Senior Cost Estimation Engineer

Senior Cost Estimation Engineer Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Cost Estimation Engineer to develop accurate should-cost models, perform component cost benchmarking, support sourcing and negotiation activities, and identify cost reduction opportunities across automotive Tier-1 components. The role requires deep understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, electronics, tooling, and automotive supply chains. Key Responsibilities 1. Should-Cost Modeling & Cost Analysis Develop detailed bottom-up cost models for automotive components and systems. Estimate material, manufacturing, labor, overhead, tooling, logistics, and supplier margins. Conduct should-cost analysis for: Electronics (PCBA, ECUs, Sensors) Wire Harnesses Busbars Castings & Forgings Plastic Injection Molded Parts Stampings & Sheet Metal Components E-Mobility Components ADAS & Infotainment Systems Validate supplier quotations using cost engineering methodologies. 2. Manufacturing Process Expertise Perform cost estimation based on understanding of: Mechanical Components Die Casting Sand Casting Forging CNC Machining Sheet Metal Stamping Deep Drawing Welding & Assembly Surface Treatments Electronics PCB Fabrication SMT Assembly Wave/Reflow Soldering Semiconductor Packaging Sensor Manufacturing Plastics & Rubber Injection Molding Overmolding Compression Molding Extrusion Processes 3. Supplier Cost Benchmarking Benchmark global and regional supplier costs. Compare supplier quotations against market intelligence. Support negotiations using fact-based cost breakdowns. Create target cost models and savings opportunities. Analyze manufacturing footprint and localization opportunities. 4. Market Intelligence & Commodity Tracking Monitor raw material trends: Steel Aluminum Copper Engineering Plastics Semiconductor Components Track labor rates, energy costs, freight, and regional manufacturing economics. Support annual cost reduction and budget planning activities. 5. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with: Procurement Engineering Supplier Quality Program Management Finance Teams Support RFQ, sourcing decisions, and design-to-cost initiatives. Participate in technical reviews and supplier discussions. 6. Digital Cost Engineering Develop automated costing models and databases. Maintain historical cost repositories. Support AI/analytics-based costing and benchmarking initiatives. Prepare executive dashboards and management reports.