Cost Engineering Manager

Location: Farmington Hills, MI • Hybrid schedule (4 days in office) • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred • No sponsorship available

About the role

The Cost Engineering Manager leads a high-performing team of 3–7 engineers, sets vision for vehicle profitability through commodity activities, and drives cost-reduction initiatives across the Americas region during product development and post-production.

Responsibilities

• Hire, develop, train, and engage a team of cost engineers.
• Develop staff into subject-matter experts for their respective commodities.
• Identify and implement cost-reduction opportunities.
• Represent the department with a customer-focused approach, ensuring clear communication, collaboration, and SMART objectives.
• Provide timely, accurate, and transparent reporting to executives, customers, and peers.
• Challenge and support established budgets for purchased parts and vendor tooling on new-model car programs (minor and full model changes).
• Drive consistency and continuous improvement through cross-functional and intra-departmental projects.

Requirements

• 5+ years of direct experience, including at least 2 years in a management role.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Understanding of vehicle commodities, cost elements, part manufacturing processes, and strong financial acumen.

Qualifications (desired)

• MBA or other advanced degree.
• 3–7 years of experience in seating, soft-trim components, or cockpit modules.
• 3–7 years of experience in manufacturing processes such as plastic injection, steel stamping, die casting, painting, or chrome plating.
• Familiarity with estimating software or programming skills.
• Previous experience in a costing department at a supplier or OEM.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for senior executive audiences.
• Ability to work across functions and countries while influencing long-term business strategies.
• Strong analytical and data-driven problem-solving abilities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, mental health, and parental leave.
• Retirement savings plans.
• Employee Lease Program with discounts on lease vehicles.
• Vehicle Purchase Program (VPP).
• Tuition reimbursement and leadership training.
• Diverse career paths and cross-departmental opportunities.