Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems

Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems (26 Openings) Auburn Hills (48326) Full-Time Contract (1 Year to Start) Pay Rate: $43.08/hour Day Shift (with flexibility for global collaboration) Travel: ~5–10% Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems Position Overview We are hiring 26 Senior Cost Engineers across multiple vehicle component domains to support global automotive programs. This role focuses on developing detailed cost estimates using an activity-based costing approach, working directly with bills of material (BOMs), engineering drawings, and physical components. You’ll collaborate with engineering, purchasing, finance, and suppliers to drive cost transparency and competitiveness from early concept through production. This is a high-impact opportunity within a fast-paced, global environment, ideal for candidates who are curious, analytical, and collaborative. Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems Key Responsibilities Develop component cost estimates for new vehicle programs Early-phase cost modeling Detailed should-cost analysis (bottom-up manufacturing approach) Support Design-to-Cost (DTC) initiatives during product development Partner with purchasing teams during supplier negotiations Conduct gap analysis on supplier quotes (piece price, tooling, ED&D) Perform benchmarking and value optimization studies Collaborate cross-functionally with global engineering, suppliers, and buyers Provide global cost comparison and analysis Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field 5+ years of relevant experience in: Automotive, manufacturing, tooling, design, or cost engineering Strong understanding of: Manufacturing processes, materials, and assembly flows Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment (automotive preferred) Ability to interpret: Engineering drawings, specifications, and BOMs Proficiency in: Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word Strong communication skills and ability to work across global teams Senior Cost Engineer – Automotive Components & Systems Preferred Qualifications Experience with activity-based costing models Background in: Design engineering Manufacturing Component tooling Purchasing Prior cost engineering experience (a plus, not required) Specialized Experience Areas (Multiple Openings) Electrical Systems Sensors, displays, clusters, batteries, infotainment PCB/PCBA manufacturing, semiconductors, wiring harnesses Automotive or high-volume electronics manufacturing Body Structures Stamping, welding, and assembly processes Structural panels, exterior components Glazing and sealing (highly valued) Interior Systems Injection molding, decorative finishes, soft-touch materials Trim, cockpit systems, cut & sew, plastic welding Propulsion Systems Profiles include: High Voltage Electronics (e-motors, inverters, onboard chargers) Electro-mechanical (pumps, throttle bodies) Engine Mechanical (blocks, heads, machining, casting) Driveline (axles, transfer cases) Chassis, Steering & Thermal Systems Suspension systems (castings, stampings, assemblies) Steering components (racks, columns, gears) HVAC & thermal systems (compressors, heat pumps) What Makes You Successful in This Role Strong technical curiosity about how things are made Ability to manage high part volume and complexity Comfort working in a global, cross-functional environment Analytical mindset with attention to detail Work Environment Standard day shift (with some flexibility for global collaboration across Europe) Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automotive programs