Cost Engineer/Senior Cost Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Cost Engineer/Analyst for North America to join our global cost engineering organization. This critical role supports global purchasing, sales, and finance teams by developing cost models for automotive components across multiple commodities—including plastics, metals, tubes, and electrical components—using activity-based cost accounting principles. The cost engineer will assist purchasing in sourcing negotiations based on factual data, requiring limited supervision and a thorough knowledge of activity-based clean sheet costing in the automotive industry. Experience in cost engineering at automotive OEMs or TIER 1 suppliers is a significant plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop cost models for automotive components utilizing activity-based cost accounting principles.
• Support purchasing teams in sourcing negotiations with data-driven insights.
• Analyze production steps and costs in supplier manufacturing facilities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including purchasing, engineering, finance, and sales.
• Explain gaps between should-costs and supplier pricing using factual data.
• Apply independent judgment, initiative, and creativity to manage multiple projects.
• Solve problems and think analytically to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Communicate effectively with a global team through presentations and interpersonal interactions.

Requirements

• 0-5 years of experience in cost modeling, cost engineering, and/or purchasing, with a working knowledge of activity-based costing principles.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (required).
• Understanding of activity-based costing principles in manufacturing.
• Knowledge of automotive manufacturing processes such as stamping, injection molding, wiring, extrusions, and clips.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and time management skills.
• Action-oriented with a focus on producing results.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• BA/BS in Engineering (preferred).
• MBA or Master’s degree in an engineering field (preferred).
• Experience in cost engineering at automotive OEMs or TIER 1 suppliers.