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Cost Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI (NOW HIRING)

The finance coordinator will be 1 out of a 4-person team (Team of 4) comprised of a Buyer, Engineer, Cost Engineer, and Finance Coordinator. In addition to validating ideas and building business ...

Cost Engineering/Analyst

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$74K - $166K/yr

The Cost Engineer/Cost Analyst for this position must have experience in more than one of the following: * BIW Stamping and sheet metal products * Assembly integration and optimization * All forms of ...

Experience in operating system software utilized by the Corporation (e.g Maximo, SAP R/3, SRM, BW) Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE) certification Proficient in Earned Value ...

The Cross Carline and Project Engineering Team is a critical part of the vehicle development with ... The Economics Manager is responsible for managing cost development (cost loops and assessments) for ...

The Cross Carline and Project Engineering Team is a critical part of the vehicle development with ... The Economics Manager is responsible for managing cost development (cost loops and assessments) for ...

Supporting the Vehicle Cost Manager (Serial Life) in executing PCS/TPC and program economics ... Partnering with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Purchasing, MGA/Plant, S&M, FP&A) to validate ...

The Cross Carline and Project Engineering Team is a critical part of the vehicle development with ... The Economics Manager is responsible for managing cost development (cost loops and assessments) for ...

Showing results 41-60

Cost Engineer information

See Rochester Hills, MI salary details

$41.9K

$89.3K

$128.4K

How much do cost engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost engineer in Rochester Hills, MI is $89,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,600.00 and $104,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cost engineer?

Cost Engineers are professionals who specialize in estimating, managing, and controlling the costs associated with engineering projects. They analyze project plans, materials, labor, and time requirements to develop accurate cost projections and budgets. Cost Engineers play a crucial role in helping organizations optimize resources, minimize expenses, and ensure projects are completed within financial constraints. Their expertise is essential in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy.

What does a cost engineer do?

As a cost engineer, you estimate the various costs associated with a project. You can perform your duties in a variety of settings and industries. Many cost engineers work in construction, manufacturing, or other industrial enterprises. In these positions, your responsibilities focus on using technical knowledge to forecast expenses for all phases of the project accurately. You help create a budget that includes time, materials, labor costs, and other factors. These other factors may include things like travel, taxes, and security needs. Cost engineers use specialized software to organize their cost figures and compile information for creating a budget.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cost engineer, and why are they important?

A Cost Engineer requires a solid background in engineering, mathematics, or finance, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with budgeting and cost estimation. Familiarity with cost management software (like Primavera or SAP), project management systems, and industry certifications such as AACE or PMP are typically important. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help Cost Engineers collaborate with project teams and stakeholders. These competencies are crucial to ensure project costs are accurately estimated, controlled, and aligned with business objectives.

How does a cost engineer typically collaborate with project managers and other departments during a project's lifecycle?

Cost Engineers work closely with project managers, procurement teams, and engineering staff to ensure project costs remain within budget and financial risks are minimized. They participate in regular project meetings, provide cost forecasts, and analyze potential cost overruns. Their role often involves reviewing vendor quotes, coordinating with schedulers to align budgets and timelines, and preparing detailed cost reports for stakeholders. This cross-functional collaboration is essential to proactively identify issues and support informed decision-making throughout the project.

What is the difference between Cost Engineer vs Cost Estimator?

AspectCost EngineerCost Estimator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, construction management, or related field; certifications like AACE International's CCP or CEOften holds a degree in construction management, engineering, or related; may also have certifications like AACE CCP
Work EnvironmentWorks on project cost control, budgeting, and financial analysis during project executionFocuses on preparing cost estimates for project bids and proposals
Industry UsageUsed throughout project lifecycle, especially in engineering and construction projectsPrimarily involved during project planning and bidding phases

While both roles involve cost analysis, a Cost Engineer manages ongoing project costs and controls, whereas a Cost Estimator focuses on initial cost projections for bids. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right career path or job role in the construction and engineering industries.

How much do cost engineers make in the US?

Cost engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals and those in senior roles earning over $120,000. Salaries vary based on industry, location, experience, and certifications such as AACE International's certifications.

What degree do you need to be a cost engineer?

A cost engineer typically needs a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, finance, or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or professional certifications such as the Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or Certified Estimating Professional (CEP). Strong analytical skills and experience with project management tools are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI?

The most popular types of Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI?

For Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI are:

What cities near Rochester Hills, MI are hiring for Cost Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rochester Hills, MI with the most Cost Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cost Engineer job openings in Rochester Hills, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,328 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Advanced Cost Engineering & Value Optimization Lead

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 45 rated automakers


Job description

Advanced Cost Engineering & Value Optimization Lead supports vehicle programs by driving cost optimized design decisions from early concept through hardware and software readiness. This role partners closely with Advanced Design Engineering, Product Development, and Cost Engineering to embed Design to Cost and Value Engineering principles directly into vehicle architecture, system design, and component development.

Operating within the Cost Engineering & Total Production Cost organization, the specialist ensures that cost targets, functional value, and design intent are aligned early, enabling competitive vehicles without sacrificing performance, quality, or customer value.

Key Responsibilities

Design to Cost & Value Engineering Leadership

  • Lead Design to Cost and Value Engineering activities from early Advanced phases through Tooling KickOff (TKOM), ensuring cost is treated as a design parameter, not a post design constraint.
  • Identify high‑impact commodities, systems, and architectures for Value Engineering loops (Loop 1 & Loop 2), focusing on functional optimization, design simplification, and material/process efficiency.
  • Facilitate cross-functional Design to Cost workshops that generate actionable design changes tied to function, performance, manufacturability, and supplier capability.
  • Drive Value Analysis activities, challenging over‑design, redundancy, and cost drivers while preserving customer‑relevant features.

Design Convergence & Technical Collaboration

  • Partner with Advanced Project Engineering, Product Development Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Suppliers to translate Value Engineering proposals into feasible design solutions.
  • Actively challenge designs to improve cost‑to‑function ratios, including architecture choices, part integration, material selection, tooling strategy, and manufacturing processes.
  • Support design convergence by ensuring cost‑driven trade studies and alternatives are evaluated early and documented for leadership decision‑making.

Cost Targeting & Benchmark‑Driven Design

  • Support development of Total Production Cost (TPC) targets based on competitive benchmarking, reference vehicles, and “Best in Class” architectures.
  • Translate competitive benchmarks into clear, component level and system level cost guidance for engineering teams.
  • Promote a value based benchmarking mindset, focusing on how competitors achieve similar or better functionality at lower cost.

Program Economics & Decision Support

  • Collaborate with the Project Economics Manager to:
    • Monitor Design to Cost savings and track Value Engineering implementation.
    • Provide cost based insights for Chief Vehicle Engineer arbitration and major design decisions.
    • Support project convergence on vehicle TPC and vendor tooling investments.
  • Bring structured cost and value insights to stakeholders to provoke early action and informed design trade‑offs.

Basic Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related education field(Degrees in Accounting, Finance, or Business considered with strong engineering exposure)
  • A minimum of 8 years of experience in the automotive industry, advanced manufacturing or related industries
  • Strong understanding of automotive systems, vehicle architectures, and production processes
  • Proven ability to lead cross‑functional, technical discussions and influence design outcomes
  • Data driven mindset with strong analytical skills and attention to detail
  • Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook, and Word

Preferred Qualifcations: 

  • Direct experience in Design to Cost, Value Engineering, and Value Analysis
  • Experience linking functional requirements to cost drivers
  • Background in vehicle cost, product engineering, or manufacturing engineering
  • Ability to synthesize complex technical and cost data into clear recommendations for leadership

Our Benefits — Designed with You in Mind

Comprehensive Health & Well-being Coverage
From your very first day, you’ll have access to medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage — ensuring you and your family stay healthy and protected.

Generous Paid Time Off
We believe in work-life balance. That’s why we offer: 17+ paid holidays, including shut-down from December 24th through New Years Day every year. Vacation, float & wellbeing days, sick time and fully paid parental leave when your family needs you most.

Competitive Retirement Savings Plans
We help you plan for the future with:

  • An employer match on contributions to your 401k, Roth, and Catch-Up plans
  • An employer contribution, even if you don’t contribute

Income Protection & Insurance Options
Benefit from included and optional disability, life, and other insurance programs — because your peace of mind matters.

Company Vehicle Lease Program
Eligible employees and their immediate families can enjoy company vehicle lease options with included insurance, maintenance, and unlimited mileage. Plus, take advantage of exclusive discounts on Stellantis products.

Family Building Benefit
We proudly support all paths to parenthood- including fertility and infertility treatments, adoption services, and gestational surrogacy.

Support for Your Growth and Giving Back
We believe in investing in your future and your passions:

  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Student loan refinancing programs
  • 18 paid volunteer hours each year to make a difference in your community

And so much more!
When you join us, you’re not just building a career — you’re joining a company that supports you, inside and outside of work.


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