Automotive Cost Estimator

Automotive Cost Estimator

Location:

Shelby Twp, Michigan

Employment Type:

Permanent, Mon–Fri

Pay Range: [$110K-$115K]

Perks & Benefits:
Health insurance, 401(k), PTO, Career growth opportunities, Collaborative team environment

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Automotive Cost Estimator to support automotive manufacturing programs and OEM quoting activities. In this role, you will develop accurate cost estimates, analyze customer RFQs, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive competitive pricing strategies. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with strong visibility into program management, purchasing, and operations.

• Review and analyze customer RFQs, engineering drawings, CAD data, and specifications for new and existing programs
• Develop detailed cost estimates for tooling, materials, labor, equipment utilization, logistics, and overhead
• Collaborate with engineering, purchasing, tooling, and program management teams to validate assumptions and cost drivers
• Prepare and maintain quotation packages, including cost sheets, pricing summaries, and supporting documentation
• Conduct benchmarking and competitor analysis to ensure accurate and competitive pricing
• Update and maintain cost models based on supplier quotes, commodity pricing, and manufacturing cycle times
• Support Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE) initiatives to identify cost-saving opportunities
• Interface with customers and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and provide cost justifications
• Maintain databases for standard times, tooling costs, material pricing, and manufacturing benchmarks
• Support program launches by comparing quoted versus actual costs and identifying improvement opportunities

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Business, Finance, or equivalent technical experience
• 5–10 years of experience in cost estimating, quoting, or program management within an automotive Tier-1 supplier environment
• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, including injection molding, stamping, machining, welding, painting, and assembly
• Knowledge of tooling costs, including injection molds, stamping dies, fixtures, and secondary equipment
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and cost analysis tools
• Ability to review CAD data and technical drawings
• Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• U.S. Citizenship required due to government contract requirements

• Experience supporting OEM customers within the automotive industry
• Background in Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE) initiatives
• Experience with manufacturing benchmarking and competitive cost analysis
• Prior exposure to program launches and cost reconciliation activities

• Opportunity for career advancement into Senior Estimator, Cost Engineering Manager, or Program Manager roles
• Exposure to cross-functional operations including engineering, purchasing, and manufacturing
• Collaborative and fast-paced work environment focused on continuous improvement and innovation