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Vehicle Cost Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Early-phase cost engineering estimates * Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach * Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help ...

Early-phase cost engineering estimates * Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach * Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help ...

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Vehicle Cost Engineer (Interior Systems) Location: Auburn Hills, MI (On-Site) Pay Rate: $43.08/hr Duration: 12-Month Contract Schedule: Full-Time, Day Shift Travel: Approximately 5-10% as needed ...

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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 ...

Provide Engineering support during vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) * Development of tooling costs for new programs. * Provide purchasing support during supplier ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

Provide Engineering support during vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) * Development of tooling costs for new programs. * Provide purchasing support during supplier ...

The cost engineer will have exposure to the next generation of automotive vehicles and propulsion systems while working with leading edge automotive experts and technologies. The Cost Engineer ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

The cost engineer will have exposure to the next generation of automotive vehicles and propulsion systems while working with leading edge automotive experts and technologies. TheCost Engineerfocuses ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

DESIGN TO COST: • Provide Engineering with support during the vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) • Release cost engineering estimate by reference or through bottom ...

Future roles in Purchasing Finance/Ops, Value Optimization/Engineering, Product Cost Standard (PCS), Total production cost (TPC), Vehicle Cost Coordination, Vehicle Cost Engineering * Exposure to ...

MeC offers his consultancy services in Cost Engineering to determinate the cycle times and costs of ... tooling for all vehicles; 2) cost evaluating and collaborating product change notices; 3) ...

MeC offers his consultancy services in Cost Engineering to determinate the cycle times and costs of ... tooling for all vehicles; 2) cost evaluating and collaborating product change notices; 3) ...

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Vehicle Cost Engineer information

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$5

$41

How much do vehicle cost engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle cost engineer in the United States is $41.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.35 and $41.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Vehicle Cost Engineer vs Vehicle Design Engineer?

AspectVehicle Cost EngineerVehicle Design Engineer
Primary FocusCost analysis, budgeting, and cost reduction strategies for vehiclesDesign, development, and engineering of vehicle components and systems
Required SkillsCost estimation, financial analysis, supply chain knowledgeCAD design, engineering principles, innovation in vehicle design
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, cost departments, supplier interactionsDesign studios, engineering labs, R&D departments
Common CertificationsNone specific, often requires engineering degreeEngineering degrees, CAD certifications

The Vehicle Cost Engineer primarily focuses on managing and reducing vehicle production costs through analysis and budgeting, while the Vehicle Design Engineer concentrates on creating and developing vehicle designs. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Cost Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Cost Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with cost estimation methods. Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) software, cost modeling tools, and advanced Excel functions is typically required, along with knowledge of manufacturing processes. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and suppliers. These skills are crucial for accurately forecasting costs, optimizing budgets, and ensuring the financial viability of vehicle development projects.

Is QC engineer a good career?

A QC (Quality Control) engineer plays a vital role in ensuring product quality through inspection, testing, and process improvement. The career offers stability, opportunities for specialization, and requires skills in testing tools and quality standards like ISO or Six Sigma. It can be a good career choice for those interested in quality management and technical problem-solving.

How does a Vehicle Cost Engineer typically collaborate with design and manufacturing teams during a vehicle development project?

Vehicle Cost Engineers play a critical role in cross-functional teams, working closely with both design and manufacturing departments throughout the vehicle development process. They provide cost estimates and analyses for different design options, helping to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. Regular meetings and open communication with engineers, suppliers, and procurement specialists are essential, as Vehicle Cost Engineers must ensure that proposed changes align with budgetary constraints and project timelines. This collaborative environment allows them to influence key decisions and contribute to the overall financial success of new vehicle launches.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior vehicle cost engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cost analysis and engineering management, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles in automotive or aerospace industries often offer such compensation, particularly in leadership positions or with specialized skills in cost modeling and project management.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What does a Vehicle Cost Engineer do?

A Vehicle Cost Engineer is responsible for analyzing and estimating the costs involved in designing, manufacturing, and assembling vehicles. They work closely with engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and finance teams to ensure that vehicles are produced within budget while meeting quality and performance standards. Their duties include evaluating material costs, labor expenses, and supplier quotes, as well as identifying cost-saving opportunities throughout the development process. Vehicle Cost Engineers play a crucial role in maximizing profitability and maintaining competitiveness in the automotive industry.

What engineers make 200,000 a year?

Senior vehicle cost engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cost analysis and financial modeling, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in automotive or aerospace industries often reach this salary level, particularly in senior or managerial roles with specialized skills and responsibilities.
More about Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs
What states have the most Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Cost Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,134 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Vehicle Cost Engineer

TRG

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an activity-based costing approach. This role works directly with bills of material, drawings and physical samples to understand how parts are made and to estimate the associated component, manufacturing and investment costs.
In this position, you will use established methods and processes to analyze costs, provide guidance to internal teams and support cost convergence activities. You will collaborate with global engineering, purchasing, finance and supplier teams to ensure competitive and transparent cost structures from early concept through serial production.
Multiple roles are being fulfilled within this job posting for all component scopes within the vehicle structure (Body, Interior, Chassis, Engine Adaptation, Electrical Components and Systems, Powertrain). Position fulfillment to utilize applicant background and experience as paired to internal role needs. Organization Success in this role requires curiosity, agility and a collaborative mindset within a fast-paced, global environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop component cost estimates for new programs, including:
  • Early-phase cost engineering estimates
  • Detailed "should-cost" calculations using a bottom-up manufacturing approach
  • Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets (Design-to-Cost)
  • Support purchasing during supplier negotiations by completing gap analyses of supplier cost breakdowns (Piece Price, ED&D, Tooling)
  • Contribute to benchmarking and value optimization activities, including serial life should-cost assessments
  • Collaborate closely with internal global team, Engineering, Buyers and Suppliers
  • Provide global cost comparison analysis in partnership with the broader Cost Engineering community

REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelors Degree in Engineering or a related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience in the automotive industry or related technical field
  • Strong English verbal and written skills to support role job key deliverables
  • Ability to manage a high volume of parts and varying levels of complexity
  • Proficiency with Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word
  • Ability to work effectively across multiple levels of the organization, functions and global regions

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
  • Familiarity with cost model structures and activity-based costing for component development
  • Experience in within one or multiple areas: Design Responsible Engineering, Manufacturing, Component Tool development or Component Purchasing

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