Cost Estimator

About This Role

This role involves preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates and customer quotes for new and existing automotive products within a manufacturing environment. The Cost Estimator will develop comprehensive cost models, analyze Bills of Materials, and support pricing strategy, competitive bid development, and profitability analysis.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates and customer quotes for new and existing automotive products
• Develop comprehensive cost models including material, labor, overhead, tooling, and capital investment requirements
• Partner with engineering and program management during new product launches to validate cost assumptions and feasibility
• Analyze Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings, cycle times, and manufacturing processes to ensure accurate cost projections
• Lead cost analysis support for RFQs, including full cost breakdowns, margin analysis, and pricing recommendations
• Evaluate supplier quotes and material costs to ensure alignment with cost targets
• Identify cost drivers and provide recommendations for cost reduction and value engineering initiatives
• Support make-versus-buy analysis and capital justification reviews
• Maintain cost databases, assumptions, and estimating tools to ensure consistency and accuracy
• Assist with post-award reviews to compare estimated vs. actual costs and refine future estimating models
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership to support pricing strategy and bid decisions

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in cost estimating, product costing, or quoting within a manufacturing environment
• Proven experience supporting RFQs and new product launches
• Strong understanding of manufacturing cost structures (material, labor, overhead, tooling)
• Advanced Excel skills (cost models, pivot tables, scenario analysis)
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, JD Edwards, or similar)
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in cost estimating, product costing, or quoting within a manufacturing environment

Nice to Have

• Automotive industry experience strongly preferred
• Automotive Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier experience
• Experience with value engineering and cost reduction initiatives
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles

Skills

* Required skills