities for cost improvement.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate product, material, tooling, and production expenses using technical drawings, engineering inputs, and manufacturing data.
• Prepare cost estimates and business case assessments that support sales planning and quoting activities.
• Build, maintain, and refine cost models and related databases to improve consistency and forecasting accuracy.
• Partner with regional teams on benchmarking efforts and contribute to standardized methods for cost analysis.
• Review supplier quotations in detail to understand pricing drivers, cost structure, and areas for negotiation.
• Work closely with engineering and procurement during new business bids to define realistic target costs and support pricing decisions.
• Develop productive supplier relationships to identify cost-effective manufacturing approaches and emerging technologies.
• Analyze cost trends and key influencing factors to recommend actions that improve competitiveness and financial performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in automotive engineering or manufacturing operations.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in cost analysis, estimating, or a closely related function.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret technical and financial information.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and working knowledge of Power BI or similar reporting tools.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and collaborate with cross-functional teams.