Demo

Vehicle Cost Engnieer

Technology Resource Group
Auburn, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 5/11/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/15/2026
The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an activity-based costing approach. This role works directly with bills of material, drawings and physical samples to understand how parts are made and to estimate the associated component, manufacturing and investment costs.

In this position, you will use established methods and processes to analyze costs, provide guidance to internal teams and support cost convergence activities. You will collaborate with global engineering, purchasing, finance and supplier teams to ensure competitive and transparent cost structures from early concept through serial production.

Multiple roles are being fulfilled within this job posting for all component scopes within the vehicle structure (Body, Interior, Chassis, Engine Adaptation, Electrical Components and Systems, Powertrain). Position fulfillment to utilize applicant background and experience as paired to internal role needs. Organization Success in this role requires curiosity, agility and a collaborative mindset within a fast-paced, global environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop component cost estimates for new programs, including:
  • Early-phase cost engineering estimates
  • Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach
  • Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets (Design-to-Cost)
  • Support purchasing during supplier negotiations by completing gap analyses of supplier cost breakdowns (Piece Price, ED&D, Tooling)
  • Contribute to benchmarking and value optimization activities, including serial life should-cost assessments
  • Collaborate closely with internal global team, Engineering, Buyers and Suppliers
  • Provide global cost comparison analysis in partnership with the broader Cost Engineering community

REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelors Degree in Engineering or a related technical field
  • 5 years of experience in the automotive industry or related technical field
  • Strong English verbal and written skills to support role job key deliverables
  • Ability to manage a high volume of parts and varying levels of complexity
  • Proficiency with Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word
  • Ability to work effectively across multiple levels of the organization, functions and global regions

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
  • Familiarity with cost model structures and activity-based costing for component development
  • Experience in within one or multiple areas: Design Responsible Engineering, Manufacturing, Component Tool development or Component Purchasing

IND1

Salary.com Estimation for Vehicle Cost Engnieer in Auburn, MI
$81,218 to $98,753
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