Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Cost Estimating and NPI

Location: Trenton

For more than 100 years, Modine has solved the toughest thermal management challenges for mission-critical applications. Our purpose of Engineering a Cleaner, Healthier World means we are always evolving our portfolio of technologies to provide the latest heating, cooling, and ventilation solutions. Through the hard work of more than 11,000 employees worldwide, our Climate Solutions and Performance Technologies segments advance our purpose with systems that improve air quality, reduce energy and water consumption, lower harmful emissions, enable cleaner running vehicles, and use environmentally friendly refrigerants.

Modine is a global company headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin (U.S.), with operations in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. For more information about Modine, visit

Position Description

We are seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer with strong cost estimating expertise to support our commercial vehicle manufacturing operations. This role is critical in ensuring new and existing products are cost-competitive, manufacturable, and aligned with plant capabilities.

You will play a key role at the intersection of manufacturing engineering, estimating, and product development, providing detailed cost analysis, driving process improvements, and supporting new product launches.

Key Responsibilities

* Develop detailed cost estimates for new product launches and engineering changes, including labor, materials, capital equipment, and overhead

* Partner closely with estimating, product engineering, and commercial teams to ensure accurate quoting and competitive pricing for commercial vehicle programs

* Analyze cost drivers and manufacturing assumptions, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and margin improvement

* Support RFQ/RFP activities with manufacturing cost models and feasibility assessments

* Evaluate make vs. buy decisions, capital investments, and process alternatives based on cost impact

* Develop new manufacturing processes and improve existing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost performance

* Design or direct the design of tooling, fixtures, and automated equipment

* Lead equipment installation, validation, and process capability development

* Implement lean manufacturing principles, value stream improvements, and waste reduction initiatives

* Support APQP processes for successful product launches

* Manage multiple projects, ensuring on-time and on-budget execution

* Coordinate AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) requests with strong cost justification

* Investigate production issues and implement data-driven corrective actions

* Collaborate with plant teams in Trenton and Joplin to ensure manufacturing readiness and cost alignment

* Support value analysis/value engineering (VA/VE) initiatives to reduce cost while maintaining quality

Required Education & Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Electrical, or related field)

* 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or cost estimating within a manufacturing environment (automotive or commercial vehicle preferred)

* Demonstrated experience with cost modeling, estimating, or quoting processes

* Strong understanding of manufacturing cost structures (labor, materials, capital, overhead)

* Ability to independently manage multiple projects and drive results

* Experience coordinating AFE/capital projects with financial justification

* Proficiency in CAD tools (Solid Edge, Solid Works, AutoCAD, or similar)

* Strong working knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles

* Experience with manufacturing equipment, tooling, and automation systems

* Familiarity with APQP and new product launch processes

* Strong mechanical aptitude, particularly with automated manufacturing systems

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience in commercial vehicle, heavy-duty, or automotive manufacturing

* Background in thermal systems, heat exchangers, or metals fabrication

* Exposure to ERP systems and cost estimating software/tools

* Experience working in a multi-site manufacturing environment

Why Choose Modine?

Health & Well-being:

* Day One

* Competitive health, dental &…