Automotive Cost Estimator

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Automotive Cost Estimator to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing cost estimates, analyzing customer RFQs (Requests for Quotation), and supporting OEM quoting activities for plastic, metal, and assembly components. This role requires strong technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, tooling, and supply chain dynamics in the automotive sector.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review and analyze customer RFQs, drawings, CAD data, and specifications for new and existing programs.
• Develop accurate cost breakdowns for tooling, raw materials, labor, equipment utilization, secondary operations, logistics, and overheads.
• Collaborate with engineering, tooling, purchasing, and program management teams to validate assumptions and cost drivers.
• Prepare and maintain quotation packages including detailed cost sheets, pricing summaries, and supporting documentation.
• Conduct benchmarking and competitor analysis to ensure competitive and realistic pricing.
• Track and update cost models based on commodity prices, cycle times, and supplier quotes.
• Support VA/VE (Value Analysis / Value Engineering) activities to identify cost reduction opportunities.
• Interface directly with OEM customers and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and present cost justifications.
• Maintain a database of standard times, material costs, tooling costs, and manufacturing benchmarks.
• Support program launches by reconciling quoted vs. actual costs, identifying variances, and feeding lessons learned back into future estimates.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or Business/Finance; equivalent technical experience may be considered.
• 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 (injection molding, stamping, machining, painting, welding, assembly, etc.).
• Knowledge of tooling costs (injection molds, stamping dies, fixtures, and secondary equipment).
• Proficiency in Excel and cost analysis tools; CAD data review capability preferred.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with cross-functional teams and customers.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced quoting environment.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Attention to Detail - ability to identify cost drivers and hidden assumptions.
• Analytical Thinking - skilled in breaking down complex cost structures.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration - working closely with engineering, purchasing, and finance.
• Customer Focus - understanding OEM expectations and competitive market conditions.
• Problem Solving & Initiative - identifying cost saving opportunities and risk factors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, talk, hear, and walk. Occasionally bend, squat, reach, twist/turn and lift up to 10 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include ability to adjust focus.